Chapter 7 Verbal and Written Communications 141
Visually Impaired Patients
Patients with visual impairments present unique communication chal-
lenges. Verbal communication is one of the main ways a visually challenged
person communicates with the outside world. When working with a visu-
ally impaired person, you must hone your verbal skills so you are able to
communicate successfully with your patient.
Many blind patients will be accompanied by someone who will help
them adjust to the environment. However, the patient may be left with you
temporarily, perhaps in a treatment room. Introduce yourself and address
the patient by name, so he or she knows you are addressing them and not
another person in the room. If the patient is standing, guide the patient to a
chair by placing his or her hand on the chair. Remember to ask the patient
what assistance is needed instead of assuming what is needed.
Ensure that the patient is included in discussions about procedures
and medical plans. Visually impaired individuals can still hear and under-
stand what is being said. Be sure to inform the patient what you are doing
throughout each step of the procedure. For instance, you do not want the
patient to be startled when you apply a blood pressure cuff. Let the patient
know what you are about to do by saying, “Now I’m going to place the cuff
around your arm.”
Visually impaired patients may have a service animal (Figure 7.5). The
animal must stay with the patient throughout the entire visit, including
when the patient visits other facilities. Remember that the service animal is
working and should not be petted or otherwise distracted.
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Figure 7.5 Do not distract a service dog who is accompanying a visually impaired patient.