Unit 3029 Explain The Importance Of Meeting An Individual's Communication Needs
HSC 3029: SUPPORT INDIVIDUALS WITH SPECIFIC COMMUNICATION NEEDS.
Q:1.1 Explain the importance of meeting an individual’s communication needs.
Individuals who have communication problems need support to enable them to express themselves effectively. It is therefore important for the carer to be aware of the individuals preferred method of communication and also to support the individual to use their preferred method. Individuals have the right to communicate through their chosen method and their choice should be acknowledged and respected by supporting them. The individual’s rights are particularly important when using specific communication methods and language because it’s their way of communicating their needs and preferences. Communication …show more content…
is a basic human right. Without communication the individual is unable to exercise their rights. Under the Human Rights Act 1998 all individuals have the right to ‘freedom of expression’. If unable to communicate they would be denied these rights.
For example: one of my service users has a series of communication problems, he has dysphasia, which resulted after he had a stroke. When he wanted to ask a question carers could not understand what he meant because what he meant to say sounded different to what he wanted, which lead to him getting upset, frustrated, and angry because he wasn’t being understood. His specific communication needs were difficult to understand at first however as I slowly got to know him and took my time to understand him I realized when he was asking for something he was saying something unrelated to what he wanted. So I sat down with him one day and tired to understand the phrases he used and what they meant to him. Like when he wanted his catheter bag emptied his phrase was (take it down) or when he wanted to go to his room he used to shout for his grandson. My point is that it is important to try to understand an individual when they want to communicate, as everybody is different and have their own way of communicating. In my example above my service user as a result of his health problems got abit muddled at times with his words and when I sat down with him to learn what he meant it made his life a lot easier and less frustrating and it also helped other carers understand him to.
Q: 1.2 explain how own role and practice can impact on communication with an individual who has specific communication needs
As a carer it is your role and responsibility to support individuals to express themselves. The way in which you can do this is by assessing their needs, access information regarding their communication needs, providing the appropriate support, aids or equipment, encouraging and motivating communication, working with others and by monitoring the effectiveness of that support. Without the appropriate support the individual would be unable to express their needs or how they are feeling which can lead to both emotional and physical difficulties. By fully supporting individuals with specific communication needs you are able to support their rights.
For example: - a service user that I support was struggling to hear when carers were talking to her carers noticed that she was unable to hear them when she was being asked a question, and even when they raised their voice and spoke clearer, she still couldn’t hear quite what they were saying. So this communication problem got reported to a senior staff member who then got Mrs. x referred to the hearing specialist who ran some tests on Mrs. x and they came to the conclusion that Mrs. x needed two hearing aids to be able to communicate efficiently. My point in this example is this lady was struggling to hear which resulted in her getting abit upset and frustrated with carers who were trying to help her. So it helped when staff took action and reported the situation their role help this lady to be accessed and appropriate aids were then put in place to make this lady’s life a little easier.
Q: 1.3 analyze features of the environment that may help hinder communication
Communication Features that may hinder communication may include, poor lighting, lack of privacy, distraction, noise from TV/radio, people all talking at the same time, seating arrangements, not facing individual when talking to them, covering mouth, eating or chewing, talking too fast or too slow, poor ventilation, room too hot or cold. Features that may help communication may include, talking slowly, clearly and concisely, eliminating any background noise, turn TV/radio down or off.
Q: 1.4 analyzes features why an individual may use a form of communication that is not based on a formal language system.
…show more content…
Reasons an individual may use a form of communication that is not based on a formal language system include the fact that they are not trained or taught in formal language systems, for example, if a person could not talk or write but could hear, and either you or they didn't know sign language then you could ask a question and say "press once for yes and twice for no", hence you are using a form of communication that is not based on a formal language system.
Not everyone can use formal language.
This means it is more difficult to consult them on what they want. This does not mean that they cannot be consulted at all however. It just means we have to be more creative to get people’s views. People’s views may not be directly available, the views and concepts we want can be difficult to grasp However you can find out whether someone’s experiences have been positive or negative and how someone has responded to an experience by being sensitive to the communication of the individual. The communication of someone who does not use formal language is usually around individual body language, vocalizations, facial expressions etc. You have to get to know the individual to find out what their ‘signs’ mean. For consultation purposes the evidence of how someone feels about a service must then be shared with those who are in a position to make changes. Somehow the experiences of individuals, and the groups they make up, must be recorded and communicated to others.
Q: 1.6 describe the potential effects on an individual of having unmet communication needs.
The potential effect of having unmet communication need would be the individual would get quite up set and frustrated that they couldn’t get their point across. This lack of recognition can be a barrier to effective participation. Lack of understanding can result in people's behavior being misunderstood. A person may be described as 'challenging' mood swings etc. They may become withdrawn
from other people. But their behavior may be a result of an unmet communication support need.
Q: 2.1 work in partnership with individual and others to identify the individual’s specific communication needs. (This answer also relates to) Q: 1.5 identify a range of communication methods and aids to support individuals to communicate.
I would work in partnership with the individual and their hearing specialists, speech and language, families, etc to identify the individuals specific communication needs by asking the people involved what the best action would be in order to gain the best outcome. I would also keep up to date with all regular assessments involving everyone concerned whilst abiding to all laws and organizational policies. I would also implement and encourage the individual to implement; any strategies that had been agreed on in order allow the individual to communicate effectively. I would also access information and support about identifying and addressing communication needs from other colleagues and family members etc who were involved with the client. These would be accessed if I or the client etc wanted to bring themselves up to date with any actions that had been agreed by all or if the client etc wanted a review of their care plan.
I would prepare the environment for effective communication by ensuring that all areas were well lit, chairs were facing each other, people were facing each other, there is no noise and any other needs, eg, computer screens, hearing aids etc. were switched on in order for effective communication between the client and anyone involved.
I would monitor the individual’s responses before and after the interaction to check the effectiveness of the communication by checking for any nods of heads, asking people if they had understood the question, making sure people were taking notes etc.
I would adapt my own practice to improve communication support with the individual by allowing the individual time to think before expecting them to answer. I would also ask them if there was anything they wanted me to do in order for them to communicate more effectively with them.
I would support the individual to develop communication methods that will help them to understand others and be understood by them by advising others on the best way the client communicates, and if necessary acting as an in between person for the individual to communicate with others, as well as advising the client on the best way for them to communicate with others.
I would provide opportunities for the individual to communicate with others by taking time to provide all necessary equipment. I would also take them out into society so that they can communicate themselves with people, for example, whilst shopping.
I would support others to be understood by the individual by agreed methods by advising them on the particular communication methods that the individual uses.
Q: 2.2 contribute to identifying the communication methods or aids that will best suit an individual.
Communication is a two way process and the key features is how a person will send a message (Sender) and how a person processes and understands the message (receiver) communication is not only about the words used but the manner in which you use them. Body language and effective listening are also good forms of communication. Two way communications is important because it allows the sender to ensure that the receiver has received and understood the message being sent.
In my role as a care worker I have to be patient when communicating with individuals with sensory loss. I have to take the time to listen and understand what the individuals are asking of me and acknowledge that I have understood. I then ensure that they understand what I am saying. At times I have to repeat what I say or write it down for the individual.
I would contribute to finding the appropriate communication method by assessing the individual with a senior carer and contacting outside care professionals for advice and maybe if needed getting the individual an assessment by the appropriate professional body I,e hearing specialists, SALT, deaf & blind service etc.
Q 5.1 identify specialist services relating to communication technology and aids.
Specialist services that relate to communication and technology aids are telecare organizations such as RNIB, action hearing loss (formerly RNID) sense, you could use communication aids such as DVD, audio, braille, going to a shop or showroom to look at equipment, PECS books, written communication, non verbal communication such as body language, eye contact and there are many more communication methods.
Q 5.2 describes types of support that an individual may need in order to use communication technology aids.
An individual can be supported to communicate through technology aids such as computers, software, touch screen devices, hearing aids, spectacles, picture charts etc. carers and families can also help support individuals to communicate by getting information about the type of communication problem the individual has and trying to find the appropriate solution with the help of other professionals. Training courses are also available and can be very helpful if you work in the care industry, training is usually provided for you and can be assessed and funded by your local authority.
Q 5.3 explain the importance of ensuring that communication equipment is correctly set up and working properly.
It is important that you ensure all equipment is working properly to ensure that the individual can communicate effectively. You should always follow the manufacturers instructions, and check that the equipment is working properly. It is important that you report any faults because if a fault goes unreported communication can breakdown between the individual and the people around them, which will result in the individual feeling isolated, frustrated and alone. It is not only communication that can breakdown but also trust that has ben built up between you and the individual. When an individual is being prevented from communicating it can be like taking their lifeline away from them because without communication they cant express their selves, which could result in ill health, depression, self neglect etc. if there has been a fault with a communication device and it has been sent away to be repaired you could try a temporary communication solution such as hand gestures, body language, writing on paper, books or simple yes and no if appropriate etc. if an individual cannot or is being prevented from communicating it is against their human right.
Q 6.1 collate information about an individual communication and the support
Provided.
Collating and communicating health information is an important way of expressing any concerns that you may have about an individual. At the establishment were I work me and my colleagues communicate regular throughout the shift to ensure that all staff no anything of importance we also record all information regarding an individual on their care records which are kept on a computer system called caredocs. At the end of each shift my colleagues and I gather in a private place and do what we call a handover, which is, were we report any concerns we have about an any individual in our care. We discuss such things like if anyone has gone in to hospital, health deterioration, communication, and mobility. If for example we were discussing an individual which a communication problem such as loss of hearing senior staff would go and assess the individual and then call the doctor who would then referrer them to a hearing specialist. It is important that all care records are kept up to date so that all individuals can get the appropriate support need to communicate effectively.
Q 6.2 contribute to evaluating the effectiveness of agreed methods of communication and support provided.
Q 6.3 work with others to identify ways to support the continued development of communication. ( this question also relates to 6.1 as above )
Collating and collecting information is essential in monitoring the effectiveness of the communication systems. We collect the information by observing getting feedback from others and recording information. So that is why we need to work with others to identify ways to support the continued development of communication with other care professionals. Care professionals communicate with colleagues and other professionals in many contexts everyday. Effective communication requires personal and professional respect for others, trust in the judgment and values of colleagues, good verbal and listening skills. Care professional may communicate formally and informally with colleagues and others they are working in partnership with. Effective communication and interactions enable people to work more effectively and to collaborate with and support the individual in their care.
Q:1.1 Explain the importance of meeting an individual’s communication needs.
Individuals who have communication problems need support to enable them to express themselves effectively. It is therefore important for the carer to be aware of the individuals preferred method of communication and also to support the individual to use their preferred method. Individuals have the right to communicate through their chosen method and their choice should be acknowledged and respected by supporting them. The individual’s rights are particularly important when using specific communication methods and language because it’s their way of communicating their needs and preferences. Communication …show more content…
is a basic human right. Without communication the individual is unable to exercise their rights. Under the Human Rights Act 1998 all individuals have the right to ‘freedom of expression’. If unable to communicate they would be denied these rights.
For example: one of my service users has a series of communication problems, he has dysphasia, which resulted after he had a stroke. When he wanted to ask a question carers could not understand what he meant because what he meant to say sounded different to what he wanted, which lead to him getting upset, frustrated, and angry because he wasn’t being understood. His specific communication needs were difficult to understand at first however as I slowly got to know him and took my time to understand him I realized when he was asking for something he was saying something unrelated to what he wanted. So I sat down with him one day and tired to understand the phrases he used and what they meant to him. Like when he wanted his catheter bag emptied his phrase was (take it down) or when he wanted to go to his room he used to shout for his grandson. My point is that it is important to try to understand an individual when they want to communicate, as everybody is different and have their own way of communicating. In my example above my service user as a result of his health problems got abit muddled at times with his words and when I sat down with him to learn what he meant it made his life a lot easier and less frustrating and it also helped other carers understand him to.
Q: 1.2 explain how own role and practice can impact on communication with an individual who has specific communication needs
As a carer it is your role and responsibility to support individuals to express themselves. The way in which you can do this is by assessing their needs, access information regarding their communication needs, providing the appropriate support, aids or equipment, encouraging and motivating communication, working with others and by monitoring the effectiveness of that support. Without the appropriate support the individual would be unable to express their needs or how they are feeling which can lead to both emotional and physical difficulties. By fully supporting individuals with specific communication needs you are able to support their rights.
For example: - a service user that I support was struggling to hear when carers were talking to her carers noticed that she was unable to hear them when she was being asked a question, and even when they raised their voice and spoke clearer, she still couldn’t hear quite what they were saying. So this communication problem got reported to a senior staff member who then got Mrs. x referred to the hearing specialist who ran some tests on Mrs. x and they came to the conclusion that Mrs. x needed two hearing aids to be able to communicate efficiently. My point in this example is this lady was struggling to hear which resulted in her getting abit upset and frustrated with carers who were trying to help her. So it helped when staff took action and reported the situation their role help this lady to be accessed and appropriate aids were then put in place to make this lady’s life a little easier.
Q: 1.3 analyze features of the environment that may help hinder communication
Communication Features that may hinder communication may include, poor lighting, lack of privacy, distraction, noise from TV/radio, people all talking at the same time, seating arrangements, not facing individual when talking to them, covering mouth, eating or chewing, talking too fast or too slow, poor ventilation, room too hot or cold. Features that may help communication may include, talking slowly, clearly and concisely, eliminating any background noise, turn TV/radio down or off.
Q: 1.4 analyzes features why an individual may use a form of communication that is not based on a formal language system.
…show more content…
Reasons an individual may use a form of communication that is not based on a formal language system include the fact that they are not trained or taught in formal language systems, for example, if a person could not talk or write but could hear, and either you or they didn't know sign language then you could ask a question and say "press once for yes and twice for no", hence you are using a form of communication that is not based on a formal language system.
Not everyone can use formal language.
This means it is more difficult to consult them on what they want. This does not mean that they cannot be consulted at all however. It just means we have to be more creative to get people’s views. People’s views may not be directly available, the views and concepts we want can be difficult to grasp However you can find out whether someone’s experiences have been positive or negative and how someone has responded to an experience by being sensitive to the communication of the individual. The communication of someone who does not use formal language is usually around individual body language, vocalizations, facial expressions etc. You have to get to know the individual to find out what their ‘signs’ mean. For consultation purposes the evidence of how someone feels about a service must then be shared with those who are in a position to make changes. Somehow the experiences of individuals, and the groups they make up, must be recorded and communicated to others.
Q: 1.6 describe the potential effects on an individual of having unmet communication needs.
The potential effect of having unmet communication need would be the individual would get quite up set and frustrated that they couldn’t get their point across. This lack of recognition can be a barrier to effective participation. Lack of understanding can result in people's behavior being misunderstood. A person may be described as 'challenging' mood swings etc. They may become withdrawn
from other people. But their behavior may be a result of an unmet communication support need.
Q: 2.1 work in partnership with individual and others to identify the individual’s specific communication needs. (This answer also relates to) Q: 1.5 identify a range of communication methods and aids to support individuals to communicate.
I would work in partnership with the individual and their hearing specialists, speech and language, families, etc to identify the individuals specific communication needs by asking the people involved what the best action would be in order to gain the best outcome. I would also keep up to date with all regular assessments involving everyone concerned whilst abiding to all laws and organizational policies. I would also implement and encourage the individual to implement; any strategies that had been agreed on in order allow the individual to communicate effectively. I would also access information and support about identifying and addressing communication needs from other colleagues and family members etc who were involved with the client. These would be accessed if I or the client etc wanted to bring themselves up to date with any actions that had been agreed by all or if the client etc wanted a review of their care plan.
I would prepare the environment for effective communication by ensuring that all areas were well lit, chairs were facing each other, people were facing each other, there is no noise and any other needs, eg, computer screens, hearing aids etc. were switched on in order for effective communication between the client and anyone involved.
I would monitor the individual’s responses before and after the interaction to check the effectiveness of the communication by checking for any nods of heads, asking people if they had understood the question, making sure people were taking notes etc.
I would adapt my own practice to improve communication support with the individual by allowing the individual time to think before expecting them to answer. I would also ask them if there was anything they wanted me to do in order for them to communicate more effectively with them.
I would support the individual to develop communication methods that will help them to understand others and be understood by them by advising others on the best way the client communicates, and if necessary acting as an in between person for the individual to communicate with others, as well as advising the client on the best way for them to communicate with others.
I would provide opportunities for the individual to communicate with others by taking time to provide all necessary equipment. I would also take them out into society so that they can communicate themselves with people, for example, whilst shopping.
I would support others to be understood by the individual by agreed methods by advising them on the particular communication methods that the individual uses.
Q: 2.2 contribute to identifying the communication methods or aids that will best suit an individual.
Communication is a two way process and the key features is how a person will send a message (Sender) and how a person processes and understands the message (receiver) communication is not only about the words used but the manner in which you use them. Body language and effective listening are also good forms of communication. Two way communications is important because it allows the sender to ensure that the receiver has received and understood the message being sent.
In my role as a care worker I have to be patient when communicating with individuals with sensory loss. I have to take the time to listen and understand what the individuals are asking of me and acknowledge that I have understood. I then ensure that they understand what I am saying. At times I have to repeat what I say or write it down for the individual.
I would contribute to finding the appropriate communication method by assessing the individual with a senior carer and contacting outside care professionals for advice and maybe if needed getting the individual an assessment by the appropriate professional body I,e hearing specialists, SALT, deaf & blind service etc.
Q 5.1 identify specialist services relating to communication technology and aids.
Specialist services that relate to communication and technology aids are telecare organizations such as RNIB, action hearing loss (formerly RNID) sense, you could use communication aids such as DVD, audio, braille, going to a shop or showroom to look at equipment, PECS books, written communication, non verbal communication such as body language, eye contact and there are many more communication methods.
Q 5.2 describes types of support that an individual may need in order to use communication technology aids.
An individual can be supported to communicate through technology aids such as computers, software, touch screen devices, hearing aids, spectacles, picture charts etc. carers and families can also help support individuals to communicate by getting information about the type of communication problem the individual has and trying to find the appropriate solution with the help of other professionals. Training courses are also available and can be very helpful if you work in the care industry, training is usually provided for you and can be assessed and funded by your local authority.
Q 5.3 explain the importance of ensuring that communication equipment is correctly set up and working properly.
It is important that you ensure all equipment is working properly to ensure that the individual can communicate effectively. You should always follow the manufacturers instructions, and check that the equipment is working properly. It is important that you report any faults because if a fault goes unreported communication can breakdown between the individual and the people around them, which will result in the individual feeling isolated, frustrated and alone. It is not only communication that can breakdown but also trust that has ben built up between you and the individual. When an individual is being prevented from communicating it can be like taking their lifeline away from them because without communication they cant express their selves, which could result in ill health, depression, self neglect etc. if there has been a fault with a communication device and it has been sent away to be repaired you could try a temporary communication solution such as hand gestures, body language, writing on paper, books or simple yes and no if appropriate etc. if an individual cannot or is being prevented from communicating it is against their human right.
Q 6.1 collate information about an individual communication and the support
Provided.
Collating and communicating health information is an important way of expressing any concerns that you may have about an individual. At the establishment were I work me and my colleagues communicate regular throughout the shift to ensure that all staff no anything of importance we also record all information regarding an individual on their care records which are kept on a computer system called caredocs. At the end of each shift my colleagues and I gather in a private place and do what we call a handover, which is, were we report any concerns we have about an any individual in our care. We discuss such things like if anyone has gone in to hospital, health deterioration, communication, and mobility. If for example we were discussing an individual which a communication problem such as loss of hearing senior staff would go and assess the individual and then call the doctor who would then referrer them to a hearing specialist. It is important that all care records are kept up to date so that all individuals can get the appropriate support need to communicate effectively.
Q 6.2 contribute to evaluating the effectiveness of agreed methods of communication and support provided.
Q 6.3 work with others to identify ways to support the continued development of communication. ( this question also relates to 6.1 as above )
Collating and collecting information is essential in monitoring the effectiveness of the communication systems. We collect the information by observing getting feedback from others and recording information. So that is why we need to work with others to identify ways to support the continued development of communication with other care professionals. Care professionals communicate with colleagues and other professionals in many contexts everyday. Effective communication requires personal and professional respect for others, trust in the judgment and values of colleagues, good verbal and listening skills. Care professional may communicate formally and informally with colleagues and others they are working in partnership with. Effective communication and interactions enable people to work more effectively and to collaborate with and support the individual in their care.