ASSESSING LITERACY

We notice it because we have written menus. I usually am just pretty frank and ask the patient, because it alters how we do most everything. I've had several patients just tell me "I don't read."

We notice it because we have written menus. I usually am just pretty frank and ask the patient, because it alters how we do most everything. I've had several patients just tell me "I don't read."

I don't think she's talking about the patient.

If you have doubts about the CNA's ability to read/understand written instruction, I would give her assignment verbally and check back with her frequently. If it is just her documentation that you are concerned about I would refer that issue to the DNS, staff development person with specific examples of the documentation that has raised your concern.

oops. I thought it was cna's assessing literacy..oops.

ask HR if there is a literacy requirement in the job description. Then ask how they determine it. Then ask can they test someone (probably Educator would get involved and there are many tools out there for testing). This way it is out of your hands. Involve risk mgt if needed.

You are very right to be concerned. At the very least, you should be very careful delegating anything to this cna if you are unsure about her literacy. If this has an impact on your productivity it should be discussed with your immediate supervisor. The issue should be handled in a way that is respectful to the cna and honors her worth as a care provider.

As an educator, I have encountered many people who have succesfully 'passed' for literate in the workplace until they are faced with a situation that exposes their inability to read. These people are usually very bright and pleasant to work with - relying on memory and their workplace relationships to get them through the day. For instance, they frequently 'trade' tasks - offering to do physical labor in turn for someone else's assistance with reading. The first defense - when asked to read- is usually that they forgot their glasses.

Illiteracy is a complex issue. There are many root causes and different degrees of inability. For instance, some people are completely capable with numbers, but unable to interepret letters. Others have severe dyslexia that prevents them from recognizing letters at all. Diagnosis and interventions are best left up to professionals in this area. It is waaaay outside the expertise or scope of practice for hospital/clinical educators. In my city, we can contact our local Literacy Council to obtain free assistance for adults with literacy problems.