Certified Ophthalmic Assistant Practice Exam

What is the recommended technique for assisting a visually impaired patient?

1. Guide them by the wrist

2. Lead them by the shoulder

3. Place their hand on your arm at the elbow

4. Use verbal instructions only

The correct answer is: Place their hand on your arm at the elbow

The recommended technique for assisting a visually impaired patient involves placing their hand on your arm at the elbow. This method provides a stable point of contact, allowing the visually impaired individual to follow your movements intuitively. By guiding them this way, you give them a sense of security and enable them to navigate more easily, as they can feel your motions and adjust accordingly without feeling pulled or overly directed. This technique fosters a respectful approach, where the patient remains an active participant in their mobility. It also addresses the balance between guidance and independence, allowing them to feel their environment through you without being controlled by a more invasive approach. Allowing the patient to hold on to your arm at the elbow helps them understand where they are going and keeps them oriented. Other methods, such as guiding by the wrist or leading by the shoulder, can be less effective as they may either create a sense of being pulled or not provide enough security. Relying solely on verbal instructions, while helpful in some scenarios, may not be sufficient for navigating spaces, as it lacks the physical guidance that enhances the visually impaired person's ability to perceive their surroundings.