Real-Life Communication
Respiratory therapists often work with patients who can't easily
respond to questions. If they're on a life-support system, they won't be able
to speak with you. Therefore, you can't ask open-ended questions such as,
"What's your middle name?"
"You try and work it in yes or no kinds
of questions," says respiratory therapist Allan Shemanko. "With a tube in
their mouth that goes into their lungs, they can't speak. There's no air going
past their vocal cords, so you need to come up with some method of communication."
Some
patients can respond by nodding or shaking their head. With others, you might
be able to read their lips. Every question, of course, has to be able to be
answered with a yes or no.
Change the following open-ended questions
to yes or no questions. For some, you'll need to ask two or more questions.
The important thing is you get the same information you would from the open-ended
question.
1. When did the doctor last see you?
2. Are you feeling
better or worse than yesterday?
3. How do you feel?
4. How easy are
you finding it to breathe?
5. How much sleep have you been getting?
6.
How comfortable are you in that position?