Plain-Language Vocabulary
Healthcare workers often translate technical terms into plain English so patients understand. This chapter focuses on recognizing common terminology and everyday equivalents, plus the tone of reassuring communication. It covers comprehension of vocabulary only, never clinical decisions.
Everyday Equivalents of Terms
Plain English helps patients: 'hypertension' becomes 'high blood pressure', and 'nauseous' becomes 'feeling sick to your stomach'. Being able to restate a term in simple words is a core communication skill.
Frequency and Schedule Words
Words that describe timing must be exact: 'twice daily' means two times each day, not every two days. Confirming these in plain language helps avoid confusion about schedules.
Tone and Common Workplace Phrases
Tone words matter: a 'reassuring' phrase calms a worried patient, while a 'dismissive' one ignores their feelings. Workplace expressions like 'follow up' (check back later) appear often in handovers and notes.