Rehabilitation Nursing for Patients with Communication Disorders

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Video Runtime: 50 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 30 Minutes

This course is part of our CRRN® Prep-Program. Learn more about the full prep-program here: MedBridge CRRN® Prep-Program.

Communication is an essential component of functioning, and disorders of communication have a significant impact on the patient and family. In this course, participants will learn about the anatomy and physiology related to communication, common communication disorders seen in patients with neurologic conditions, and interventions to address common disorders. The use of resources such as other assistive technology and adaptive equipment, and collaboration with the patient’s support system and other providers will be explored. This course reviews how rehabilitation nurses can apply the nursing process to optimize the individual's ability to communicate effectively.

CRRN® is a registered trademark of the Association of Rehabilitation Nurses.

Meet your instructor

Michelle Camicia

Michelle Camicia is the director of operations for Kaiser Foundation Rehabilitation Center at the Vallejo Medical Center. She is responsible for day-to-day operations of the center as well as outreach, quality, and regulatory oversight. Michelle is a past president of the Association of Rehabilitation Nurses. She has…

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Chapters & learning objectives

1. Communication

Rehabilitation nurses need to recognize the normal anatomy and physiology related to communication, in addition to the developmental and cultural factors related to communication. This chapter covers the normal anatomy and physiology related to communication, developmental and cultural factors related to communication, and elements of assessment related to comprehension and expression.

2. Post-Operative Cording

Rehabilitation nurses need to recognize common communication disorders that are often seen in patients with neurological disorders (e.g., stroke, brain injury). This chapter briefly reviews common communication disorders seen in rehabilitation patients with neurologic conditions, and interventions to address these communication disorders.

3. Muscle and Postural Imbalances

Communication can be enhanced by the use of assistive technology and adaptive equipment, in addition to standard techniques. The rehabilitation nurse engages with other professionals and the patient’s support system through the nursing process to ensure available resources are utilized to improve communication. This chapter reviews strategies and resources for providers and the patient's support system to use to optimize the patient’s ability to communicate.

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