RN Exam Practice
Reduction of Risk PotentialQuestion 1514 of 2368

An older client smiles and nods but answers questions inappropriately. Which technique should the nurse use to screen the client's hearing?

  1. A Snellen chart read from across the room
  2. Reading printed material at close range
  3. Light touch applied to the soles of the feet
  4. A whisper test performed from behind the seated client
Show answer

Correct answer: A whisper test performed from behind the seated client

A whisper test is performed while standing behind the seated client. Older adults with hearing loss may pretend to hear to avoid embarrassment.

Source: Nursing Fundamentals, 2nd edition (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2024), Sensory Impairments: Assessment. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Practice the topic "Reduction of Risk Potential"

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026