Development of a computer-based communication tool for voiceless patients: AyMeSES

Mechanically ventilated patients struggle to communicate their demands to caregivers and nurses because of sound production issues. If the communication problem is ignored, it leads to distress, frustration, and rage. This problem poses a challenge not only for patients but also for healthcare team members. Communication difficulties increase the possibility of not applying the proper treatment, neglect of treatment and care and medical error. All these threaten patient safety and reduce the quality of treatment and care, further increasing the need for additional tools for effective communication between patients and caregivers. Mainly, touch-screen electronic communication tools can be used to communicate with patients. In this article, we describe the designing, development and evaluation of a computer-based software (AyMeSES) that enables voiceless patients to communicate with their caregivers.