A hospital stay can be an uncertain experience for anyone, but for individuals with hearing loss, it can present additional challenges. Effective communication is critical in a healthcare setting, and taking steps to prepare can help ensure you receive the best care possible. Here’s a guide on how to prepare for a hospital stay when you have hearing loss.
Inform the Hospital Staff About Your Hearing Loss
One of the most important steps is to ensure that all relevant hospital staff are aware of your hearing loss. When you check in, inform the admissions staff and ask that your hearing loss be noted in your medical record. Make sure to communicate this to every medical professional you encounter, including nurses, doctors and technicians.
It can be helpful to bring a printed card or a badge that clearly states your hearing impairment. This visual reminder can alert busy hospital staff to your needs, ensuring they take the time to communicate effectively with you. Additionally, consider using a personal advocate, such as a family member or friend, who can assist in communicating your needs and ensuring you understand medical instructions.
Bring Essential Hearing Accessories
Pack a hospital bag with all the necessary hearing accessories to make your stay more comfortable. This includes your hearing aids, extra batteries or a charger if your devices are rechargeable. Don’t forget to include a protective case to keep your hearing aids safe when not in use.
If you use an assistive listening device, such as a personal amplifier or a smartphone app designed for people with hearing loss, be sure to bring it along. These devices can help you hear conversations more clearly in a noisy hospital environment. Additionally, consider bringing a notepad and pen for written communication, which can be a useful backup if you have difficulty hearing spoken instructions.
Request Assistive Services and Devices
Hospitals are required by law to provide accommodations for patients with disabilities, including hearing loss and nearly one in five adults report some trouble hearing. Before your hospital stay, contact the hospital’s patient services or accessibility office to discuss your needs. Ask about the availability of devices to assist with accommodating your hearing loss.
You may also request a sign language interpreter if you use American Sign Language (ASL) as your primary mode of communication. Hospitals should have procedures in place to provide interpreters, either in person or via video remote interpreting services. Make sure to request these services well in advance of your stay to ensure they are available when you need them.
Ensure Clear Communication During Your Stay
During your hospital stay, take proactive steps to ensure clear communication with healthcare providers. Ask doctors and nurses to speak slowly and clearly, facing you directly so you can lip-read if needed. Make a habit of repeating their instructions so they can correct if there is a misunderstanding as well.
Use visual aids whenever possible. Ask for written instructions for medications, treatments and discharge plans. Visual aids can help you understand complex information and ensure you follow medical advice correctly once you leave the hospital.
Preparing for a hospital stay when you have hearing loss involves a combination of clear communication, bringing the right accessories and utilizing available assistive services. Taking these steps will not only help you feel more in control but also ensure that you receive the best possible care during your hospital stay.
To learn more about navigating life with hearing loss or to schedule a hearing test for you or a loved one, contact Heuser Hearing Institute today.