Exam Guide
Communicating With a Client Who Has Hearing Loss
Psychosocial Needs · Question from the ATI PN Fundamentals 2023 Proctored Exam study set
Question: A nurse is communicating with a client who has significant hearing loss. Which action should the nurse take to promote communication?
Correct answer: Decrease background noise
Why this is the answer
Reducing competing background noise improves the client's ability to hear, distinguish, and understand speech.
The bigger concept
Hearing-impaired communication items favor environmental and positioning strategies over volume. Face the client at eye level in good light, reduce background noise, speak clearly at a normal pace and slightly lower pitch, do not shout or exaggerate lip movements, rephrase rather than repeat, and use written materials when needed. Confirm hearing aids are in and working before teaching.
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