How to make the difference in compromised communication: Application of the letter and word table – A clinical case

Abstract

Clinical case regarding a patient with larynx oncological pathology in evolution, without indication for surgery, with tracheotomy and tetraparesis, highly dependent on self-care, with a strong feeling of revolt and sadness due to compromised communication. After a cognitive and functional evaluation and the implementation of unsuccessful strategies such as gestures e mimetic lips, we aim
to present in this clinical case, the communication solution successfully implemented, as well as the optimization of its mode of operation, taking into account this person’s constraints. An augmentative and/or alternative communication strategy was applied through the use of a letter and word table. Upon evaluation, this strategy was deemed effective.

In conclusion, when nurses have knowledge about augmentative and/or alternative communication strategies, they will be able to develop individualized interventions that effectively optimize the communication of people with communicational deficits, improving the quality of care delivery. The use of a letter and word table in this situation has proved to be effective and has promoted effective patient communication with health professionals and their families, which naturally contributed to the decrease
of feelings of frustration and revolt.