3.1. Understanding Instructions (Reading)
Learning Objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
- Understand the purpose and features of procedural texts in healthcare settings.
- Read and summarize procedural texts, focusing on sequencing and key vocabulary.
- Rearrange and explain procedural steps to improve comprehension and accuracy.
- Apply step-by-step instructions through hands-on practice with healthcare tasks.
- Reflect on the importance of following step-by-step instructions in healthcare.
Part 1: Warm-Up
- What do you think “step-by-step instructions” are?
- Where might you encounter step-by-step instructions in a healthcare setting?
- Why do you think following step-by-step instructions accurately is critical in healthcare?
Part 2: Step-by-step Instruction
Step-by-step Instruction: Click each plus sign (+) to learn more about step-by-step instructions.
Part 3: Reading Practice – Step-by-step Instruction
Read the medication administration guideline below with your class.
Example Guideline:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Check the medication label to ensure it matches the patient’s prescription.
- Measure the correct dosage using a syringe or measuring cup.
- Administer the medication as instructed (e.g., orally, injection).
- Record the time and dosage given in the patient’s chart.
Work in pairs to summarize the key steps in your own words. Focus on the sequence of actions.
Example Summary: First, wash your hands. Next, __________________. Then, _____________________
Write your summary in your notebook:
Share your summary with the class. Discuss why each step is important.
Reflection Question: Why is it important to follow the exact steps when administering medication?
Your Answer: ___________________________________________
Group Activity – Sequencing Infection Control Steps
Your group will receive a set of infection control steps in a mixed-up order. Work together to rearrange them into the correct sequence.
Mixed-Up Steps Example:
- Wear gloves and other protective gear.
- Wash hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds.
- Disinfect surfaces with an approved cleaning solution.
- Dispose of gloves and wash hands again.
Write the correct sequence below:
- Step 1: ________________________________________________
- Step 2: ________________________________________________
- Step 3: ________________________________________________
- Step 4: ________________________________________________
Practice explaining each step to the rest of the class.
Reflection Question: Why is the order of these steps crucial for effective infection control?
Your Answer: _________________________________
Part 4: Hands-On Activity – Setting Up Medical Equipment
Read the following procedural text on setting up a blood pressure monitor:
Example Setup Instructions:
- Place the blood pressure cuff around the patient’s upper arm, ensuring it fits snugly but not too tight.
- Connect the cuff tubing to the monitor.
- Turn on the monitor and select the appropriate settings.
- Press the start button and wait for the reading to display.
- Record the blood pressure reading in the patient’s chart.
In pairs, role-play the setup process using the instructions above.
- One student will follow the steps to set up the equipment.
- The other student will act as the observer, ensuring the steps are followed correctly.
Write down any challenges you faced and how you resolved them:
Challenges Faced: _______________________________________
How We Resolved Them: ___________________________________
Reflection Question: What did you learn from practicing the setup process?
Your Answer: ___________________________________________
Part 5: Wrap-Up: Reflection and Discussion
Reflection Questions:
- What challenges did you face while following step-by-step instructions?
Your Answer: ___________________________________________ - Why is it important to follow the correct sequence in healthcare tasks?
Your Answer: ___________________________________________ - How will you apply the skills you learned today in your future role as a healthcare professional?
Your Answer: ___________________________________________