How should you communicate with a patient with a hearing impairment?

When communicating with a patient who has a hearing impairment, it's crucial to ensure that the message is conveyed effectively and respectfully. Communicating face-to-face helps to establish a connection, allowing the patient to see your facial expressions and lip movements, which can aid in their understanding. Speaking clearly—without shouting—enhances the likelihood that the patient will comprehend what you're saying, as they may rely on visual cues along with any sound they can hear.

Using written communication exclusively may not always be practical in every situation, as it can limit the interaction and reduce the immediacy of communication. Speaking loudly is generally not effective for individuals with hearing impairments; they may not only struggle with volume but also with clarity. Avoiding gestures is counterproductive since gestures can provide essential visual context. Therefore, effective communication with this patient demographic involves maintaining eye contact, speaking clearly, and using appropriate gestures to enhance understanding.