The nurse admits a patient who is complaining of severe abdominal pain and vomiting who is nonverbal. What can the nurse do to communicate effectively with the patient?
a. Use a communication aid
b. Wait for family to arrive
c. Call interpreter services
d. Treat the pain
A
Patients with sensory losses require communication techniques that maximize existing sensory and motor functions. Some patients are unable to speak because of physical or neurological alte-rations such as paralysis; a tube in the trachea to facilitate breathing; or a stroke resulting in aphasia, difficulty understanding, or verbalizing. Many types of communication aids are available for use, including writing boards, flash cards, and picture boards. The nurse needs to determine what will work for the patient. Waiting for family is unacceptable because the patient is in pain. Interpreter services are for patients who do not speak the language. The nurse should not just treat the pain without assessing the patient.
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