Plan for timely delivery of relevant educational information about schizophrenia
• The overall plan for patient and family education should be comprehensive and divided into manageable segments of
information that are scheduled periodically to avoid overwhelming the patient and family
• High quality teaching tools (e.g., clear, concise print materials written at a 5th grade reading level) should be utilized to
support teaching and learning. Gather appropriate teaching tools prior to initiating the education session, including
–a teaching guideline or documentation form outlining key content areas
–corresponding print materials
–equipment (e.g., models, drawings) or supplies
• The assessment of the patient’s learning characteristics and clinical and developmental needs should guide the selection of
appropriate teaching tools
• Whenever possible, education about schizophrenia should be scheduled when family members or significant others (e.g.,
the primary caregivers and support persons) are available