Ask how your patients want materials (recorded, large print [18-point type], via e-mail, etc.). Also, figure out a system that works for the patient to mark medications. For example, have the pharmacist put three rubber bands on a bottle of pills that should be taken three times a day.
Always read aloud what you write in the medical record.
Have all staff give their names and titles when entering the examination room, even if they have name tags.
Speak directly to the patient rather than asking the sighted person in the room, “Does he…?”
If the patient has a guide dog, ask before petting or greeting the animal.
Tell the patient what procedure you are about to do, and let him or her feel the equipment first if possible. Have the patient perform dressing changes, etc., that he or she will need to do at home, so you can coach.
Say “goodbye” before leaving the room so the patient is not left talking to himself or herself.
If you forget any of these tips and the interaction goes poorly, apologize and try again. It won’t be the first time someone has been awkward about the patient’s visual impairment, and it won’t be the last. We appreciate being allowed to tell you how we prefer things.
