What should you do when communicating with hearing-impaired patients?

When communicating with hearing-impaired patients, positioning yourself so that the patient can see your lips while speaking slowly and distinctly is crucial for effective communication. This approach allows the patient to utilize lip-reading as a supplemental means of understanding what is being said, which can significantly enhance comprehension, especially for those who rely on visual cues.

In addition, speaking slowly and clearly helps to convey your message without overwhelming the patient with speed, enabling them to process the information more readily. This strategy is sensitive to their needs and fosters a more inclusive and respectful interaction.

Other methods, such as shouting, may distort speech and are often ineffective. Relying solely on written communication can be limiting since not all hearing-impaired individuals are proficient readers or have the same literacy levels. Speaking as fast as possible could further hinder understanding and should be avoided in favor of clear and deliberate speech. Thus, the recommended approach is to ensure clarity and visibility by being mindful of how you communicate physically and verbally, which is embodied in the correct answer.