A nurse is teaching about delegation with a newly licensed nurse.
Which of the following statements if made by the newly licensed nurse indicates understanding?

Choice A rationale:

Guiding the client away from background noise is a helpful suggestion for a client with hearing loss, but in the context of reviewing discharge instructions, it may not be sufficient. The primary issue is not background noise but the ability of the client to hear and understand the nurse's instructions.

Choice B rationale:

Providing a copy of the instructions printed in Braille is not appropriate for a client with hearing loss. Braille is a tactile reading and writing system for people who are blind or visually impaired. It does not address the client's hearing loss.

Choice C rationale:

Standing next to the client when speaking is the most appropriate action for a nurse when reviewing discharge instructions with a client who has hearing loss. This allows the client to see the nurse's facial expressions, lip movements, and gestures, which can aid in understanding. It also minimizes the distance between the nurse's mouth and the client's ears, making it easier for the client to hear.

Choice D rationale:

While repeating phrases that the client misunderstands is a helpful communication strategy, it should be used in conjunction with standing close to the client, not as the sole method. Standing close and speaking clearly should be the primary approach to facilitate effective communication with a client who has hearing loss.

a. Using medical jargon

• Rationale: Medical jargon can be precise and efficient for communication among healthcare professionals. However, it can be confusing and intimidating for patients or non-medical staff, which is not therapeutic.

b. Active listening

• Rationale: Active listening involves fully focusing, understanding, responding and then remembering what is being said. It is a fundamental component of therapeutic communication as it shows respect and understanding for the speaker, builds trust, and helps to facilitate a deeper understanding of a patient’s perspective and needs.

c. Giving advice

• Rationale: While it might seem helpful to give advice, it can often disempower the patient or make them feel like they are not being heard. Therapeutic communication should be patient-centered and empowering.

d. Using closed-ended questions

• Rationale: Closed-ended questions can be useful for gathering specific information quickly. However, they limit the depth of response and can shut down communication, making them less therapeutic.

The correct answer isb. Active listening. This technique is a key component of therapeutic communication as it encourages a deeper understanding and is respectful and patient-centered. It helps in building a therapeutic nurse-patient relationship.