Obstetric handling of a deaf patient

Authors

• Mohamed S. Mustafa, Obstetric & Gynecology Department (36), King Khalid University Hospital, PO Box 7805, Riyadh 11472, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Fax No. +966 (1) 4620095. E-mail: mohamedsiddiq48{at}hotmail.com
• Mohamed H. Addar, Department of Obstetric & Gynecology Department, King Khalid University Hospital, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Abstract

We report our experience of obstetric handling of a deaf pregnant patient antenatally, in labor and postpartum. The patient was deaf from childhood. The attending obstetrician had no training in the necessary skills for communication with the deaf. Fortunately, the patient could read and write English very well and communication was carried out through pen and paper. This proved to be difficult, time-consuming and required a lot of patience. The clinical, psychological and human aspects of the management were gratifying. The patient brought up interesting aspects that need to be considered when dealing with similar patients. Experience of deaf mothers and their ingenious approaches in dealing with babies, in the postpartum period, are quoted in this communication.

Article Type

Case Report

First Page

1185

Last Page

1188

Recommended Citation

Mustafa, Mohamed S. and Addar, Mohamed H. (2000) "Obstetric handling of a deaf patient," Saudi Medical Journal: Vol. 21: Iss. 12, Article 16.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15537/1658-3175.1334