Reading Skills for Healthcare Workers

Alex works as a home health care nurse assistant. He works in clients’ private homes. He helps his clients with their daily needs such as bathing, eating, and preparing meals.

 

One of Alex’s clients is Evelyn. Alex has known Evelyn for about a year. He visits her every day. Recently, Alex noticed that Evelyn’s needs are changing. She isn’t always able to communicate with him about how she feels or about what she wants, and she sometimes won't cooperate with Alex when he cares for her. He talked to the registered nurse (RN) in charge about his concerns yesterday and has been watching Evelyn closely today.

 

Evelyn’s daughter, Sheila, comes to visit Evelyn three times a week. Alex often sees Sheila when she comes to visit. Today she asks Alex how her mom has been for the last few days. She tells Alex that she thinks her mom seems to be more confused than usual. Alex isn’t sure how Sheila will react when he tells Sheila his concerns, but he knows he must answer her honestly about what he has observed. He tells Sheila that Evelyn has seemed more confused and unaware of her surroundings recently and that he reported these changes to the RN in charge. He recommends that Sheila talk about her mom to the RN, and the RN can give her good advice on what to do next.   

Sheila listens carefully to Alex. She wants her mother to get the best care possible. She thanks Alex for telling her about Evelyn’s behavior and promises to call the RN after her visit. Alex is glad that he talked to Sheila. He cares about Evelyn, and he wants her to receive the care she needs.