Decision-making processes in augmentative communication

The potential population for augmentative communication is large, yet no objective assessment criteria exist. This article provides the clinician with a series of matrices designed to facilitate assessment decision making and implementation of augmentative communication. The first matrix addresses the appropriateness of augmentative communication. In the matrix the clinician will find an indepth, systematic decision-making procedure for aiding in the choice of augmentative procedures as primary or complementary methods of communication. The second matrix provides the clinician with information on modes of augmentative communication. These modes include manual systems, communication boards, and electronic devices. The third matrix focuses on code information. Particular attention is given to visual and manual codes. Together, the matrices provide the clinician with an objective procedure for evaluating and organizing available clinical information on nonspeaking clients.