Guidelines for improving communication

The following are suggested considerations when communicating with CALD patients:

• Be aware of differences in communication patterns (formal versus informal; direct versus indirect; non-verbal and gestures).
• Use simple language, speaking clearly and avoiding jargon is important.
• Use open ended questions to avoid a “Yes” or a “No” answer when working with CALD patients is necessary to avoid misunderstanding.
• Assess the patient’s ability to comprehend or speak English especially when requiring consent or decisions to be made. This can be done by:
  • Asking open ended questions.
  • Asking the patient to repeat a statement in his or her own words.
• Access a professionally trained interpreter to assist with communication with limited or non-English speaking patients, instead of using a family member.
• Know how to work with interpreters effectively.
• Provide information to non-English speaking patients and their families in their own language. However, it is important not to assume all CALD patients can read written information in English or their own language. Assessing literacy is important by asking and not assuming.