Improving communication between healthcare professionals and deaf and hard of hearing patients

Hearing loss is prevalent in the geriatric population. Healthcare systems and providers are challenged to meet communication needs in hearing impaired adults in the acute care setting. Patients with impaired-hearing pose risk to themselves and the healthcare system. Healthcare systems can utilize the expertise of advanced practice nurses, especially those with a geriatric focus to develop strategic imperatives aimed at addressing the unique needs of older adults patients with hearing impairments. Instituting a practice change using the personal amplifier device for older adult patients with hearing impairment is an innovative approach to enhancing effective communication and care delivery between patients and the healthcare interprofessional team. Innovative strategies include understanding personal amplifier devices, developing methods to identify patients who present with hearing loss, and provide interdisciplinary education and training to providers. Advanced practice nurses are ideal to function as change agents in the improvement of care for the hearingimpaired older adult.