For critically ill patients, what are some practical ways speech-language pathologists can address barriers to communication? Today on the podcast, we talk effective communication between critically ill patients and providers in the ICU, emphasizing the role of augmentative and alternative communication. Guests include speech-language pathologist Tami Altschuler and nursing professor Mary Beth Happ, who describe practical ways SLPs and others working in the ICU can collaborate to create greater access to communication. Both share moving stories that bring this work to life. Plus, SLP Chris Ross shares her personal experience of being unable to communicate during a stay in the ICU. Learn More: ASHA: Communication Access SPEACS-2 Communication Training Program ASHA Voices: Creating ‘Ramps’ to Communication Access in Health Care Communication Access in Health Services Special Collection Augmentative and Alternative Communication Transcript

Practical Ways to Boost Patient-Provider Communication in the ICU

Discussion