Care Plan for Communication

Category / Primary Body System

• Neurological System

Problem

• Patient has alteration in communication related to [specific condition, e.g., stroke, aphasia, cognitive impairment].

Goal

• Patient will continue to communicate basic needs when cued for 90 days.

Plan/Approach

1. Communication Techniques

   • Use simple phrases and words when communicating with the patient.
   • Utilize an interpreter as needed for patients who speak a different language or have significant hearing loss.
   • Allow the patient ample time to express themselves without rushing them.
   • Use non-verbal forms of communication (e.g., gestures, pictures, communication boards) as appropriate.

2. Family Involvement

   • Encourage family participation in the patient’s care to provide emotional support and enhance communication.

3. Therapeutic Interventions

   • Arrange a speech therapy consult as needed to address specific communication impairments.

4. Medication Management

   • Administer medications as ordered to manage any underlying conditions affecting communication.

Rationale

1. Communication Techniques

   • Using simple phrases and non-verbal communication helps reduce frustration and improves understanding for patients with communication difficulties.
   • Allowing time for the patient to express themselves ensures they are heard and understood, reducing anxiety and promoting effective communication.
   • An interpreter ensures accurate communication for non-English speakers or those with hearing impairments.

2. Family Involvement

   • Involving family members provides additional support and familiarity, which can enhance the patient’s comfort and willingness to communicate.

3. Therapeutic Interventions

   • Speech therapy provides targeted strategies and exercises to improve communication abilities.

4. Medication Management

   • Proper medication management helps control conditions that may impair communication, such as neurological disorders or severe anxiety.

Actions

1. Communication Techniques

   • Use clear, simple phrases and words when talking to the patient, and repeat or rephrase if needed.
   • Engage an interpreter for patients who require assistance with language or hearing.
   • Allow the patient ample time to respond during conversations, avoiding interruptions.
   • Incorporate non-verbal communication tools, such as gesture, pictures, or communication boards, to aid understanding and expression.

2. Family Involvement

   • Encourage family members to be present and involved in care activities and communication, providing guidance on how to support the patient’s communication efforts.
   • Educate family members on effective communication strategies to use with the patient.

3. Therapeutic Interventions

   • Schedule and follow through with speech therapy sessions, incorporating the therapist’s recommendations into daily care routines.
   • Document progress and any changes in the patient’s communication abilities, adjusting the care plan as needed.

4. Medication Management

   • Administer prescribed medications on schedule, monitoring for effectiveness and side effects.
   • Review the patient’s medication regimen regularly with the healthcare team to ensure optimal management of conditions affecting communication.