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copyright 2008 Cheryl K. Hosken, BSN, MS Psych.
When meeting a handicapped person for the first time, you may be overwhelmed with all of the problems he/she presents. There are times when the situation seems almost impossible and changes will never be made. In some cases, this is true and for that reason, you must assess the situation and find out what help may be given. Perhaps it is visiting on a regular schedule for sharing the Word of God and praying. Perhaps there is an agency where you can get information to help the family care for their handicapped person. Maybe the family simply needs a ride to the hospital or polyclinic so the patient can be examined. In any case, an assessment with the handicapped person and his family is essential so that you fully know the situation and what the family needs.
Meditate Word By Word On These Verses:
Lev. 19:14-18.
Every person is known to God and for that reason he is special. His story is unique although it may resemble others' stories, no two persons have exactly the same history. Therefore, you will listen carefully, discuss the potential actions with the handicapped person, make a plan, and then implement the plan. With a plan, you are able to understand whether your work was helpful.
The word assessment means a gathering of information. This gathering does not mean a formal interview. Many of you will be in the handicapped person's home or a treatment center. Usually, an assessment is an informal time of about an hour where all aspects of the person's life are discussed. At the time of the interview, you must remember the aspects of the assessment form and use only a small paper for taking notes. When the interview is over, write the information on the assessment form. Please remember as well that the information you collect is private and is not to be shared with others unless the disabled person gives his/her permission. The information you collect must be kept in a safe place where it will not be seen by others.
Your practical assignment for this lesson is to fill out the assessment form with another person, as if with a patient. Here is a list of topics to use in the assessment conversation: CLICK HERE to fill out the form!