Attitudes the greatest barrier.

Thank you Pauline Yorke for the enlightening article "Empowering those with disabilities", published in February (p18).

As a nurse with an impairment (I have no legs), I found this article informative and one that has, hopefully, challenged attitudes of not only nurses, but also all health professionals.

While I may have no legs, what really disables me are the barriers within my community. When I am in my wheelchair and I go to catch a bus, I cannot get on because of the steps. That is a physical barrier. Unfortunately, I find people's attitudes the greatest barrier. Negative attitudes directed at those with impairments are alive and well in New Zealand.

When I lost my first leg, the director of the government agency I worked for in Wellington wanted me dismissed as "being an amputee, I would offend the junior staff".

A young couple was overheard commenting on my appearance (I was wearing shorts with prosthetic poles). They said I should not be seen like this in public. Are they suggesting all people with visible impairments should not be seen? Do those with glasses and hearing aids wear paper bags on their heads to hide their impairment? I don't think so.

I wear shorts for physiological reasons. My stumps are enveloped in numerous layers of socks and neoprene sleeves and it does get a little warm. Besides, wearing shorts makes it easier when adjustments need to be made.

Being in a wheel chair (at times) does not make me hearing impaired or mentally incapacitated. While I do have a highly developed level of stupidity, this is a personality trait, not a physiological deficit. Yet, when I am in a wheel chair, people (including hearth professionals) will either speak loudly or speak directly to my support person.

Pauline Yorke concludes that her experience with a young person with an impairment has helped her discover a new maturity in herself and her nursing practice. She can now truly value the uniqueness of others. Hopefully more nurses and other hearth professionals will do like wise. Remember, the biggest disability is a bad attitude.

Brent South, EN, RN, ADN, BA (Nsg), Dunedin