adult health Flashcards
Hearing Loss & Vertigo (5 cards)
Hearing impairment:
When speaking with a client who is hearing impaired, face the client when speaking, speak slowly and clearly, and do not raise your voice. Decrease background noise and
ensure the room is well-lit.
Hearing aids:
Teach client to change batteries
regularly and clean the ear mold with a soft brush or toothpick to remove debris. Store
in a dry, cool place. Clients should gradually
increase volume and wear time.
Ear irrigation:
Do not irrigate the ear if there
is a suspected infection (otitis media) or perforated tympanic membrane. To irrigate,
use body-temperature solution and direct the stream toward the side or top of the canal,
not directly at the tympanic membrane. Stop immediately if pain, dizziness, or nausea occur.
Post-ear surgery:
Post-surgical teaching
includes instructing the client to lie with the operative ear up, avoid activities that increase
ear pressure (air travel, sudden movements, lifting, bending, straining), and notify HCP of
excessive drainage.
Vertigo:
Teach clients with vertigo to avoid standing on chairs and ladders, which can trigger
vertigo. During vertigo attacks, place the client on
fall precautions and have them avoid sudden head movement.
