Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 18, 2025
Assessment of Audio-Tactile Sensory Substitution Training in Participants with Profound Deafness Using the Event-Related Potential Technique
Published on: September 7, 2022
Diagnostic radiography students' perceptions towards communication with service users who are deaf or hearing
1Radiology, Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Hospital, East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust, Kent, United Kingdom.
Introduction:
Communication issues can arise when deaf or hearing impaired individuals access National Health Service (NHS) radiology services if reasonable adjustments and inclusive services are not facilitated. This study aims to assess student diagnostic radiographers' attitudes and communication experience with service users who are deaf or hearing impaired.
Methods:
An anonymous online survey was conducted on UK undergraduate diagnostic radiography students from a single university. The sample size of students invited to participate in the study was n = 156. The measurement scales and questions included quantitative attitudinal 5-point Likert and qualitative free-response questions. Statistical analysis included the Kruskal-Wallis H test, Mann-Whitney U test, pairwise comparisons of variables and thematic coding of qualitative data.
Results:
n=48 students responded. The student's perceptions of communication experiences with deaf or hearing-impaired patients were positive (72.9%) but depended on the amount of experience whilst on clinical placement (first-year students had less clinical placement experience than years two and three). Overall confidence in communicating was 47.9% with no difference by gender (p = 0.87) but variance by age category (p = 0.03), with the 18-29 group less confident and first-year students having less experience to draw upon for responses (p = 0.04). Confidence in gaining consent (56.3%) demonstrated no variation by gender (p = 0.75) or cohort (p = 0.54), but variance by age category (p = 0.03) due to difference in unmatched sample sizes. Participants elaborated on positive service adaptations that can be facilitated for service users who are deaf or hearing impaired and issues that caused negative communication experiences.
Conclusion:
The study has produced data on the experience of student radiographers interacting with an understudied service user group who are deaf or hearing impaired. Qualitative responses discussed a range of resources to assist clinical practice communication and recommendations for further improvements and training opportunities.
Implications For Practice:
The findings of this study can help to inform future research, policy, practice, and educational training.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:25Role of Communication in the Nursing Process I: Assessment and Diagnosis
The nursing process considers the patient's emotional and physical well-being. The process can be repeated or stopped at any point if judged essential. Assessment is the first step in the nursing...
01:21Barriers to Effective Communication II
Cultural barriers:
Differences in values, beliefs, religion, knowledge, and tradition can significantly impact communication. Awareness of nonverbal cues is critical, especially when conversing with a patient from a different culture. What appears appropriate in one culture may be inappropriate in another.
Semantic barriers:
As a result of their tendency to use...
01:30Radiological Investigation I: X-ray and CT
01:18Interdisciplinary Care: The Health Care Team-II
Physical Therapist
A physical therapist (PT) aims to restore function or prevent additional impairment in a patient following an injury or disease. Massage, heat, cold, water, sonar waves, exercises, and electrical stimulation are some treatments used by PTs to treat...
01:25Role of Communication in the Nursing Process II: Planning and Implementation
01:08Role of Communication in the Nursing Process III: Evaluation and Documentation