Effectiveness of augmented alternative communication method on physiological parameters among conscious mechanical ventilation patients

Abstract

Background: Conscious mechanical ventilation patients in intensive care unit experience intense anxiety due to inability to communicate which might also affect their physiological parameters. Aim: to evaluate the effectiveness of augmented alternative communication method on physiological parameters (heart rate, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, respiratory rate and SpO2-oxygen saturation) among conscious MV patients in the ICU. Methodology/Design: Quantitative evaluative approach with quasi experimental (pretest, posttest with control group) research design was adopted in the present study.120 conscious mechanical ventilated patients were randomized into two groups, experimental and conventional care group (60 in each group).The experimental group, mechanical ventilation patients who were awake, aware and responsive to verbal communication was served by a simple assistive communication tool ( augmented alternative communication) for continuous three days. In contrast, only routine or usual nursing communication practice or standard care was provided to the control group. The socio-demographic data, clinical profile, communication difficulties self-evaluation questionnaire, patient satisfaction self-evaluation questionnaire, self-rating Face anxiety scale and Physiological parameters was used to measure study parameters.