Introduction
The World Health Organization defines health literacy as the cognitive and social skills necessary to motivate and empower individuals to access, comprehend, and apply information to maintain and improve their own health. As an ER nurse at a level 2 trauma center, I have often encountered patients with low health literacy, which has compounded the challenges of delivering effective health care.
Health Literacy Challenge in Clinical Practice
An incident that vividly stands out involves a patient who was diagnosed with diabetes. His condition remained poorly managed despite multiple appointments and consultations (Abel & McQueen, 2020). It was only after a severe hypoglycemic episode that the root of the issue was identified: the patient had a low level of health literacy and did not fully understand his disease, the importance of regular blood glucose monitoring, and the dietary changes required. It was a stark reminder of the pivotal role health literacy plays in the promotion and management of health.
Evidence-Based Strategies to Promote Health Literacy
Addressing health literacy is a critical aspect of patient care. Research has identified several evidence-based strategies to promote health literacy. The first is the use of plain language. Medical jargon can be intimidating and confusing for many patients. By using simple, everyday language, health information accessible and understandable to all patients can be ensured. This information includes explaining medical conditions, treatments, and instructions clearly and concisely and checking for understanding by asking patients to explain the information in their own words (Abel & McQueen, 2020).
The second strategy involves the use of visual aids. Visuals can be an effective tool for communicating complex health information. Diagrams, charts, and other visual aids can help patients understand their health conditions and the necessary steps for management. For instance, using a diagram to explain the impact of high blood sugar levels on the body can help a diabetic patient understand the importance of proper diet and regular monitoring.
Conclusion
In conclusion, health literacy is a vital component of health promotion. As healthcare providers, we must make sure our patients comprehend their medical issues and the processes for managing them. We can use more straightforward language and visuals to improve health literacy and patient results. Addressing health literacy is not just about providing information; it’s about ensuring it can be understood and used for health promotion.
Reference
Abel, T., & McQueen, D. (2020). Critical health literacy and the COVID-19 crisis. Health Promotion International, 35(6), 1612-1613.