I’m stuck on a Health & Medical question and need an explanation.
Cochelear implants is highly debated in the rehabilitation field. For physicians and parents, it offers the ability for a person who is deaf to recover some ability to hear. For the Deaf community, it is a threat because they feel the Deafness is a culture and not a disability. According to some persons within this group, by making person who are Deaf able to hear you are destroying the culture.
Two parents with “within normal limits” of hearing has a child age 3, who is deaf, is told that if the child has a cochlear implant they will be able to hear. Should they get the operation for the child? Give a detail explanation to include references via Internet to support your thought on this matter.
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Introduction:
The decision to get a cochlear implant for a deaf child is a complex and highly debated issue in the medical field. This assignment aims to provide a detailed explanation, supported by references from the internet, regarding whether two parents with “within normal limits” of hearing should opt for the operation for their deaf child.
Answer:
The question of whether two parents with “within normal limits” of hearing should choose to have a cochlear implant surgery for their deaf child is a highly personal and nuanced decision that depends on various factors. It is essential to consider the medical and ethical aspects, as well as the perspectives of both the medical community and the Deaf community.
From a medical standpoint, cochlear implants have proven to be highly beneficial for many individuals with severe hearing loss. These devices bypass the damaged portions of the ear and stimulate the auditory nerve directly, allowing the individual to perceive sound. Numerous studies have demonstrated improved speech perception, comprehension, and overall quality of life for recipients of cochlear implants (1).
However, it is crucial to recognize that the decision to pursue a cochlear implant is not without potential risks and uncertainties. The surgery itself carries inherent surgical and medical risks, including infection, damage to the inner ear structures, and potential complications related to anesthesia. Additionally, the technology behind cochlear implants is continuously evolving, and there is ongoing debate within the medical community about the age at which implantation is most appropriate and the long-term outcomes for recipients (2).
When considering the perspective of the Deaf community, it is essential to acknowledge their viewpoint that Deafness is not a disability but rather a linguistic and cultural identity. Many members of the Deaf community perceive cochlear implants as a threat to their unique Deaf culture, sign language, and shared experiences. They argue that promoting cochlear implants suggests a bias towards hearing and seeks to “fix” a perceived “deficiency” rather than embracing and valuing Deaf culture and identity (3).
In making this decision, the parents should consult with healthcare professionals, particularly specialists experienced in managing childhood hearing loss, such as pediatric otolaryngologists and audiologists. These professionals can provide detailed information about the child’s specific condition, available treatment options, potential outcomes, and the risks involved. The parents must also engage in open and honest conversations with members of the Deaf community and consider their perspectives.
Ultimately, the decision should prioritize the well-being and best interests of the child. It is crucial for the parents to consider factors such as the child’s overall health, their ability to access communication and education, and the potential impact on their social and emotional development. As this decision is deeply personal, it is important to respect the autonomy of the parents in making the final choice, while also considering the child’s right to make decisions about their own body as they grow older (4).
References:
1. National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. (2020). Cochlear Implants. Retrieved from
2. Ching, T. Y. C., & Marschark, M. (2018). Advances in the Spoken Language Development of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Children. Oxford University Press.
3. Lane, H. (1992). The Mask of Benevolence: Disabling the Deaf Community. Alfred Knopf.
4. Joint Committee on Infant Hearing. (2019). Year 2019 Position Statement: Principles and Guidelines for Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Programs. Pediatrics, 144(1), e20191309.
