Question

The nurse is caring for a patient with blindness. When reviewing the care plan, the nurse notes which of the following goals need to be modified?

A. The patient will report any drainage from the wound with a foul odor to the primary care provider after discharge.
B. The patient will agree to report pain promptly while hospitalized.
C. The patient will obtain no injuries while in the hospital.
D. The patient will report any wound drainage with a purulent appearance to the primary care provider after discharge.

Answer 1

Goal A and Goal D need to be modified in the care plan for a patient with blindness since they involve visual assessment of wound conditions, which are not feasible for a blind patient. Goals B and C do not require vision and may not need modification.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse must modify care plans for a patient with blindness to suit their specific needs and circumstances. In this case, care plan goals related to the patient's ability to report certain conditions post-discharge must be adjusted. Goal A and Goal D both refer to the patient reporting observations that rely on sight, such as drainage from the wound with a foul odor or purulent appearance. These visual assessments are not possible for someone who is blind, thus these goals are not suitable. It would be more appropriate to revise these goals to emphasize the use of other senses or to request assistance from someone who can visually inspect the wound. Goals that involve the patient reporting pain or ensuring no injuries in the hospital (B and C) do not rely on visual abilities and therefore may not need modification. It is crucial for health professionals to recognize the individualized needs of patients and adapt care plans accordingly to ensure effective post-discharge care and monitoring, particularly for patients with disabilities such as blindness.