• Karen A Kehl and Constance M Gartner.
• School of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53792-2455, USA. kkehl@wisc.edu
• Palliat Med. 2010 Jan 1; 24 (1): 889388-93.

IntroductionIndividuals who are Deaf face challenges both similar and unique from those faced by hearing individuals when a family member is dying. This study was guided by the question, ''What are the challenges faced by a Deaf family member when a loved one is dying?''MethodsThis qualitative study is guided by critical theory and an interpretive perspective. Robert, a college-educated older adult who has been Deaf from birth was interviewed in American Sign Language using a death history format.ResultsThere are challenges for Deaf family members that affect communication with both the dying person and health care professionals. Patient-family communication issues included physical challenges and financial challenges. Lack of cultural competence concerning the Deaf community created challenges communicating with professionals. Decision-making was also a challenge.ConclusionsThese findings provide a framework for future research concerning the needs of Deaf individuals facing the end of life and provide guidance for clinicians.

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