Evolving a system for effective communication with non-speaking patients in emergencies

Individuals with cerebral palsy generally use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices to help them interact socially. The vocabularies provided in these systems are not specifically helpful in communicating during medical emergency or hospital intensive care. This project involves user-centered design and development of a software module for use in such situations, based on a vocabulary set for medical situations derived through earlier research with MC users, caregivers, speech language pathologists and medical care professionals. The module will be implemented as part of an iPad-based MC product (TalkRocket Go) marketed by MyVoice Inc. By helping improve the quality of life of individuals with cerebral palsy who are MC users, this research will serve the mandate of the Ontario Federation for Cerebral Palsy. Designed to be easy-to-Iearn and easy-to-use, the system will help medical professionals provide better care to any patient who is unable to speak due to temporary medical conditions.

Faculty Supervisor:

Dr. Jutta Treviranus

Student:

Sherly Thankappan

Partner:

Ontario Federation for Cerebral Palsy

Discipline:

Design

Sector:

Medical devices

University:

OCAD University