Page 1962 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

Facilitating Communication

▪ Using written words if the client is able to see, read, and write
▪ Providing plenty of light in the room
▪ Getting the attention of the client before beginning to speak
▪ Facing the client when speaking
▪ Talking in a room without distracting noises

▪ Moving close to the client and speaking slowly and clearly
▪ Keeping hands and other objects away from the mouth when talking to the
client

▪ Talking in normal volume and at a lower pitch because shouting is not helpful
and higher frequencies are less easily heard
▪ Rephrasing sentences and repeating information

▪ Validating with the client the understanding of statements made by asking the
client to repeat what was said
▪ Reading lips

▪ Encouraging the client to wear glasses when talking to someone to improve
vision for lip reading
▪ Using sign language, which combines speech with hand movements that signify
letters, words, or phrases
▪ Using telephone amplifiers
▪ Using flashing lights that are activated by ringing of the telephone or doorbell

▪ Using specially trained dogs to help the client be aware of sound and alert the
client to potential danger

Box 56-6

Client Education Regarding a Hearing Aid

▪ Begin using the hearing aid slowly to adjust to the device.
▪ Adjust the volume to the minimal hearing level to prevent feedback squealing.
▪ Concentrate on the sounds that are to be heard and to filter out background
noise.
▪ Clean the ear mold and cannula per manufacturer’s instructions.
▪ Keep the hearing aid dry.
▪ Turn the hearing aid off before removing from the ear to prevent squealing
feedback; remove the battery when not in use.
▪ Keep extra batteries on hand.
▪ Keep the hearing aid in a safe place.

▪ Prevent hairsprays, oils, or other hair and face products from coming into
contact with the receiver of the hearing aid.
▪ Instruct the client to keep the hearing aid in the proper environmental climate as

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