A hearing impaired patient is admitted to the hospital. Which of the following is the best way for the nurse to communicate effectively with this patient?

Face the patient and speak directly with a clear tone.

Explanation

• Hearing impairment may include the sensorineural (nerve-related) type, conductive type (which affects the outer or middle ear), or a mixed-type hearing loss.

• The best way to communicate effectively with the hearing impaired person is to face him/her and speak clearly so that they may benefit from adequate volume and also the visual reinforcement of seeing you speak.

• Incorrect: It is best to speak into the nonimpaired ear.

• Incorrect: Shouting is not effective for people with sensorineural damage.

• Incorrect: The first-line intervention is to speak directly and clearly. If the person still does not understand, written communication can be another option.

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