Final answer:
When assisting a resident with a hearing impairment, the NA should communicate effectively by facing them directly, speaking clearly, ensuring proper lighting, checking hearing aid functionality, minimizing background noise, and using gestures or written communication if needed.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a resident has a hearing impairment, a Nursing Assistant (NA) should take several steps to ensure effective communication. It is important to face the resident directly and ensure that the room has adequate lighting so that the resident can see the NA's face and lips, which can aid in lip reading. Moreover, the NA should speak clearly and at a moderate pace, using simple sentences and avoiding complex language that might be difficult to understand. If the resident uses a hearing aid, the NA should make sure that the device is functioning properly. It's also helpful to reduce background noise and to use gestures or written communication if necessary.
Providing care that accommodates the resident's needs can significantly enhance their quality of life and ensure that healthcare services are accessible and effective. Patient-centered care, such as this, is paramount in the healthcare setting, especially for residents with sensory impairments.