Communication is a universal, dynamic process by which human beings exchange ideas and express needs. Strokes are a major cause of impaired communication, and rehabilitation nurses work closely with these clients and their families to help them cope with deficits, especially aphasia. This article defines speech and language and their physiological and psychosocial aspects, as well as three types of aphasia. Finally, nursing interventions for clients with impaired communication are suggested.
Cerebrovascular accidents are the third leading cause of death in the United States. Stroke disables two thirds of its survivors; of these, one third are severely impaired. Studies have begun only recently to focus on the emotional and psychosocial aspects of stroke recovery. Research on quality of life has been conducted with clients suffering from cancer and osteoarthritis as well as clients recovering from cardiac surgery; apparently, however, no similar study has been conducted with stroke patients. This article highlights the gap in nursing literature regarding quality of life after a stroke and encourages nurses to conduct research on this topic.
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