CNA Certification (Written Exam)Communication and Psychosocial NeedsMedium
A nurse aide is caring for a resident with significant hearing loss. Which technique will most likely improve the resident's understanding?
- ASpeak loudly in a high-pitched tone from across the room
- BRepeat the same sentence rapidly several times
- CCover the mouth while speaking to reduce distracting movement
- DSpeak in a low-pitched voice at a normal volume while facing the resident
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Speak in a low-pitched voice at a normal volume while facing the resident
Age-related hearing loss typically affects high-pitched sounds first, so a lower-pitched voice spoken clearly while facing the resident is easier to understand. Shouting distorts sound and does not address pitch loss, and covering the mouth removes helpful visual cues like lip movement.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Shouting distorts speech and raises pitch, making it harder to understand.
- B. Rapid repetition without clarity does not help the resident process words.
- C. Covering the mouth removes visual/lip-reading cues that assist communication.
Pitch and Hearing Loss
Most age-related hearing loss affects high-frequency sounds first, so lowering voice pitch (not volume) improves understanding.
- Presbycusis affects high pitches most
- Face the resident so they can see lips/expressions
- Shouting distorts sound and can seem aggressive
Memory trick: Low and slow, face them so they know.