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NCLEX · Self-Care and Health Teaching

What is the purpose of the 'teach-back' method in client education?

Reviewed by Jordan Morley, Editorial Lead at 247SimpleTests. Written by the 247SimpleTests Editorial Team from the official source material cited on every question.

Correct answer

To confirm the client's understanding by having them explain or demonstrate the information in their own words, so the nurse can correct gaps

  1. A To confirm the client's understanding by having them explain or demonstrate the information in their own words, so the nurse can correct gaps
  2. B To replace all written materials
  3. C To test how smart the client is
  4. D To speed through teaching

Why this is the answer

The teach-back method is used to confirm a client's understanding by asking them to explain the information or demonstrate the skill in their own words, allowing the nurse to identify and correct any gaps or misunderstandings and re-teach as needed. It is not a test of intelligence, a replacement for written materials, or a way to rush teaching; rather, it verifies effective communication and supports safe self-care. Teach-back is a widely recommended, evidence-informed teaching strategy. Understanding its purpose — verifying comprehension — is a standard health-promotion and client-education concept. (This reflects general principles; verify against current NCLEX prep materials.)
Source: NCLEX-RN Health Promotion — Teach-Back Method

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About this topic: Self-Care and Health Teaching

Self-care and health teaching questions cover assessing readiness to learn, teaching methods, evaluating understanding (teach-back) and promoting self-management of chronic conditions. This is one of 10 RN: Health Promotion and Maintenance questions on self-care and health teaching, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

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