What it means
A word used for any function that is reduced: a visual impairment, hearing impairment, cognitive impairment (trouble with memory and thinking) or impaired mobility. Nurses use it when planning care, because an impairment changes how a client is safest moving, eating, communicating and learning. It is also used for a nurse who is unsafe because of alcohol or drugs ("an impaired colleague").
For the nurse
Find out which impairments a client has and plan around them: glasses and hearing aids in place, a clear path, the call light within reach and teaching adapted to the client. Report a coworker who seems impaired to the charge nurse or supervisor.
At a glance
| Spanish | deterioro, discapacidad |
|---|---|
| Also written | impairments, impaired |
Related terms
activities of daily living
The basic self-care tasks of everyday life, such as bathing, dressing, eating, toileting and moving about.
Alzheimer disease
A brain disease that slowly destroys memory, thinking and the ability to do everyday tasks.
delirium
A sudden state of confusion and poor attention that comes and goes over hours or days.