What position should a medical assistant choose when communicating with a hard of hearing patient?

When communicating with a hard of hearing patient, facing the patient while speaking is essential. This position allows the patient to see facial expressions, lip movements, and body language, which are crucial for understanding and processing verbal communication. Many individuals with hearing difficulties rely on visual cues in addition to auditory information to comprehend what is being said. By facing the patient, the medical assistant enhances the likelihood of effective communication and minimizes misunderstandings.

Furthermore, standing beside the patient or speaking from across the room would likely hinder visibility and auditory reception. Looking down while speaking could obscure the speaker's mouth and expressions, making it even more challenging for the patient to follow the conversation. Therefore, facing the patient is the most effective strategy for promoting clear communication in this context.