Perceptions of deaf subjects about communication in Primary Health Care.

Alane Santana Santos,Arlindo José Freire Portes

doi:10.1590/1518-8345.2612.3127

Alane Santana Santos, Arlindo José Freire Portes

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1590/1518-8345.2612.3127

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Abstract

ABSTRACTObjective:to analyze the perceptions of deaf individuals about the communication process with health professionals of the state of Rio de Janeiro. Methods:cross-sectional observational study. Data were collected through the application of a questionnaire with quantitative and qualitative questions to 121 deaf adults. Objective responses were studied descriptively through frequency tables and analyzed by inferential statistics and logistic regression. The data from the open questions were analyzed through content analysis. Results:the lack of interpreters and the lack of use of the Brazilian Sign Language by professionals were perceived as the main communication barriers. In turn, the presence of companions who are listeners (73%) and the use of mime/gestures (68%) were among the strategies most used by the deaf. The majority of deaf people reported insecurity in consultations, and those who best understood their diagnosis and treatment were the bilingual deaf (p = 0.0347) and the deaf who used oral communication (p = 0.0056). Conclusion:communication with the professionals was facilitated when the deaf people had a companion or when they used mimics and gestures. Sign language was neglected, despite the fact that the provision of care to the deaf by professionals trained to use this language is guaranteed in the legislation.

Highlights

Comprehensive health care, with a view to autonomy of the subject, is one of the pillars of primary care
It is noteworthy that, generally, the cultural identity of the deaf community is not taken into account; deaf people are devaluated as individuals and have their rights to equality in health care disrespected(14)
The absence of caregivers and the lack of professional preparation were pointed as the main motivators for the deaf adults not to seek care in health services, according to studies conducted in Paraíba and Rio Grande do Sul(15-16)

Summary

Introduction

Comprehensive health care, with a view to autonomy of the subject, is one of the pillars of primary care. It is, imperative that communication between users and professionals occurs in a satisfactorily way in oder to preserve quality of care(1-2). It is known that the impairment caused by hearing loss, in terms of perception of sounds, can negatively impact people because of the importance of this ability to the development of communication, speech and language(4). It is important to highlight the difference between hearing impairment and deafness, according to the Brazilian legislation. Impairment is linked to hearing loss, while the deaf subject is perceived based on an identity, characterized by the use of sign language(5)

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