Abstract:
Objectives: The objectives of the study were (1) to document the common communication barriers faced by allied health science professionals while communicating with Stroke patients, (2) to develop and validate the resource material to address the most common communication barriers faced by professionals while communicating with Stroke patients and (3) to document the outcome measures as specific communication strategies for facilitating communication between health care professionals (HCP) and persons with stroke.
Design: Prospective impact evaluation research and pre-post comparison.
Method: In Phase 1, a systematic review and semi-structured interview were carried out to investigate the barriers faced by allied healthcare professionals. To collect and compile information, a questionnaire was developed and validated by HCPs. Based on the ratings of HCPs, barriers were identified for the development of the material. Phase 2 had the participating Speech Language Pathologists (SLPs) provide strategies for the identified barriers in Phase 1. Later in Phase 3, orientations were provided to the selected allied healthcare professionals, along with pre- and post-tests. The scores of the pre- and post-tests were subjected to statistical analysis.
Results: The outcomes of the pre- and post-tests were analysed, and median and range scores across participation were considered. Further, a significant difference was noticed in pre- and post-test scores, and the material was found to be effective in enhancing good knowledge to overcome barriers related to communication breakdowns, environmental modification, time, work-related aspects, handling co-morbidity, and psych-emotional issues of stroke patients
Conclusion: The current study focused on identifying barriers and facilitators across a wide range of post-stroke conditions. Future studies may narrow down the barriers and facilitators to specific conditions, since different disorders exhibit different symptoms and features, and adopt mixed-methods approaches and explore communication barriers beyond hospital settings. It will furthermore be helpful for HCPs.
