To enhance understanding, what technique should a medical assistant use when giving instructions to a patient who is hard of hearing?

Providing visual aids or written materials is an effective technique when giving instructions to a patient who is hard of hearing. This approach allows the patient to have a reference that they can look at, which helps reinforce the verbal instructions. Visual aids such as diagrams, charts, or even simply written instructions can bridge the communication gap and enhance the patient's understanding of the information being conveyed.

Additionally, written materials can be taken home for further review, ensuring that the patient can revisit important details at their own pace. This is particularly important as reliance on auditory information alone may not be sufficient for someone with hearing difficulties. By incorporating visual elements into the communication process, the medical assistant enhances comprehension and retains patient engagement in their care plan.