Which practice is not recommended when communicating with a patient who has limited hearing?

Which practice is not recommended when communicating with a patient who has limited hearing?

• A. Shout to the patient from across the room.
• B. Face the patient and speak clearly.
• C. Write notes or use pictures as needed.
• D. Ask short questions and confirm understanding.

Answer: (A)

Shouting from across the room is not recommended because it doesn’t reliably improve understanding and can be uncomfortable or embarrassing for the patient, and it may distort speech. The best approach is to face the patient so they can use lip-reading and facial expressions, and to speak clearly at a normal pace. When needed, writing notes or using pictures provides visual support that can bridge gaps in hearing. Asking short questions and confirming understanding helps ensure the message was received correctly, reducing the chance of miscommunication.

Shouting from across the room is not recommended because it doesn’t reliably improve understanding and can be uncomfortable or embarrassing for the patient, and it may distort speech. The best approach is to face the patient so they can use lip-reading and facial expressions, and to speak clearly at a normal pace. When needed, writing notes or using pictures provides visual support that can bridge gaps in hearing. Asking short questions and confirming understanding helps ensure the message was received correctly, reducing the chance of miscommunication.