Background: Nurses communicatingwith patientswho are unable to speak often lack access to tools and technologies
to support communication. Although mobile communication technologies are ubiquitous, it is not known
whether their use to support communication is feasible on a busy hospital ward.
Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine the views of hospital nurses on the feasibility of using mobile
communication technologies to support nurse–patient communication with individuals who have communication
impairments.
Method: This study involved an online survey followed by a focus group, with findings analyzed across the two
data sources.
Findings: Nurses expected that mobile communication devices could benefit patient care but lacked access to
these devices, encountered policies against use, and held concerns over privacy and confidentiality.
Conclusion: The use of mobile communication technologies with patientswho have communication difficulties is
feasible and may lead to improvements in communication and care, provided environmental barriers are
removed and facilitators enhanced.