The nurse is caring for an older adult client who is newly diagnosed w

QUESTION

The nurse is caring for an older adult client who is newly diagnosed with diabetes and has a low literacy level. Which of the following guidelines for teaching low-literacy clients should the nurse use when working with this client?

a. Teach the largest amount possible in each teaching session.
b. Sequence key behavior information last when teaching the client.
c. Use symbols and images with which the client is familiar.
d. Use words that are abstract and provide teaching in long sentences.

ANSWER:

ANS: C
Educationally disadvantaged or functionally illiterate people are interested in learning, but nurses need to adapt teaching situations to accommodate literacy learning differences. Marks (2009) suggests having written materials modified to six- to eighth-grade reading levels and providing lists of key instructions for use after visits. Using symbols and images with which the client is familiar helps overcome the barriers of low literacy. Taking the time to understand the client’s use of words and phrases provides the nurse with concrete words and ideas that can be used as building blocks in helping the client understand difficult health-related concepts. Otherwise, the client may misunderstand what the nurse is saying. It is also important to check with the client about the environmental infrastructure needed to implement self-management strategies. Don’t assume that the client understands the implications of a clinical recommendation.