Exploring augmentative and alternative communication in intensive care units: nurses' experiences, knowledge, and training preferences in Cyprus.

Purpose: Nurses provide quality and safe care to critically ill patients in intensive care units (ICUs) who might also experience severe speech-language production and/or comprehension impairments. However, interpreting patients' communication efforts is not always possible for several reasons, such as lack of time or training. The current study aimed to investigate ICU nurses' Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) knowledge and determine their preference for receiving training on AAC forms of communication.

Materials and methods: One hundred and two ICU nurses from Cyprus's three largest public ICUs completed an electronic questionnaire with multiple-choice questions.

Results: The findings showed that participants use both unaided and aided forms of communication. The aided forms are limited to pen and paper and whiteboards, with the use of other assistive technology being scarce. It was also evident that participants had received minimal training in AAC. However, the nurses expressed a willingness to receive training in AAC to communicate with their patients.

Conclusions: It is essential that AAC training is provided to ICU nurses during their academic training and as part of continuous professional education. Additionally, interdisciplinary collaboration with healthcare professionals, such as speech and language therapists specializing in ICU communication enhancement, is advised.