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Published on: March 16, 2015
Nursing perceptions toward Deaf and DeafBlind individuals: a cross-sectional study
Lorena Šebrek1, Marijana Neuberg1, Tomislav Meštrović1
1Department of Nursing, University North, Ul. 104. brigade 3, 42000 Varaždin, Republic of Croatia.
Nursing students demonstrate greater motivation and more positive opinions towards learning Croatian Sign Language and supporting patients who are Deaf and DeafBlind compared to employed nurses. This highlights the need for integrated sign language training in nursing education.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare Communication
- Nursing Education
- Audiology
Background:
- Communication barriers significantly impede healthcare access for Deaf and DeafBlind individuals.
- Lack of sign language proficiency among healthcare professionals compromises holistic patient care.
- Understanding attitudes and motivation within the nursing profession is crucial for improving communication with Deaf and DeafBlind patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the motivation to learn Croatian Sign Language (CSL) between employed nursing professionals and nursing students.
- To assess differences in knowledge and opinions regarding Deaf and DeafBlind individuals between these two groups.
- To identify potential areas for improvement in nursing education concerning communication with the Deaf and DeafBlind community.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study design was employed.
- Questionnaires were administered to both employed nursing professionals and nursing students in a single Croatian region.
- Statistical analyses, including non-parametric tests, were used to compare responses between the groups.
Main Results:
- Nursing students exhibited significantly more positive opinions towards Deaf and DeafBlind individuals compared to employed nursing professionals (p < .001).
- First-year Master's nursing students reported the most favorable opinions (p = .019).
- Nursing students displayed a statistically significant greater motivation to learn sign language (p = .015).
Conclusions:
- Findings underscore the need to incorporate sign language training and enhance communication skills within nursing curricula.
- Educational interventions may foster more positive attitudes and greater motivation to communicate with Deaf and DeafBlind patients.
- Addressing these communication gaps is essential for equitable healthcare delivery to individuals with hearing impairments.
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