Patient Communication in the ICU

A summary

The lecture duration is 24min.

0.5 CPD Points, 0.5 CEUs, 0.5 CME credits approval pending.
Accredited by CPDUK, CBRN and Provider Pending.

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Amy Freeman-Sanderson
Senior Lecturer and a Certified Practicing Speech Pathologist, University of Technology, Sydney, Australia
Lecture Summary

Communication is pivotal for patients to actively participate in their care.  The ability to communicate effectively is often altered in ICU for several reasons including physiological and environmental reasons. Communication breakdown can be frequent in this setting, and all members of the multidisciplinary team have a role in optimising patient communication. This talk explores the aetiology and management of communication in the ICU environment. Specifically, communication function and different methods of communication are defined.  The causes and consequences of altered communication function, with reference to the literature are also discussed. Finally, management strategies and tips to restore effective communication are discussed.

Target Audience

Critical Care Doctors
Critical Care Nurses

Learning Objectives:

Upon completion of this activity, you should be able to:

  • Understand the nature and consequences of communication difficulty in ICU
  • Describe the different modes and methods of communication
  • Define how to optimise communication for and with patients