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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:

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
  2. Check the medication label to ensure it matches the patient’s prescription.
  3. Measure the correct dosage using a syringe or measuring cup.
  4. Administer the medication as instructed (e.g., orally, injection).
  5. 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: ___________________________________________

License

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Basic Skills for Clinical Medical Assistant Copyright © 2025 by Montgomery College is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.