A nurse is caring for a child with hearing impairment. Which action should the nurse prioritize to support the child’s communication development?

A. Determine the child’s preferred method of communication: Identifying whether the child uses sign language, lip reading, gestures, or assistive devices is essential for effective communication. Tailoring interactions to the child’s preferred method promotes language development, social interaction, and learning opportunities. B. Assess the child’s hearing and visual capabilities: While important for overall assessment, these evaluations provide baseline data but do not directly facilitate immediate communication strategies or support language development. C. Encourage the parent to have the child participate in activities that promote adaptation: Participation in adaptive activities supports social and emotional growth, yet without knowing the child’s preferred communication method, these interactions may be less effective for promoting language and communication skills. D. Serve meals at the child’s usual mealtimes: Maintaining routine mealtimes supports predictability and general care, but it does not directly address communication development or language acquisition.