Sidestepper,
I laughed at your IQ queston of docs when they don't seem to get that one's hearing is off. I offered to wear a sign saying "Deaf" but would have to have it pinned on (no pins allowed as guess you can commit suicide with a pin) and no string to make it a necklace sign as string ranks up there with pins.
I say we make it mandatory for all docs/nurses/aides to understand some simple signs like, "coffee" for the a.m. and "I need a real blanket. This thin sheet isn't warm enough" for night. I'm sure you can come up with some others.
But you did give me a chuckle