How should a nurse respond to a patient who cannot read?

• A. Use plain language, provide teach-back, and offer verbal explanations and demonstrations.
• B. Provide written instructions only.
• C. Speak slowly in long sentences.
• D. Ask family member to read it for them.

Answer: (A)

When a patient cannot read, the essential approach is to communicate in plain language, use multiple teaching methods, and verify understanding through teach-back. Plain language means using simple words, short sentences, and avoiding medical jargon, so the patient can grasp the information without needing to read it. Providing verbal explanations together with demonstrations lets the patient hear the steps and see how to perform tasks, which supports memory and skill acquisition. The teach-back method—asking the patient to explain in their own words or show how they’ll do something—confirms they truly understood and lets you correct any misunderstandings right away.

Giving written instructions alone doesn’t address the literacy barrier and may lead to misinterpretation or nonadherence. Simply speaking slowly in long sentences can still be confusing, especially if complex terminology is used or if the patient struggles with processing information. Relying on a family member to read for the patient can invade privacy and autonomy and doesn’t ensure the patient comprehends or can perform the necessary steps independently.