Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 11) — For seriously ill COVID-19 patients with tubes connected to ventilators that pump air into their lungs, trying to send messages is a huge challenge.
Seeking to alleviate this, the Philippine Association of Speech Pathologists has developed sets of communication boards for COVID-19 patients with ventilation support.
Through a set of visual aids, the patients could convey their needs or ask questions by pointing, looking at or gesturing at symbols, words, phrases and pictures. The kits are translated in Filipino, English, Cebuano, Ilocano and Waray.
The materials could be accessed here.
The association shared instructions on how to assemble the communication boards for those interested to make them. It is also asking concerned individuals and groups to help them assemble and distribute the materials to hospitals.
The speech therapists pointed out communication is important as it may increase the patients’ chances of surviving. They noted that many people infected with COVID-19 will need intubation or other escalated respiratory support.
“By being unable to communicate, there is a risk of causing adverse events to happen, events that may impact patient’s recovery,” they said.
“Patients who are unable to communicate cannot effectively participate in medical decision making. These in turn make their intensive care unit stay more stressful for them and their caregivers,” they added.
COVID-19 is a disease caused by a coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2, which is related to the virus that causes Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome
Health authorities urge the public to practice preventive measures such as frequent hand washing with soap, covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and maintaining physical distance.
The visual boards are currently being used at the University of Cebu Medical Center in Mandaue, Cebu and Cotabato Provincial Hospital in Kidapawan City, Cotabato.
