Parental perceptions of characteristics and outcomes of children and families in the Pretoria cochlear implant programme

Abstract

In order to address the Pretoria Cochlear Implant Programme's (PCIP) need for an in-depth analysis of the variables related to outcomes of children with cochlear implants and their families, a comprehensive postal questionairre was used in a cross-sectional study employing quantitative methods. The aim was to determine the perceptions of parents/caregivers of children with cochlear implants in the PCIP of the children's outcomes, and to collate relevant data pertaining to 45 children and their families. Results indicated that several key factors played a role in determining a positive outcome in the children's audiological, linguistic, social and educational functioning leading to placement in an inclusive educational setting. The most important indicators were: early age at diagnosis, early intervention with hearing aids and early cochlear implantation. The importance of early intervention is emphasized. The study was a first attempt to document the outcomes of the PCIP, indicating a need to establish a computer database to store data of all clients, which can be used for research and regular programme audits.