Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

When assessing a 76-year-old client with hearing loss, what type of tones should a nurse use?

1. Higher-pitched tones

2. Lower-pitched tones

3. Only written communication

4. Both high and low tones

The correct answer is: Lower-pitched tones

Using lower-pitched tones when communicating with a client who has hearing loss is effective because these sounds are generally easier for individuals with hearing impairments to perceive. As people age, sensorineural hearing loss often causes a decrease in the ability to hear higher-pitched sounds while lower frequencies may still be audible. Therefore, speaking in a lower pitch helps ensure that the client can better understand and process the information being communicated. While the other options may provide additional avenues for communication (like written forms or combining tones), focusing on lower-pitched tones directly addresses the auditory challenges faced by older adults. This approach facilitates clearer communication, minimizes frustration, and enhances the nurse-client interaction.