The nurse is caring for a client with partial hearing loss. Which interventions would be appropriate to promote effective communication? Select all that apply. A)Dim lights to prevent overstimulation B)Post a hearing impairment sign on the client's door C)Raise voice to speak more loudly D)Speak directly facing the client E)Tell family to take hearing aids home so they will not be lost

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Effective communication is the key to ensuring the safety of clients with hearing impairment. To avoid startling the client, the nurse should approach the client from the front and visibly gain the client's attention before speaking. The nurse should stand directly facing the client so that the speaker's face can be seen clearly (Option D). Facial expressions and gestures can help make the meaning clear. If clients communicate with sign language, a professional sign language interpreter should be used when needed. The nurse may post a hearing impairment sign at the head of the bed or on the door to inform all caregivers of the safety concern (Option B). (Option A) Many clients with hearing impairment will lip-read. The room lights should be on so that the speaker's lips and face are well illuminated. (Option C) When speaking to a client with hearing loss, speech should be directed toward the least-affected ear and should be at a normal volume. Raising the voice to speak loudly creates a higher pitch that is harder to understand. (Option E) The nurse should ensure that any hearing aids are functional and in place before attempting to speak to the client. Educational objective: When speaking to a client with hearing impairment, the nurse should have the room lights on, directly face the client, speak at a normal volume toward the least-affected ear, and ensure that any hearing aids are functional and in place. Hearing impairment signs may be posted to promote safety.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Client with Partial Hearing