Lesson's Learned: Deaf Culture
Before I talk about the Deaf Culture, I thought it would be important to clarify some common misconceptions regarding the definitions of hearing function. The word "Deaf" refers to individuals who have little to no hearing function. This may be caused by genetic or environmental factors, injury, and disease. Many deaf individuals communicate with the ASL language (American Sign Language.) Another term to know is "hard of hearing" which refers to people who have not lost complete hearing function and can still hear with mild to moderate difficulty. Individuals who are hard of hearing may be able to communicate with sign language and or the spoken language. Lastly it is important to note, that the term "hearing impaired" may be considered offensive when used in describing Deaf and hard of hearing people. Many Deaf or hard of hearing individuals do not appreciate being labeled as impaired, thus it is very important to conscience of how we describe others.
The Deaf Culture is comprised of individuals within the Deaf community who share similar beliefs, values, norms, heritage, language, attitudes, and traditions. Individuals who identify within this community may choose to be apart of it regardless of their hearing status. However, the community is commonly comprised of Deaf and hard of hearing individuals, as well as family members and people who work with Deaf individuals. The World Federation of the Deaf explained, "Deaf people have their own local, national and international organizations around the world, which might be social, athletic, scholarly, religious, and/or literary." People within this culture have built a great community of unity, support, and friendship.
#nursingbyCOURTNEY: How to apply this knowledge to provide better care to patients
Within nursing school we have been taught effective communication critical to becoming a good nurse. It's important because it help insure safety for ourselves as well as our patients. We've also learned how if there are gaps within communication poor outcomes can result. While caring for Deaf patients there may be barriers to effective communication, thus resulting in possible patient dissatisfaction and negative outcomes. I believe because nurses do not receive proper training on how to communicate with Deaf patients there continues to be ineffective communication. As a result, our Deaf patients may suffer the consequences due to a lack of understanding of their exact needs. Ultimately, I think it's up to us to do our best to provide adequate communication to our Deaf and hard of hearing patients.
Courtney's "Two-Cent's"
Honestly, I believe this culture is one that gets disregarded quickly. Most individuals don't think twice about the Deaf Culture and their needs. I guiltily fall into this category of cultural neglect. Until this week I didn't know Deaf was considered a culture! So this week I was very excited to get the opportunity to learn more about this culture and how I can be more aware. In all my research, I have noticed the lack of public and professional awareness of the Deaf Culture and community. Yet, another reason I am grateful for this class, and how it has helped me learn and becoming more aware of all the cultures out there! I think it's important more people become aware of this culture to be more mindful of Deaf individuals. Although bringing awareness may not entirely solve the neglect these individuals receive, it may help health professionals improve their approach to care and communication. In my research, I have found that getting an interpreter is one of the most helpful tools to provide better communication. Resorting to writing and giving handouts may be considered offensive and ineffective. As we care for Deaf or hard of hearing patients, we need to be mindful of their cultural practices and make sure they do not feel labeled as "impaired" in our approach of care.
References:
Defintions taken from: https://www.deaftec.org/content/deaf-definitions
https://wfdeaf.org/our-work/focus-areas/deaf-culture
Pictures taken from: http://www.tlcdeaf.org/
https://www.partnershipfca.com/programs/deaf-services/
https://www.dccc.edu/news/2015/08/06/first-its-kind-program-trains-deaf-students-work-nurse-aides-deaf-elderly-residents
No comments:
Post a Comment