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Augmentative and Alternative Communication in Ventilated Patients: A Scoping Review
Sara Pina1, Madalena Canellas1, Rita Prazeres1
1Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Lisboa, Portugal.
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) enhances communication for ventilated adults in Intensive Care Units (ICUs). While various AAC strategies exist, no single tool is universally most effective.
Area of Science:
- Critical Care Medicine
- Rehabilitation Science
- Communication Disorders
Background:
- Mechanical ventilation in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) often impedes verbal communication.
- Effective communication is crucial for patient well-being, treatment adherence, and reducing ICU-related distress.
Purpose of the Study:
- To map the benefits of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) for adults requiring mechanical ventilation in ICUs.
- To identify the specific AAC strategies employed in this patient population.
Main Methods:
- A Scoping Review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute Protocol.
- Literature search performed across PubMed, EBSCOhost, and B-On databases (October-November 2018).
- Included studies published between 2013-2018 in English and Portuguese.
Main Results:
- Initial search yielded 61 references.
- Seven articles met the inclusion criteria for detailed analysis.
- AAC is recognized for improving communication, with diverse methods and tools described.
Conclusions:
- Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is a valuable strategy for ventilated ICU patients.
- Current literature describes various AAC methods and tools.
- Further research is needed to determine the most effective AAC tools for this population.
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