State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) Practice Exam

How can a nurse aide effectively communicate with a client who has hearing loss?

1. Speak in a high pitched tone of voice.

2. Stand behind the client when speaking.

3. Speak in a loud and slow manner.

4. Look directly at the client when speaking.

The correct answer is: Look directly at the client when speaking.

Looking directly at the client when speaking is crucial for effective communication, especially with individuals who have hearing loss. This approach allows the client to see facial expressions, lip movements, and other non-verbal cues that can aid in understanding the message being conveyed. People with hearing loss often rely on visual cues to supplement their hearing. When a caregiver maintains eye contact, it fosters a sense of connection and attentiveness, enhancing the overall communication process. In contrast, speaking in a high-pitched tone is generally not advisable, as many people with hearing loss find it harder to perceive high frequencies. Similarly, standing behind the client can hinder their ability to read lips and see facial expressions, which are essential for comprehension. Although speaking loudly may initially seem helpful, it can be counterproductive as well; shouting or talking too loudly can distort speech and make it more challenging for those with hearing impairment to understand the conversation. Thus, direct eye contact is the best option among the choices provided.