How should a CNA assist a patient who is visually impaired?

Assisting a visually impaired patient effectively requires a compassionate and supportive approach. Offering your arm for guidance while describing the environment combines physical support with important contextual information. This method allows the patient to feel secure and understand their surroundings, which can reduce anxiety and promote more confident navigation.

By guiding the patient this way, a CNA ensures they are connected to the caregiver's movements, which helps in maintaining the patient’s independence while still providing necessary assistance. Describing the environment can also help the patient prepare for any obstacles or changes in the terrain, providing a more comprehensive support system.

This approach takes into account the dignity and autonomy of the patient, which is crucial in a caregiving setting. It encourages a balance between safety and independence, empowering the patient as much as possible. Other methods, such as relying solely on verbal descriptions or allowing the patient to navigate independently, neglect the support aspect and may lead to increased risk of falls or confusion.