A nurse is assessing the ability to learn of a patient who has recently experienced a stroke. Which question/statement will best assess the patient's ability to learn?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A patient's reading level affects ability to learn. One way to assess a patient's reading level and level of understanding is to ask the patient to read instructions from an educational handout and then explain their meaning. Reading level is often difficult to assess because patients who are functionally illiterate are often able to conceal it by using excuses such as not having the time or not being able to see. Asking patients what they want to know identifies previous learning and learning needs and preferences; it does not assess ability to learn. Motivation (desire to learn) is related to readiness to learn, not ability to learn. Just asking a patient if he or she feels strong is not as effective as actually assessing the patient's strength.

A Nurse Is Assessing the Ability to Learn of a Patient