Sign language provides a basic level of communication for hearing-impaired individuals. Sign language, however, has rarely been used for communicating drug information and one possible reason for this is that there is no effective system for learning sign language related to drug information. In this study, we worked together with hearing-impaired individuals in developing a learning system for facilitating guidance on drug administration using sign language. First, information to be communicated by sign language was divided into 6 categories : 1) drug usage and dosage, 2) directions for use (external preparations), 3) allergy checking, 4) drug storage, 5) administration sites and 6) pleasantries to be exchanged with hearing-impaired individuals. Next, information to be conveyed under these categories was translated into sign language by hearing-impaired individuals and then we recorded the signing with a digital video camera and formatted it on to a digital video disc (DVD). Doing this made it possible for learners to review desired items of sign language repeatedly.
To evaluate the usefulness of our system, we had pharmacists complete a questionnaire which regarded 1) ease-of-use, 2) appropriateness of content and 3) efficiency for learning sign language. Their responses suggested that the system is a useful means of presenting sign language, has no time or place restrictions, and is easy to use, even for beginners.
If the system were incorporated in drug histories on DVDs, this would make it possible to give drug administration guidance by sign language using computers at pharmacies. The system may easily be shared by individuals or groups. We therefore consider that it is a useful tool for giving drug administration guidance to hearing-impaired individuals.