Communication is Key

I only had few hospital experiences (giving birth to our three children were amongst them!) so I had bit of both good and not so bad experiences at the hospital. I could not remember having a really bad or frustrating time. Considering that I did not have an interpreter at any time. I am profoundly deaf and can lip-read just okay (in my opinion!!)  The other times were mostly done in emergency department (cut finger and burns on my right forearm) and few day procedures.  All went good as far as I could remember other than when I did have few struggling moment when it came to communication. Most of my times one or two of my family members came with me in support. 

Most nursing staff were very approachable and friendly and sympathetic. Upon reminding them of my deafness, they the proceed speak clearly or slowly etc. Most of time was written down in case I didn't understand. So my experience was acceptably satisfied with peace of mind which is most important. 

Did you have an interpreter? Not even once!!! However, I tend to be rather selective of such people. For example, I response better to those who can understand me or know how to communicate with deaf people with such a kind of empathy.  I speak more or response better to anyone who is very deaf-friendly or kind and patient enough towards deaf people. No way would I be able to understand any doctor or nurse who just babbles away...... I would, in turn, be frustrated and nervous and apprehensive.  

Also, if I came across with anyone who us difficult to talk or understand with I would write it down. And vice versa.  I love anyone who smiles often....

What could the nurses or health care staff do better next time? Just be aware of deaf person's needs. Friendly smile and talk clearly or provide an interpreter should a deaf person requests one. 
 

I remember clearly one time when just before I was wheeled into an operating theatre, (prior CI surgery), once again all these theatre nurses were babbling towards me and asked me to sign the form to which I couldn't understand nor read (since they took my reading glasses away!) so that was a rather nerve wracking moment for me. 
 

I prefer any nursing staff or doctor who are deaf friendly with kind smiles . Written communication is another helpful means for me if there is no interpreter provided. 

Smiling nurses like you are the best!