A nurse is caring for an older adult client who has a hearing aid.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take when the client reports hearing a whistling sound from the hearing aid?

Choice A rationale

Cleaning the hearing aid with isopropyl alcohol is not recommended as it can damage the device. Proper cleaning methods involve using specialized cleaning tools and gentle cleaning solutions.

Choice B rationale

Turning the hearing aid off for 5 minutes is not likely to resolve the whistling sound, which is often caused by feedback issues that need to be addressed through other means such as adjusting the fit or volume.

Choice C rationale

Soaking the hearing aid in warm water is inappropriate and can cause irreparable damage. Hearing aids are electronic devices and should not be submerged in water.

Choice D rationale

Decreasing the volume on the hearing aid can help reduce the whistling sound, which is commonly caused by feedback. Proper fitting and volume adjustments are key to preventing this issue.

Choice A rationale

This statement indicates that the client understands advance directives allow them to make decisions about their care while they are still capable. This reflects the purpose of advance directives, which is to respect and uphold the client’s autonomy and choices regarding their medical care.

Choice B rationale

This statement is incorrect because clients can change their advance directives or living will at any time. The purpose of these documents is to provide flexibility and ensure that the client's current wishes are followed.

Choice C rationale

This statement is incorrect. Once a living will is signed and witnessed or notarized, it becomes legally binding without a waiting period. The delay mentioned here is not a part of the advance directive process.

Choice D rationale

This statement is not accurate. A living will usually includes decisions about life support, and a separate consent form is not typically needed for those decisions. The client’s wishes regarding life support would be documented in the living will itself.