Lewis's Medical Surgical Nursing in Canada, 5th Edition - Nursing Management: Visual and Auditory Conditions Related

Review Lewis's Medical Surgical Nursing in Canada, 5th Edition - Nursing Management: Visual and Auditory Conditions related questions and content

Which of the following actions should the nurse take when assisting a totally blind patient to walk to the bathroom?

  • A. Take the patient by the arm and lead the patient slowly to the bathroom.
  • B. Have the patient place a hand on the nurse's shoulder and guide the patient.
  • C. Stay beside the patient and describe any obstacles on the path to the bathroom.
  • D. Walk slightly ahead of the patient and allow the patient to hold the nurse's elbow.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: When using the sighted-guide technique, the nurse walks slightly in front and to the side of the patient and has the patient hold the nurse's elbow. The other techniques are not as safe in assisting a blind patient.