What should you do if a patient has difficulty understanding instructions?

Providing written instructions is a highly effective strategy when a patient has difficulty understanding verbal instructions. Written materials can help clarify the information and allow the patient to refer back to it as needed. This approach accommodates various learning styles and can enhance comprehension, especially for individuals who may struggle with auditory processing or language barriers.

In addition, written instructions give patients the opportunity to take their time to understand the information at their own pace, reducing anxiety about missing important details during a verbal explanation. This method promotes better patient engagement and empowerment in their own care process, facilitating improved communication between the patient and caregiver.