High-Tech Augmentative and Alternative Communication in a Burn Patient With Voicelessness: A Case Study

Loss of speech due to mechanical ventilation is common among patients admitted to intensive care. This condition, often referred to as voicelessness, can generate negative emotions such as frustration and anger. Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) techniques are useful for facilitating communication, but their use can be complex in patients with extensive burns. This case study describes the use of a high-tech AAC system based on a motion sensor in an adolescent with second- and third-degree burns covering 60% of the total body surface area, requiring both invasive and non-invasive mechanical ventilation. Due to injuries to their hands and neuromuscular weakness, the patient was unable to use conventional low- or high-tech AAC devices. The use of the motion-sensor-based AAC system enabled the patient to communicate specific needs and formulate complex sentences, facilitating individualised nursing care. The patient and family reported high satisfaction with the quality of care, while nurses noted a positive impact on the care relationship without increasing their workload. This case highlights the importance of personalised communication strategies in critically ill burn patients and suggests that the adoption of appropriate AAC systems may reduce missed nursing care and improve emotional and care outcomes.