What factors influence nurses’ communication with British Sign Language (BSL) users

Abstract

The purpose of this research proposal is to explore factors which influence nurses’ communication with British Sign Language Users in the acute hospital setting. Literature suggests Deaf people experience barriers to accessing and receiving health care (Steinberg et al., 2005). Previous studies produced literature on the barriers faced by BSL users in relation to health care. However, there is little research surrounding the specific barriers in the acute hospital setting. The proposed question ‘What factors influence nurses’ communication with BSL users in acute hospital settings?’ was used which encompassed both positive and negative factors which affect communication to avoid assuming there were barriers. Over the course of 9 months using a descriptive exploratory qualitative approach, the researcher will use purposive sampling to undertake up to 10 semi structured interviews with registered nurses. Transcribed interviews will be coded and labelled and using Nvivo software themes will then be identified. It is hoped that by carrying out this proposal the findings will portray what factors influence communication. This would raise awareness of BSL users and lead to further research in this area.