This website was designed to try to improve first responder communication with deaf, signing patients. It contains videos of signed questions that first responders commonly ask patients. The patient should look at the options on the right and select or type what their response to the question is. The goal of the website is for this communication to be easier for both the first responder and the patient and allow the first responder to provide better quality care to the patient.
The belief that this form of communication can be impactful stems from many different sources. The ultimate goal of this project is to create an app so this communication can be implemented completely offline. This is inspired by a research study in which ambulances included just a pamphlet they used for help communicating with hearing impaired patients. The result of the study was that just this pamphlet and a small amount of information first responders learned about caring for hearing impaired patients significantly improved the quality of care they could provide. The hope is that an offline app can achieve similar results.
Initially, the idea of the project was to only include the videos and the patient would respond appropriately so the first responder could understand. Later, the idea developed to including a “Yes/No” option, a slider with number options, and a chat box where the patient can respond and include any helpful information.
DISCLAIMER: THIS WEBSITE IS CURRENTLY FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR CLINICAL USE.
Do you want to go to the hospital?
Are you in pain?
Where are you in pain?
How severe is the pain, 1-10?
Are you having trouble breathing?
Do you take any medications?
Can you show me which medications you are taking?
Do you have diabetes?
Are you pregnant?
Is there any chance you could be pregnant?
Are you sexually active?
How many times have you been pregnant?
Have you had any miscarriages or abortions?
About/Contact:
The website was created by Ansh Chhabra, a high school senior at the Carol Martin Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science in Bowling Green, KY. He is a nationally certified EMT and a KY licensed EMT. He received training from the Medical Center EMS in Bowling Green with instructors Casey McCoy and Stephen Parrott. For any questions, suggestions, or comments directed toward the website creator, please email asl4emt@gmail.com.