North Carolina CNA Written Practice Exam

What is the best method to communicate food layout to a blind patient?

1. Simple verbal description

2. Pointing on the plate

3. Using the clock format

4. Touching the patient's hand

The correct answer is: Using the clock format

Using the clock format is the best method to communicate food layout to a blind patient because it provides a clear, structured, and familiar reference point. By associating food items with the positions on a clock face, a caregiver can help the patient understand the arrangement of their meal. For example, saying “the mashed potatoes are at 6 o'clock, the vegetables are at 3 o'clock, and the chicken is at 12 o'clock” gives the patient a precise way to navigate their plate independently. This method is effective because it makes use of a visual analogy that many individuals are aware of, which aids in mental mapping of the food layout. It enhances the patient's ability to manage their meal without needing additional assistance, promoting independence and confidence during the dining experience. In contrast, simple verbal descriptions may lack the spatial organization that the clock method provides, and while pointing on the plate could help, it assumes the patient can see where you are indicating, which may not be the case. Touching the patient's hand could create confusion or discomfort, as it does not offer a systematic way to identify food placement. The clock format combines clarity with a sense of agency, making it the most effective choice for communicating food layout to a blind patient.