Written Communication Flashcards
what are the problems with written communication ?
no personal interaction,
no single, fixed meaning,
communication is an interactive and dynamic process
what does the reader do when reading a piece of writing ?
simultaneously read to end and make up a coherent meaning,
respond cognitively, behaviourally, emotionally
how do dentists use written communication ?
prescriptions, documentation, referrals, leaflets, reports, essays
what are the features of a good prescription ?
clear and unambiguous, approved name, no abbreviations, care with IV’s, care with units, legal, correct dosing
what information should paediatric referral letters for GA contain ?
referrers full details, GMP's full details, medical history, dental history, reason for referral, justification for GA where GA requested, radiographs provided/reasons why not, treatment plan
what information should urgent referral letters contain ?
patient details, urgency of referral, problem, appropriate medical and social history, patient's understanding of referral
what are the advantages of educational resources ?
improve patient's understanding of condition/treatment options, increase involvement in care, encourage adherence, reduce anxiety and stress, increase satisfaction with care
what are the pros and cons of Patient Information Leaflets ?
pros: - better communication - can be referred to after event cons: - public ignores printed literature on health - leaflets are difficult to understand
what are the disadvantages of PIL’s ?
poor readability, inaccurate, out of date, patients may not retain facts, poor adherence, regret treatment choices
what factors should be considered when writing a PIL ?
font, language, relevance to reader, appropriate age group, accurate and coherent
what is the purpose of PIL’s ?
improve awareness,
prepare for procedures,
facilitate informed decisions,
encourages behaviour change
how can information be provided for people who don’t read much ?
interests of reader are the priority, clear and unambiguous, short words, short sentences, legible typesize, avoid bold and italics, avoid the passive voice, be personal, avoid unnecessary capitals
Information given to patients should…
Enable understating -
Clear, specific, figures, diagrams enable reasoning -
Rating scales for different treatment, tick boxes to express feelings, free text space for questions or concerns
Encourage patient involvement -
Questions, choice between treatments
Enhance patients skills
