The nurse and a 69-year-old client are discussing the client’s report

The nurse and a 69-year-old client are discussing the client’s report of “Not hearing as well as I used to; I must be getting old.”

Which of the following nursing responses is most therapeutic regarding the client’s assumption of the cause of the diminished hearing?
1. “What makes you think you don’t hear as well as you used to?”
2. “Well, hearing loss does seem to be more of a problem as we age.”
3. “You may be right, but I suggest you see an otolaryngologist just to be sure.”
4. “Do you turn the television up louder, or is it difficult to hear on the telephone?”

ANSWER

ANS: 3
Be careful to not automatically assume that a client’s sensory problem is related to advancing age. The suggestion to see a otolaryngologist is the most therapeutic because it provides a means to rule out more serious conditions. The remaining options either attempt to further identify the symptoms of the client’s problems or simply agree with the theory of aging.