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CE: Original Research: Understanding the Hospital Experience of Older Adults with Hearing Impairment
Amy Funk1, Christina Garcia, Tiara Mullen
1Amy Funk is an assistant professor in the School of Nursing at Illinois Wesleyan University, Bloomington. Christina Garcia is an associate professor and Tiara Mullen is a staff nurse at Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing, Peoria, IL. Contact author: Amy Funk, afunk@iwu.edu. The authors and planners have disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise.
Abstract:
: Background: Older hospitalized adults with hearing impairment are vulnerable to adverse outcomes. These patients are at risk for being labeled confused, experiencing a loss of control, experiencing heightened fear and anxiety, and misunderstanding the plan of care.
Objective:
This qualitative study sought to assess the hospital experience of older adults with hearing impairment in order to formulate suggestions for improving nursing care.
Methods:
Open-ended interviews were conducted with eight participants, ages 70 to 95 years, who were identified as having a hearing impairment and were admitted as inpatients to a midwestern medical center.
Results:
Through data analysis, three common themes emerged: health care communication difficulties, passivity and vulnerability, and frustration with family.
Conclusions:
Nurses will benefit from having a deeper understanding of the hospital experience of this vulnerable population. Efforts to address their needs can be accomplished through the following nursing actions: assess, accommodate, educate, empower, and advocate.
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