Weiss et al evaluated literacy by asking the patient to read a nutrition label and to answer 6 questions. This Newest Vital Sign (NVS) can be performed in different languages and can help identify patients who may require extra care in discussing health matters. The authors are from the University of Arizona, Arizona State University and the University of North Carolina.
The person is asked 6 questions about information contained on a food label, with the example using one from a container of ice cream.
The questions are intended to determine if the person understands what he or she is reading.
total score =
= SUM(points for all 6 responses)
Interpretation:
• minimum score: 0
• maximum score: 6
• The higher the score the more likely the patient will be literate if tested with the Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults (TOFHLA).
Total Score
Performance on TOFHLA
5 or 6
adequate literacy
4
borderline literacy
2 or 3
possible limited literacy
0 or 1
50% chance of having marginal or inadequate literacy
Performance:
• The assessment can be done in 3 minutes or less.
