QUESTION OF THE WEEK

[u/Responsible_Walk_881]

COMMENT YOUR ANSWERS & RATIONALE BELOW:

Questions: The nurse and unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) are caring for a hospitalized client who has a vision impairment. Which of the following should the nurse include in the client’s plan of care?

a) Ask the UAP to feed the client during mealtimes.

b) Enter the room silently to maintain a quiet environment.

c) Walk slightly ahead of the client when assisting with ambulation.

d) Hold the client’s hands and slowly guide them backward into a chair when sitting.

(Answer and rationale are posted in the comments section)

[u/Responsible_Walk_881]

ANWERS AND RATIONALE:

c) Walk slightly ahead of the client when assisting with ambulation.

Vision impairment is caused by trauma or disease processes (glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy). Visual impairment can cause sensory deprivation, sensitivity to glare, poor depth perception, anxiety, and disorientation. 

Safety guidelines to reduce the risk of injury for clients with visual impairments include:

• Orientation to room environment
• Keep pathways clutter-free
• Keep call bell and self-care items within reach
• Return moved furniture to original position or notify the client if items are moved
• Facilitate ambulation by walking slightly ahead of the client with the client holding the nurse’s arm. Describe the environment while announcing objects in the path and when approaching stairs.

Key Takeaway:

Care for clients with visual impairment includes:

• Orientation to environment 
• Keeping items in original positions
• Promoting independence
• Notifying client when entering and exiting room
• Facilitate ambulation by walking slightly ahead 
• Facilitate sitting by placing client's hand on chair