Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

Date of Degree

6-2024

Document Type

Capstone Project

Degree Name

Au.D.

Program

Audiology

Advisor

Michelle MacRoy-Higgins

Subject Categories

Speech and Hearing Science | Speech Pathology and Audiology

Keywords

face masks, healthcare, hearing loss

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to conduct a systematic review of the literature to gather information about strategies to use when communicating with people with hearing loss, specifically in healthcare settings or environments where face masks are frequently used. The compiled literature was used to establish the best practices for healthcare providers to use when communicating with their patients with hearing loss, especially when utilizing face masks.

Methods: A comprehensive search of the literature was conducted using the Google Scholar, PubMed, and MEDLINE Complete databases. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) was used to identify and screen research articles that were relevant to this study. A total of fourteen studies met the inclusion criteria.

Results: The distribution of the categories across all studies was similar to those specifically recommended for use with face masks. The most frequent recommendations include the use of additional technologies, speech changes from the communication partner, and access to facial cues. When using face masks, recommended strategies have a greater emphasis on the use of additional technologies, specifically those that provide written resources.

Discussion: To compensate for the non-ideal listening conditions within healthcare settings, medical providers should make appropriate adjustments when communicating with patients with hearing loss with additional considerations to account for the acoustic and visual changes that occur when wearing a face mask. The best practices for healthcare providers focus on limiting background noise, speaking clearly, and providing access to facial cues. When using a face mask, additional use of written materials and assistive technologies should be considered. In healthcare settings, providers should prioritize strategies that can easily be incorporated into their daily routine.

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