Nonvocal ventilated patients perceptions of being understood

Abstract

This metasynthesis presents an enlarged interpretation and understanding of nonvocal mechanically ventilated patients' experiences with communication. Peplau's interpersonal relations theory provided the theoretical framework for the metasynthesis. The final sample included 12 qualitative studies, for a total of 111 participants. The data, methods, and theoretical frameworks were critically interpreted. Common threads detected across study participants' individual experiences were synthesized to form a greater understanding of nonvocal ventilated patients' perceptions of being understood. Five overarching themes were divided into two groups. The first group of themes was categorized as the characteristics of nonvocal ventilated patients' communication experiences. Nonvocal individuals were often not understood, which resulted in loss of control and negative emotional responses. The second group of themes was categorized as the kind of nursing care desired by nonvocal patients in order to be understood. Nonvocal patients wanted nursing care that was delivered in an individualized, caring manner. This facilitated positive interpersonal relations between the patient and the nurse. Findings are discussed in relation to the current state of knowledge on this topic.