Question

The nurse is preparing to communicate with an older client who is hearing impaired. Which intervention should be implemented initially?

Option 1: Speak loudly and clearly.
Option 2: Use written communication.
Option 3: Speak directly into the client's unaffected ear.
Option 4: Increase background noise to stimulate hearing.

Answer 1

When communicating with an older client who is hearing impaired, it is important to speak slowly and clearly.

Step-by-step explanation:

When communicating with an older client who is hearing impaired, the initial intervention should be to speak slowly and clearly. This will help the client better understand and follow the conversation. Speaking loudly may distort the sound and make it difficult to comprehend. Using written communication may be useful in certain situations, but it should not be the first intervention. Speaking directly into the client's unaffected ear may help improve sound perception, but it is not always necessary or feasible. Increasing background noise can actually make it more challenging for the client to hear.