Descrição das expectativas das famílias de crianças deficientes auditivas com o uso de implante coclear

Abstract

The possibility of cochlear implants in younger children emphasizes the need to describe the expectations and impact on the involved families. This research’s main objective is to describe the expectations of the families of deaf children using cochlear implants. Method: This is a qualitative study, using the technique of the “Collective Discourse” proposed by Lefevre. The sample was consisted of families of deaf children profound sensorineural, bilateral, patients using cochlear implants. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, through a standard questionnaire divided into two stages: A - Diagnostics and General Information and BExpectations of Cochlear Implant. The questions were developed with the aim of researching the families’ reactions and expectations, as well as their feelings when facing the diagnosis of hearing loss of their family members. The interviews were recorded and transcribed, literally, following all the pauses and intonation. Results: After application of the “Collective Discourse” technique, it was found that: regarding the diagnosis, all family members showed reactions of pain and frustration when they learned that the person was deaf, and the conclusion of this information was obtained through interviews with family members, as was quoted in the words "... it was very sad, because until then, you do not have any notion of what is the life of a person who loses his hearing, so for us it was all new ..."; and regarding the expectation of the use of cochlear implants: all reported great interest, however, before surgery all family members described a worry and showed resistance, mainly by not knowing what would be the post-surgery, as we can see through the words "...I had doubt if operates and she gets problems, in one million operations something might happen... ". Conclusion: There is a feeling among the family members before diagnosis, and after confirmation of hearing loss, justifying the need for family adjustments. There is a need to understand the stages of hearing loss and cochlear implant and particularly how patients are affected by them, so it is crucial a broad view of the Speech Therapist