Nurse practitioner perceptions of barriers and facilitators in providing health care for deaf American Sign Language users: A qualitative socio-ecological approach

Kathy M. Pendergrass, Lynne Nemeth, Susan D. Newman, Carolyn M. Jenkins, Elaine G. Jones

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

20 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background and purpose: Nurse practitioners (NPs), as well as all healthcare clinicians, have a legal and ethical responsibility to provide health care for deaf American Sign Language (ASL) users equal to that of other patients, including effective communication, autonomy, and confidentiality. However, very little is known about the feasibility to provide equitable health care. The purpose of this study was to examine NP perceptions of barriers and facilitators in providing health care for deaf ASL users. Data sources: Semistructured interviews in a qualitative design using a socio-ecological model (SEM). Conclusions: Barriers were identified at all levels of the SEM. NPs preferred interpreters to facilitate the visit, but were unaware of their role in assuring effective communication is achieved. A professional sign language interpreter was considered a last resort when all other means of communication failed. Gesturing, note-writing, lip-reading, and use of a familial interpreter were all considered facilitators. Implications for practice: Interventions are needed at all levels of the SEM. Resources are needed to provide awareness of deaf communication issues and legal requirements for caring for deaf signers for practicing and student NPs. Protocols need to be developed and present in all healthcare facilities for hiring interpreters as well as quick access to contact information for these interpreters.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)316-323
Number of pages8
JournalJournal of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners
Volume29
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 2017

Keywords

  • Communication
  • advanced practice nurse
  • deafness
  • ethics
  • legal
  • nurse practitioner
  • qualitative research
  • sign language

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Nursing(all)

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