A nurse is performing a Weber test on a client who reports difficulty hearing in his left ear. The client informs the nurse that he can hear the tone louder in his left ear. Which of the following does this result indicate?

Choice A Reason: Providing written materials and visual aids is not necessary for a client who has hearing at 15 dB, which is considered normal hearing. Normal hearing ranges from 0 to 20 dB, meaning that the person can hear sounds that are as faint as 20 dB or less.

Choice B Reason: Using American Sign Language is not appropriate for a client who has hearing at 15 dB, which is considered normal hearing. American Sign Language is a form of communication that uses hand gestures, facial expressions, and body movements to convey meaning. It is mainly used by people who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Choice C Reason: Shouting at the client from 6 inches away is not advisable for a client who has hearing at 15 dB, which is considered normal hearing. Shouting can be perceived as rude or aggressive, and can damage the hearing of both the speaker and the listener.

Choice D Reason: Speaking to the client in an everyday conversational tone is the best action for a client who has hearing at 15 dB, which is considered normal hearing. Conversational speech ranges from 40 to 60 dB, meaning that the person can hear sounds that are as loud as 60 dB or less.

Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because standing directly in front of the client is not the priority action by the nurse when admitting a client who has a partial hearing loss. Standing directly in front of the client can enhance communication, but it is not as important as assessing the client's hearing status and needs.

Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because rephrasing statements the client does not hear is not the priority action by the nurse when admitting a client who has a partial hearing loss. Rephrasing statements can improve understanding, but it is not as essential as evaluating the client's hearing level and preferences.

Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because speaking using his usual tone of voice is not the priority action by the nurse when admitting a client who has a partial hearing loss. Speaking using his usual tone of voice may or may not be appropriate, depending on the client's hearing ability and comfort. The nurse should adjust his tone of voice based on the client's feedback and response.

Choice D Reason: This is the correct choice because determining if the client uses hearing aids is the priority action by the nurse when admitting a client who has a partial hearing loss. Hearing aids are devices that amplify sound and improve hearing for people with hearing loss. The nurse should determine if the client uses hearing aids, and if so, check their function, fit, and battery life. The nurse should also ask about any other assistive devices or strategies that the client uses to communicate effectively.