Evaluation of a Novel Communication Application From Nurses' Perspectives.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Informatics
• Healthcare Technology
• Clinical Communication

Background:

• Effective communication is crucial in intensive care units (ICUs).
• Patients with conditions affecting verbalization require alternative communication methods.
• The Speak for Myself application aims to bridge communication gaps for non-verbal patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the usability of the Speak for Myself computer application from the perspective of registered nurses (RNs).
• To explore nurses' experiences and opinions regarding the application's effectiveness in facilitating patient communication.

Main Methods:

• A one-group exploratory survey design was employed.
• Twelve RNs from ICUs in two South Florida hospitals participated.
• Inclusion criteria specified patients over 18, able to write/speak English, with specific sedation-agitation scores, and unable to verbalize needs.

Main Results:

• 41.6% of nurses reported improved patient communication using Speak for Myself.
• 100% of nurses indicated willingness to use the application again.
• Nurses provided suggestions for the future development of the application.

Conclusions:

• The Speak for Myself application demonstrates usability and potential value in improving communication for non-verbal ICU patients.
• Further development and testing are warranted based on positive nurse feedback and suggestions.
• This study contributes to understanding the role of assistive technology in enhancing patient-nurse interactions.