Dialogues with a nurse during a hospital admission
Discussing Medical History
Patient: Good morning, I’m here for my admission.
Nurse: Good morning! Let’s start with your medical history. Do you have any chronic conditions we should know about?
Patient: Yes, I have type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.
Nurse: Okay, are you currently taking any medication for these conditions?
Patient: Yes, I’m on Metformin and Lisinopril.
Nurse: Great, we’ll make a note of that. Any allergies to medications?
Patient: No, none that I’m aware of.

Understanding Care Procedures
Patient: Can you explain what the procedure will involve?
Nurse: Certainly! You’re scheduled for a gallbladder removal. It’s a laparoscopic surgery, so it’s minimally invasive.
Patient: Will I be under general anesthesia?
Nurse: Yes, you will be. After the surgery, you’ll be in recovery where we’ll monitor you until you’re awake.
Patient: How long will the recovery take?
Nurse: Typically, patients are observed for a few hours before being moved to a regular room.

Learning About Patient Rights and Responsibilities
Patient: I’m a little nervous about my stay. What are my rights as a patient?
Nurse: You have the right to be informed about your care, to privacy, and to make decisions about your treatment.
Patient: And what are my responsibilities?
Nurse: We ask that you provide accurate health information, follow your recommended treatment plan, and respect hospital policies and staff.
Patient: Thank you, that makes me feel more at ease.

Inquiring About Post-Operative Care
Patient: What should I expect after the surgery?
Nurse: Post-operatively, we’ll manage any pain or discomfort you have. We’ll also gradually have you start moving and walking.
Patient: Will there be special instructions for when I go home?
Nurse: Absolutely. You’ll receive guidelines for diet, wound care, and any necessary follow-up appointments.

Inquiring About Test Procedures
Patient: Could you tell me more about the MRI test I’m scheduled for?
Nurse: Of course. An MRI is a non-invasive imaging test. You’ll need to lie still in the MRI machine for about 30 minutes.
Patient: Is there anything special I need to do to prepare?
Nurse: Just remove any metal objects or jewelry. If you feel claustrophobic, let us know so we can make you more comfortable.

Addressing Pain Management
Patient: I’m experiencing quite a bit of pain in my leg.
Nurse: I’m sorry to hear that. On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate your pain?
Patient: It’s around a 7.
Nurse: I’ll inform your doctor and see if we can adjust your pain medication to make you more comfortable.

Discussing Sleep Arrangements
Patient: I’ve been having trouble sleeping in the hospital.
Nurse: I understand, it can be difficult. Are you experiencing discomfort or noise issues?
Patient: It’s a bit noisy, and the bed isn’t very comfortable.
Nurse: Let me see if we can find you a quieter room and maybe an extra pillow for better comfort.

Understanding Post-Operation Mobility
Patient: I’m worried about walking after my knee surgery.
Nurse: It’s normal to be concerned. We’ll start with some gentle physiotherapy as soon as you’re able. It’s important to get moving to aid your recovery.
Patient: Will it be painful?
Nurse: There might be some discomfort, but we’ll manage your pain and ensure you’re supported throughout the process.

Useful Phrases
๐ค “I’m feeling unwell/sick.” – Expressing general discomfort or illness.
๐ “Can you explain what this medication is for?” – Inquiring about prescribed medications.
๐ก๏ธ “Could you check my temperature, please?” – Requesting a temperature check.
๐ “I’m in pain here.” – Indicating a specific area of pain.
๐ฅ “I have dietary restrictions/allergies.” – Informing about dietary needs or allergies.
๐ค “I’m having trouble sleeping.” – Discussing sleep-related issues.
๐จ “I’m feeling anxious/nervous about this procedure.” – Expressing anxiety or nervousness.
๐ “Can you explain the test results to me?” – Asking for clarification on test results.
๐ถ “When can I start walking/moving around?” – Inquiring about mobility post-treatment or surgery.
๐ฅ “What do I need to know about my discharge plan?” – Asking about discharge instructions and aftercare.
๐ “Can I contact you or the team if I have questions after I leave?” – Requesting information on post-discharge communication.
๐ “Will this procedure hurt?” – Asking about discomfort or pain associated with a procedure.
๐
“When is my next appointment or procedure?” – Confirming schedule for follow-up appointments or treatments.
๐ “Can you help me get more comfortable in bed?” – Requesting assistance for physical comfort.
๐ “Who should I talk to about my overall treatment plan?” – Seeking information on whom to discuss comprehensive care plans.
Vocabulary
- ๐ค Pain – To describe any physical discomfort or pain.
- ๐ Medication – Referring to any drugs or pills prescribed.
- ๐ก๏ธ Temperature – When talking about body temperature or fever.
- ๐ฝ Bathroom – If needing assistance to go to the restroom.
- ๐ฅค Hydration – Discussing needs for water or fluids.
- ๐ด Sleep – Mentioning issues or needs related to sleep.
- ๐ฒ Food – Talking about meals, diet, or appetite.
- ๐ Injection – Referring to any shots or IVs.
- ๐ Symptoms – Describing any signs of illness or changes in health.
- ๐ Comfort – Expressing a need for comfort or relief.
- ๐ Rest – Discussing the need for rest or relaxation.
- ๐ฌ Worry – Expressing concerns or fears about health or procedures.
- ๐ Schedule – Asking about the timing of treatments or tests.
- ๐ Contact – Requesting contact information for follow-up or questions.
- ๐ฅ Discharge – Inquiring about the process of leaving the hospital.
- ๐ฉบ Examination – Referring to a physical check-up or assessment.
- ๐งด Lotion/Cream – Requesting skin care products for dryness or irritation.
- ๐ Sweating – Mentioning excessive sweating, possibly indicating fever or discomfort.
- ๐ฅฑ Fatigue – Expressing tiredness or lack of energy.
- ๐คข Nausea – Discussing feelings of sickness or the urge to vomit.
- ๐คง Allergies – Talking about allergic reactions or sensitivities.
- ๐ฉน Bandage – Requesting a bandage for a wound or injury.
- ๐ค Fever – Specifically mentioning having a fever.
- ๐ฉธ Bleeding – Discussing any kind of bleeding issue.
- ๐ฆต Mobility – Talking about the ability to walk or move.
- ๐ Hearing – Discussing issues related to hearing.
- ๐๏ธ Vision – Talking about sight or visual issues.
- ๐ง Headache/Migraine – Mentioning a headache or migraine.
- ๐ฌ๏ธ Breathing – Discussing respiratory issues or shortness of breath.
- ๐ฉบ Vitals – Referring to vital signs like heart rate and blood pressure.