When a patient reports sudden worsening of long-term bilateral hearing loss, what should be the immediate action?

When a patient experiences a sudden worsening of long-term bilateral hearing loss, the immediate action should be to make a medical referral. This is essential because sudden changes in hearing can be indicative of various underlying health issues that require prompt medical evaluation. Conditions such as sudden sensorineural hearing loss, infections, or other neurological concerns must be assessed by a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Addressing sudden changes in hearing is vital, as these changes can signal serious medical conditions that may progress if not treated promptly. By referring the patient for medical evaluation, you ensure they receive the necessary diagnostic tests and potential interventions, which could improve their outcome.

Fitting the patient with amplification without a thorough medical assessment may delay necessary medical care and could potentially exacerbate any existing conditions. Suggesting a follow-up in two months could risk the patient’s health, and doing nothing or waiting does not address the urgency needed in such cases. Therefore, making a medical referral is the most responsible and crucial first step in this scenario.