O Olhar do Intérprete de Libras sobre o atendimento em saúde ao paciente surdo

Abstract

In the healthcare context, communication plays a fundamental role in establishing bonds among professionals, patients, and their families; thus, appropriate measures to overcome communication barriers with deaf patients are essential. This study aimed to understand the experiences, perceptions, challenges, and feelings of Brazilian Sign Language (Libras) interpreters in the context of healthcare assistance to deaf individuals. This is a qualitative, cross-sectional, and observational study, using a descriptive exploratory research approach. Participants were selected through the snowball sampling technique. Data collection took place in Campina Grande, Paraíba, in the Northeast region of Brazil, starting from the municipality’s Libras Interpretation Center, which provides services aimed at facilitating access for people with hearing impairments to public services through the support of interpreters. Ten Libras interpreters participated in the study, with the sample size determined by information saturation. Data were obtained through semi-structured interviews, conducted individually by the principal researcher and recorded via audio, then fully transcribed into Portuguese using the Transcriber Bot software. In addition, a field diary was used as a research tool. Thematic Content Analysis, as proposed by Bardin, was employed to analyze the data, with the support of the qualitative analysis software ATLAS.ti. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of UEPB, in accordance with Resolution No. 466/2012 of the Brazilian National Health Council. The findings reveal that Libras interpreters experience healthcare mediation as a complex process, marked by feelings of responsibility, tension, and ethical commitment to the deaf population. Their perceptions highlight a lack of institutional preparedness, weak professional recognition, and challenges in collaborating with healthcare teams. Nevertheless, they assume an active role in promoting more accessible and inclusive care, reinforcing the need for public policies that value and effectively integrate these professionals into the healthcare system.