A hospital stay can be an uncertain experience for anyone, but for individuals with hearing loss, it can present additional challenges. Effective communication is important during hospital stays and in a healthcare setting. By preparing adequately, you can help ensure you receive the best care possible. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to prepare for a hospital stay when you have hearing loss.
Hospital Stay Preparation
Inform the Hospital Staff About Your Hearing Loss
Approximately 15% of adults report some trouble hearing. Therefore, hospital staff has likely cared for people with hearing loss in the past and should be able to provide accommodations. One of the most important steps in preparing for a hospital stay with hearing loss is to ensure that all relevant hospital staff are aware of your hearing loss. Follow these tips:
- At check-in: Inform the admissions staff about your hearing loss and ask that it be noted in your medical record.
- Throughout your stay: Communicate your hearing loss to every medical professional you encounter, including nurses, doctors and technicians.
- Visual reminders: Bring a printed card or badge that clearly states your hearing loss. This helps busy hospital staff to remember your needs quickly.
- Personal advocate: Consider using a family member or friend to 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:
- Hearing aids: Bring your hearing aids along with extra batteries or a charger if your devices are rechargeable.
- Protective case: Include a protective case to keep your hearing aids safe when not in use.
- Assistive listening devices: If you use devices like personal amplifiers or smartphone apps designed for hearing loss, bring them to help hear conversations more clearly in a noisy environment.
- Notepad and pen: These can be useful for written communication 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. Here’s how to ensure you get the assistance you need:
- Pre-admission contact: Before your stay, contact the hospital’s patient services or accessibility office to discuss your needs.
- Sign language interpreter: If you use American Sign Language (ASL) as your primary mode of communication, request a sign language interpreter. Hospitals should provide interpreters either in person or via video remote interpreting services. Request these services well in advance to ensure availability.
Ensure Clear Communication During Your Stay
Proactive steps during your hospital stay can help ensure clear communication with healthcare providers:
- Clear speech: Ask doctors and nurses to speak slowly and clearly, facing you directly so you can lip-read if needed.
- Confirm understanding: Repeat instructions back to the doctor to ensure you have understood them correctly.
- Written instructions: Request 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 clear communication, bringing the right accessories and utilizing available accommodations. These steps will help you feel more in control and ensure you receive the best possible care.
To learn more about navigating life with hearing loss or to schedule a hearing test for you or a loved one, contact Hearing Services of Santa Barbara today.
