The nursing assistant (NA) is communicating with a client with a breathing tube that prevents the client from speaking. What is the best action for the NA to take?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The NA's best action is to have the client use a picture board to point to common needs, such as toileting, mouth care, etc., and have the client point to letters on the board to spell out words to communicate. A large breathing tube in the mouth with a securing device that limits lip movement may make it difficult for the NA to lip-read what the client tries to say. The client will tire easily with the extra effort to lip words and may become frustrated if the NA cannot successfully read lips. Asking yes and no questions and going through a set list of commonly needed items is not the best action because it will take longer for the client to have their needs met and may tire the client in the process. Anticipating needs and going through a set of actions is not the best action because the client may not need toileting, but may need a fan turned on, or some other need not met.

The Nursing Assistant (NA) Is Communicating with a Client with a Breathing