Table 3.

Focus Group Scripts and Summaries.

Script	Summary of Participant Comments
Tell us what you thought about the basic communication skills training (BCST)?	Enlightening; helpful; introduced or reinforced known strategies Could “relate” to video BCST exemplar training featuring colleagues Some strategies novel or “interesting” but impractical (e.g., eye-gaze board)
What skills, knowledge, techniques do you use from the BCST?	Encouraging printing; watching as patients write; making eye contact; voice inflection; gaining attention by addressing patient by name Incorporation of communication assessment into shift report
If you were going to improve/ enhance the BSCT, what one thing would you change?	Extend training to other HCPs; emphasize need/role of SLP to physicians More intuitive terminology Enlarge print of some boards for patients with motor/visual limitations
Can it be shorter?	Shorten to 1 hour (from 4 hours)
What do you think was the most essential information?	Independent BCST strategies not requiring SLP support
What additional information would you have liked to receive?	No suggestions; felt information received was sufficient
What were the most important aspects of the program to you?	Learning through colleague video exemplars Availability of communication materials on units Consultation with the SLP
What information or strategies have you used most?	MOST: Making eye contact, tagged yes/no, 1st letter pointing and mouthing words, communication boards; electronic voice output devices (some nurses)
Least?	LEAST: Eye-gaze boards, written-choice, partner-assisted scanning, emotion boards
Was the training website valuable?	No recall of website; unclear whether this resource was referenced in all training sessions
How often did you use it?
Was the communication algorithm pocket card useful? Did you refer to it?	Mixed reactions: helpful vs. too “busy” Great for new graduate nurses Intuitive design for ICU nurses familiar with treatment algorithms Misplaced pocket reference card frequently
How would this work as an on-line educational offering?	As part of new nurse orientation or online nurse training modules Unit champions/leaders to supplement online information Use real nurse exemplars/simulations Incorporate definitions and scenarios of “when to use”
What would you tell other ICU nurses about the program?	Surprisingly informative; worthwhile Improved practice: more patience, increased confidence
Any success stories that you would like to share?	Multiple success stories with implementation of electronic AAC devices: permitted greater patient autonomy, gave patient purpose/voice, allowed nurse to multi-task

HCP=healthcare provider