NURSING CARE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES FROM THE ASSOCIATION OF THE BLIND OF TUNGURAHUA
Keywords:
Nursing Care; Persons with Visual Disabilities; Persons with Disabilities; Community Health Nursing; Primary Health CareAbstract
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46296/gt.v9i17.0357
Abstract
Introduction: Visual disability represents a significant challenge for health systems due to communication barriers, limited accessibility, and environmental constraints faced by visually impaired individuals when accessing health services. In primary health care settings, these limitations may affect the quality, safety, and humanization of nursing care. Objective: To analyze nursing care for people with visual disabilities in the Tungurahua Association of the Blind, to identify the communication barriers and specific needs they face, and to propose health strategies to improve their care in the health centers they attend. Method: A qualitative descriptive study was conducted. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with visually impaired individuals belonging to the Association of the Blind of Tungurahua. The information obtained was analyzed using thematic analysis to identify categories related to experiences of nursing care in health services. Results: Participants described barriers in communication with health personnel, difficulties in orientation within health facilities, and experiences of non-humanized care. These situations affect patients’ perceptions of safety, autonomy, and confidence during the care process. However, participants indicated that inclusive communication strategies, such as explaining procedures in advance and providing verbal guidance within care spaces, promote a safer and more respectful care experience. Conclusions: Nursing care for visually impaired individuals requires strengthening inclusive communication strategies, improving accessibility in health services, and promoting professional training to ensure more humanized, safe, and inclusive care in primary health care settings.
Keywords: Nursing Care; Persons with Visual Disabilities; Persons with Disabilities; Community Health Nursing; Primary Health Care.
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