(b) Show evidence in the evaluation statement that learning has
occurred, or how the problem was resolved if the patient or support person did not learn
the material taught.
7-8.
FACTORS WHICH AFFECT LEARNING
a. Factors, which affect patient learning, need to be assessed in order for
appropriate teaching strategies to be used.
b. Include the following factors in your assessment.
(1) Developmental considerations. Knowledge of intellectual, psychosocial,
and physiologic age is necessary before you select age-appropriate teaching methods.
Delayed development in any of these areas should be considered.
(a) Children have limited past experiences. Adults learn more quickly
than children because they are able to build upon previous knowledge.
(b) Use chronological age to assess whether the developmental stage is
as would be expected.
(2) Educational level. You will effectively promote learning if you are aware of
the learner's intellectual ability and avoid "talking down" to him or her or using an
inappropriate teaching strategy.
(3) Past learning experiences. Attitudes toward future learning are influenced
by learning experiences in the past. Encourage the learner to express how he views
education so that you can deal with his feelings before teaching is attempted.
(4) Physical condition. The patient will not be ready to learn until he is
comfortable enough to pay attention to the information you present.
(5) Sensory abilities. Note any deficit in the learner's sight, hearing, and touch
so that teaching is planned appropriately.
(6) Emotional health. The emotional state of the learner should be conducive
to learning before teaching is done.
(a) A patient, who is moderately anxious about his/her condition, will
probably be attentive to presentation of information that will help him manage the
condition.
(b) If the patient is in a state of crisis with a high level of anxiety, delay
teaching until the crisis is over.
MD0906
7-13