Strategies used by nurses and tracheostomized users in communication: systematic review

Abstract

Introduction: In Europe 20% of the working population is somehow involved in shift work. Studies show that it can have a negative impact on workers' health and well-being, with direct consequences on performance and efficiency [1]. Nurses are among health professionals with a higher risk of burnout [2], which can negatively affect their alertness, attention and concentration, with direct consequences on patient's health [3]. The aim of this study is to identify relevant factors regarding the impact of shift work in nurses' health and well-being. Materials and methods: This study is a literature review which consists of a narrative and comprehensive analysis of the literature [4]. Articles were search in the following databases: Academic Google, Scientific Electronic Library Onine (SciELO) and EBSCO Host. Keywords were defined according to the acronym PCC (Population, Concept, Context): P: nurs à ; C: burnout; C: shift work à ). Inclusion criteria were: articles in Portuguese and English, available in full-text, published between 2013 and 2018. The review was conducted in parallel by two independent researchers. 10 articles were selected for final review. Data were extracted and synthesised using an information systematisation table.Results: The articles allowed to identify the impact of shift work on nurses physical (interrupts the circadian rhythm, affects sleep quality, causes fatigue, gastrointestinal, neuropsychological, cardiovascular, and musculoskeletal disorders), mental (depersonalization, cynicism, aggression and frustration), and social dimensions (deterioration of family relationships and social life). Although most studies mention the impact of burnout on nurses professional performance and quality of care, no details are provided on the specific consequences for healthcare consumers, or for the health system itself. Discussion and conclusions: Although there's a widespread concern about the impact of shift work on nurse's health, few studies mention the consequences of burnout on nurse's performance and on the quality of care. Strategies to minimise the impact of burnout are superficially addressed and reduced to the intervention of occupational health [5]. Developing, testing, and implementing intervention programs to reduce burnout may produce a variety of beneficial effects. Burnout appears to be an important indicator for healthcare leaders at both strategical and tactical level, to track and solve quality of care issues particularly in the current context of nursing shortage [6].

Longing for a Voice

“…3,16 In another systematic review, it was found that caregivers try to speak slowly, use facial expressions, and use verbal and nonverbal communication techniques such as writing, reading, and explanatory cards when communicating with their patients. 15 In accordance with the literature, the caregivers in our study stated that they used verbal and nonverbal communication techniques such as gestures and facial expressions, writing, showing letters, eye contact, and touch to communicate with their patients. Although all these verbal and nonverbal methods can be used when communicating with tracheostomy patients, it may be challenging for the patients in terms of the required coordination and physical and mental strength.…”

“…14 Researchers have recommended using verbal and nonverbal communication techniques to address this challenge. 15 A systematic review found that lipreading, touch, eye contact, gestures, and mimicking were used. 3,16 In another systematic review, it was found that caregivers try to speak slowly, use facial expressions, and use verbal and nonverbal communication techniques such as writing, reading, and explanatory cards when communicating with their patients.…”

“…This may cause difficulties for caregivers in meeting patients' needs and managing symptoms 14 . Researchers have recommended using verbal and nonverbal communication techniques to address this challenge 15 . A systematic review found that lipreading, touch, eye contact, gestures, and mimicking were used 3,16 .…”

“…A systematic review found that lipreading, touch, eye contact, gestures, and mimicking were used 3,16 . In another systematic review, it was found that caregivers try to speak slowly, use facial expressions, and use verbal and nonverbal communication techniques such as writing, reading, and explanatory cards when communicating with their patients 15 . In accordance with the literature, the caregivers in our study stated that they used verbal and nonverbal communication techniques such as gestures and facial expressions, writing, showing letters, eye contact, and touch to communicate with their patients.…”

A Review on Nursing Care of Severe Head Injury Patients Who Undergo Late Versus Early Tracheostomy

“…The same study highlighted anger and frustration as feelings also experienced by nurses when they were not able to recognise what the patient needed or what they were trying to communicate. Other studies have found that despite the existence of several communication techniques to assist in the communications between mechanically ventilated patients and other health professionals, there is currently some difficulty in teaching them to communicate (Duarte et al, 2021).…”