Demonstrate communicating with a visually impaired client/resident/patient.

Demonstration includes

• identifying any assistive devices a client/resident/patient uses
• glasses
• special lighting
• knocking on the door and introducing oneself when entering the room
• positioning so that a client/resident/patient is not looking into a bright light or bright window
• positioning oneself in a client’s/resident’s/patient’s line of sight
• ensuring adequate light in the room
• encouraging a client/resident/patient to wear glasses
• using the face of a clock to describe the location of items
• moving items only with permission.

Refer to Unit II in Nurse Aide Curriculum Links to an external site., Virginia Board of Nursing, Virginia Department of Health Professions, 2018.

Process/Skill Questions:

• Why is it important to face a client/resident/patient and speak clearly and slowly?
• Why is it important to be familiar with any assistive devices a client/resident/patient uses?
• What is included in the maintenance, use, and storage of visual aids?
• Why is it even more important to identify oneself immediately upon entering the room when a client/resident/patient is visually impaired?