What it means
A core nursing duty. The nurse finds out what the client already knows, how they learn best and what gets in the way (language, reading level, pain, fear), then teaches in plain words with demonstrations and written material. Topics include drugs, diet, wound care, warning signs and when to seek help. Learning is then checked.
For the nurse
Use teach-back: ask the client to explain or show in their own words what they learned. Use a trained medical interpreter when needed, not a family member. Statements on the exam that show the client misunderstood mean more teaching is needed.
In a chart
"Insulin teaching done; client demonstrated drawing up and injecting dose correctly."
At a glance
| Spanish | educación del paciente |
|---|---|
| Also written | client teaching, health teaching, patient education |
Related terms
health promotion
Helping people take actions that keep them well and improve their health.
self-care
The things people do for themselves to look after their own health and daily needs.
discharge
The release of a client from a hospital or care setting; also, fluid that flows out of a body part.
reinforce
To repeat and support teaching or care that has already been started, so the client remembers and follows it.