Which communication strategy is recommended when interacting with a patient who has a hearing impairment?

• A. Do not wear a mask when talking
• B. Face the patient when talking (do not talk fast)
• C. Speak in a very loud voice
• D. Rely solely on written notes

Answer: (B)

Facing the patient while talking allows them to read your lips and observe facial expressions, which many with hearing impairment rely on to understand speech. It also helps you maintain eye contact and gauge comprehension. Speaking at a comfortable, unhurried pace with clear articulation further supports understanding, since rapid speech can blur words and reduce comprehension. Wearing a mask can hide lip movements and facial cues, making communication harder, and shouting loudly isn’t a substitute for clarity. Relying only on written notes may leave out context and can be difficult for someone with limited literacy or different languages. So the best approach is to face the patient and speak clearly at a moderate pace to promote accurate understanding.