Basic English for Healthcare Professionals: Simple Phrases & Vocabulary for Daily Use
English for Healthcare Professionals: A Beginner's Guide to Confident Communication
English for Healthcare Workers is essential in today’s hospitals and clinics. This simple guide helps nurses, caregivers, and medical staff speak clearly and confidently at work. Learn basic English for hospital jobs, including daily phrases, patient conversations, and common medical vocabulary. Whether you are a healthcare assistant, front desk staff, or beginner nurse, this practical English resource is made for you. With easy examples and real-life dialogues, you can improve your spoken English for medical use step by step. Start using healthcare English today to better serve patients and succeed in your job.
Start your journey to effective communication in healthcare with our beginner-friendly guide. Learn essential English phrases, vocabulary, and real-life examples tailored for healthcare professionals.
Introduction
Welcome to your first step in mastering English for the healthcare environment! Whether you're a nurse, doctor, or any healthcare worker, communicating effectively in English is crucial for patient care and teamwork. This guide is designed to be simple, friendly, and interactive, helping you build confidence in your English skills.
Chapter 1: The Importance of English in Healthcare
Why English Matters
English is widely used in medical settings worldwide. Being proficient helps you:
- Understand patient needs accurately
- Collaborate effectively with colleagues
- Follow Instructions Accurately
- Ensure patient safety and comfort
Example
Imagine a patient says, "I'm feeling dizzy." Understanding this simple phrase allows you to take immediate action, ensuring the patient's well-being.Chapter 2: Basic English Phrases for Daily Use
Common Greetings for Healthcare Professionals
1. General Greetings for Patients
These are used when you first meet a patient or during regular check-ins.- Good morning! How are you feeling today?
- Hello! I’ll be looking after you today.
- Hi there! I’m your nurse for this shift.
- It’s nice to meet you.
- Good afternoon! Do you need anything right now?
- Hi! I'm here to help you.
- Hello! Just here to check your vitals.
- Good evening! Hope you’re comfortable.
- Hi, Mr. Sharma! How are you doing today?
- Good morning! Did you have your breakfast?
2. Greetings for Patients in Pain or Discomfort
These are gentle and calming greetings for patients who may be unwell or uncomfortable.- Hi there, I know you’re in pain — I’m here to help.
- Good morning. I’ll try to make you feel more comfortable.
- Hello, we’ll take things slowly, don’t worry.
- I understand you’re not feeling well — let’s see what we can do.
- Hi, I’ll be as gentle as possible.
- I’m here to help you feel better.
- Good afternoon. Let me check your medication.
- Hello, just breathe slowly — you’re doing fine.
- We’re here for you.
- You're not alone — we’ll take care of everything.
3. Greetings for Elderly Patients
These phrases show extra respect and care for older patients.- Good morning, sir/ma’am. How are you today?
- Hello! Let me help you get settled.
- Hi! Is there anything I can do for you?
- Good afternoon! Would you like a cup of tea or water?
- Hello! I’ll assist you to the chair.
- Nice to see you again today.
- Good morning! I’ll just check your blood pressure.
- Let’s take our time. There’s no rush.
- I’m happy to help you.
- Hello! Let’s get you nice and comfortable.
4. Greetings for Children or Pediatric Patients
Friendly and comforting greetings for kids in hospitals or clinics.- Hi there, little champ! How are you today?
- Good morning, sweetheart! Ready to be brave?
- Hey buddy! I brought you a sticker.
- Hello! Did you sleep well?
- Hi! I’m Nurse Tina, and I love superheroes.
- Morning! Let’s check how strong you are!
- Hi! Can I see your toy?
- Hello there! No needles today, just a check-up.
- How’s my brave patient doing?
- You’re doing such a great job!
5. Greetings for Colleagues, Doctors & Hospital Staff
These are polite and professional greetings for team members.- Good morning, Doctor!
- Hi! Ready for rounds?
- Hello! Let’s review the patient files.
- Good afternoon! Let me help with the forms.
- Morning! Do we have any critical cases today?
- Hello! I updated the patient chart.
- Hi! Can I assist you with anything?
- Good evening! How was your shift?
- Nice to work with you again!
- Let’s have a smooth shift today.
6. Greetings in Emergency or Urgent Situations
Short and calm greetings to reassure patients and keep communication clear.- Hello, you’re in the hospital. You’re safe now.
- Stay calm — we’re here to help you.
- Hi, I’m going to take care of you.
- We’re moving quickly to help you.
- You’re doing great — stay with me.
- Good job — just keep breathing.
- Hello, we’re starting treatment right now.
- You’re in good hands.
- I know it’s scary, but you’re not alone.
- We’re going to take care of everything.
Chapter 3: Essential Medical Vocabulary for Healthcare Professionals
(With simple meanings and real-life usage)
1. Common Medical Roles & People
Word | Meaning | Example Sentence |
---|---|---|
Patient | A person getting medical care | The patient is waiting in Room 3. |
Doctor | A person who treats patients | The doctor will see you now. |
Nurse | Assists doctors and cares for patients | The nurse gave me medicine. |
Caregiver | Someone who looks after a sick person | She works as a home caregiver. |
Surgeon | A doctor who does operations | The surgeon will perform the surgery at 2 PM. |
Specialist | A doctor focused on one area | He is a heart specialist. |
Receptionist | Handles calls and appointments | The receptionist will help you. |
Pharmacist | Prepares and gives medicines | Ask the pharmacist for dosage instructions. |
Paramedic | Emergency medical worker | The paramedic arrived quickly. |
Consultant | Senior doctor with expertise | You’ll meet the consultant today. |
Dentist | Doctor for teeth | The dentist pulled out my tooth. |
Physiotherapist | Helps people recover movement | She visits the physiotherapist weekly. |
Lab Technician | Works in the lab with tests | The lab technician is testing your blood. |
Radiologist | Specialist in X-rays and scans | The radiologist reviewed the CT scan. |
Midwife | Assists with childbirth | The midwife helped deliver the baby. |
Pediatrician | Child doctor | Take your baby to the pediatrician. |
Cardiologist | Heart doctor | The cardiologist suggested more tests. |
Oncologist | Cancer specialist | He is consulting with an oncologist. |
Dermatologist | Skin doctor | Visit the dermatologist for your rash. |
Psychiatrist | Mental health doctor | The psychiatrist will talk with you soon. |
Counselor | Gives emotional support | A counselor is available for patients. |
Attendant | A helper in hospitals | The attendant cleaned the ward. |
Volunteer | Helps without pay | Volunteers help at the front desk. |
Intern | A doctor in training | The intern will assist during rounds. |
Matron | Senior nurse | Speak to the matron for help. |
Reception staff | Handles visitors | Reception staff will guide you. |
Health Assistant | Supports medical staff | The health assistant recorded my weight. |
Administrator | Manages paperwork and records | Talk to the administrator for bills. |
Social Worker | Helps with non-medical support | The social worker arranged transport. |
Ward Boy | Male nurse/helper | The ward boy brought the meals. |
2. Hospital Rooms & Equipment
Word | Meaning | Example Sentence |
---|---|---|
Ward | A room for patients in hospital | She’s in the general ward. |
ICU | Intensive Care Unit (for serious cases) | He is recovering in the ICU. |
Operating Room/ Operation Theater | Where surgeries take place | The operation will be in OR 2/ OT 2. |
Reception | Entry desk for visitors/patients | Please register at the reception. |
Waiting Area | Where people wait | Your family is in the waiting area. |
Stretcher | A mobile bed to move patients | Move him to the stretcher carefully. |
Wheelchair | A chair with wheels for moving | The nurse brought a wheelchair. |
Monitor | Shows vital signs (like heart rate) | The monitor shows normal readings. |
Bedpan | A container for toilet use in bed | The patient asked for a bedpan. |
Ventilator | Machine to help breathing | The patient was placed on a ventilator. |
IV Drip | Delivers fluids into veins | She is on an IV drip. |
Thermometer | Measures body temperature | Check with a digital thermometer. |
Blood Pressure Cuff | Measures BP | Please use the BP cuff on his left arm. |
Syringe | Needle used for injection | Fill the syringe with 2ml. |
Glucometer | Checks blood sugar levels | Use the glucometer after meals. |
Oxygen Mask | Delivers oxygen to patient | Put on the oxygen mask. |
Bed Rail | Side protection for beds | Raise the bed rail after shifting the patient. |
Call Bell | Used by patients to call for help | Press the call bell if you need assistance. |
Curtain | Offers privacy in hospital beds | Draw the curtain during examination. |
Disinfectant | Kills germs on surfaces | Clean the stretcher with disinfectant. |
Name Tag | Worn by staff for identification | Check the name tag before speaking. |
Clipboard | Holds medical charts | The chart is attached to the clipboard. |
Uniform | Work clothes for hospital staff | Nurses must wear a clean uniform. |
Gloves | Protects hands during procedures | Wear gloves before handling samples. |
Mask | Covers mouth and nose | Always wear a mask in the ICU. |
PPE Kit | Full-body safety gear | Use a PPE kit for COVID patients. |
Sanitizer | Cleans hands | Apply sanitizer before entering. |
Label | Sticker to identify items | Label all lab samples. |
Storage Rack | Keeps hospital items organized | Store the gloves on the top rack. |
Curtain Track | Hangs the curtain in wards | The curtain track needs repair. |
3. Basic Medical Terms & Procedures
Word | Meaning | Example Sentence |
---|---|---|
Appointment | Scheduled visit with a doctor | I have an appointment at 3 PM. |
Prescription | Written instruction for medicine | The pharmacist filled the prescription. |
Diagnosis | Name of the health problem | The diagnosis is pneumonia. |
Treatment | Steps to cure illness | The treatment involves antibiotics. |
Check-up | Routine health examination | I came for a dental check-up. |
Vaccination | Shot to prevent disease | He got his flu vaccination. |
Surgery | Medical operation | She is recovering after surgery. |
Recovery | Process of healing | His recovery is going well. |
Discharge | Leaving hospital after treatment | The doctor approved her discharge. |
Emergency | Urgent health situation | Bring him to the emergency ward. |
Referral | Sending to a specialist | The GP gave a referral to a cardiologist. |
Admission | Entering hospital for care | The patient was admitted this morning. |
Consent | Permission for procedure | Sign the consent form before surgery. |
Record | Medical history document | Check the patient’s records. |
Test | Lab or physical examination | The doctor ordered blood tests. |
Procedure | A medical action | It is a standard procedure. |
Injection | Shot of medicine | He gave me a tetanus injection. |
Consultation | Time spent with doctor | Book a consultation with the specialist. |
Therapy | Treatment plan (like physical/mental) | He is undergoing speech therapy. |
Observation | Watching patient condition | Keep him under observation overnight. |
Follow-up | Next visit after treatment | Come for a follow-up next week. |
Sample | Blood or urine taken for test | Send the sample to the lab. |
Allergy | Reaction to food or medicine | She has a penicillin allergy. |
Infection | Illness from bacteria or virus | The wound is infected. |
Symptom | Sign of illness | Headache is a common symptom. |
Prevention | Stopping illness before it starts | Hand washing is good prevention. |
Medication | Any type of medicine | Take your medication after meals. |
Dosage | How much medicine to take | Follow the dosage instructions. |
Prognosis | Likely outcome of illness | The prognosis is good. |
Immunization | Making immune through vaccines | Childhood immunization is important. |
4. Symptoms and Conditions
Word | Meaning | Example Sentence |
---|---|---|
Fever | High body temperature | The patient has a fever of 102°F. |
Cough | Forceful release of air from lungs | She has had a dry cough for two days. |
Headache | Pain in the head | He complained of a severe headache. |
Nausea | Feeling like vomiting | She feels nausea after the medication. |
Dizziness | Feeling lightheaded or unsteady | Dizziness occurred when he stood up quickly. |
Fatigue | Extreme tiredness | Fatigue is common with this illness. |
Shortness of breath | Difficulty breathing | Shortness of breath is a serious symptom. |
Chest pain | Pain in the chest area | He reported chest pain during exercise. |
Cold | Common viral illness causing sneezing | She caught a cold last week. |
Diarrhea | Frequent loose stools | Diarrhea lasted for three days. |
Constipation | Difficulty passing stool | Constipation can cause stomach pain. |
Rash | Red or irritated skin spots | The rash appeared after eating seafood. |
Swelling | Body part enlarged due to injury or infection | There is swelling around the ankle. |
Allergy | Body’s reaction to allergens | She has a peanut allergy. |
Infection | Invasion by germs causing illness | The wound shows signs of infection. |
Seizure | Sudden uncontrolled electrical brain activity | The patient had a seizure last night. |
Vomiting | Forceful expulsion of stomach contents | He experienced vomiting after the meal. |
Pain | Unpleasant sensation | She complains of pain in her back. |
Blurred vision | Loss of sharpness in eyesight | Blurred vision can be a side effect. |
Weight loss | Reduction in body weight | Unexplained weight loss needs checking. |
Cold sweat | Sudden sweating due to shock or pain | He broke out in a cold sweat. |
Chills | Feeling cold with shivering | Chills often come with fever. |
Chest tightness | Feeling of pressure in the chest | Chest tightness may signal a heart problem. |
Abdominal pain | Pain in the stomach area | She reported abdominal pain after eating. |
Palpitations | Feeling of rapid heartbeat | Palpitations occurred after exercise. |
Shortness of breath | Difficulty breathing | Shortness of breath is a serious symptom. |
Swelling | Enlarged body part due to fluid | There is swelling on her hands. |
Joint pain | Pain in joints | He has joint pain from arthritis. |
Sore throat | Pain or irritation in the throat | She has a sore throat and cough. |
Fatigue | Extreme tiredness or lack of energy | Fatigue is a common symptom of flu. |
5. Parts of the Body
Word | Example Sentence |
---|---|
Head | He hit his head on the door. |
Eye | She has pain in her left eye. |
Ear | He has an ear infection. |
Nose | She has a runny nose. |
Mouth | Open your mouth, please. |
Neck | He can't move his neck properly. |
Shoulder | She injured her shoulder playing tennis. |
Arm | He broke his arm in the accident. |
Elbow | She has a pain in her elbow. |
Wrist | Her wrist is swollen after the fall. |
Hand | He injured his hand. |
Finger | She cut her finger. |
Chest | He has pain in his chest. |
Back | He hurt his back lifting boxes. |
Stomach | Her stomach feels upset. |
Waist | He wore a belt around his waist. |
Thigh | She injured her thigh in a fall. |
Knee | He twisted his knee playing football. |
Leg | She broke her leg. |
Ankle | He sprained his ankle. |
Foot | Her foot hurts after walking. |
Toe | He stubbed his toe. |
Skin | Her skin is dry. |
Bone | He broke a bone in his arm. |
Muscle | Strong muscles help in sports. |
Brain | The brain controls all body functions. |
Heart | The heart beats continuously. |
Lungs | Healthy lungs are vital for breathing. |
6. Useful Action Verbs in Healthcare
Verb | Meaning | Example Sentence |
---|---|---|
Administer | Give medicine or treatment | The nurse will administer your injection. |
Assess | Evaluate patient’s condition | The doctor assessed the injury. |
Examine | Check carefully | The doctor examined the patient’s throat. |
Diagnose | Identify illness or problem | They diagnosed him with flu. |
Treat | Provide medical care | The hospital treats many patients daily. |
Monitor | Watch patient’s condition | The nurse monitored the heart rate. |
Record | Write down information | Please record the patient’s blood pressure. |
Prescribe | Order medicine | The doctor prescribed antibiotics. |
Operate | Perform surgery | The surgeon operated successfully. |
Inject | Put medicine into body with needle | The nurse injected the vaccine. |
Clean | Make free of dirt or germs | Clean the wound carefully. |
Assist | Help | The nurse assisted during the operation. |
Measure | Find size or amount | Measure the patient’s temperature. |
Report | Tell about condition or event | Report any changes in symptoms. |
Refer | Send to specialist | The GP referred her to a cardiologist. |
Cleanse | Wash to remove dirt or germs | Cleansing the skin before injection is important. |
Comfort | Help patient feel better | The nurse comforted the anxious patient. |
Disinfect | Kill germs | Disinfect the equipment after use. |
Check | Look for condition | Check the patient’s pulse. |
Diagnose | Find out illness | The doctor diagnosed diabetes early. |
Educate | Teach patient about health | They educate patients about hygiene. |
Examine | Look carefully at patient | Examine the injury closely. |
Hydrate | Give fluids to patient | Hydrate the patient after surgery. |
Mobilize | Help move or walk | The physiotherapist mobilized the patient. |
Observe | Watch patient closely | Observe for any allergic reactions. |
Prepare | Get ready for procedure | Prepare the room for surgery. |
Record | Write notes | Record the vital signs regularly. |
Relieve | Reduce pain or discomfort | Medication helped relieve the pain. |
Transfer | Move patient from one place to another | Transfer the patient to the ICU. |
Wash | Clean with water and soap | Wash your hands before the procedure. |
Chapter 4: Effective Listening Skills
Tips for Active Listening
- Maintain eye contact
- Nod to show understanding
- Avoid interrupting
Ask Clarifying Questions
- Can you tell me more about the pain?
- Since when have you been feeling this way?
- Where exactly does it hurt?
- How severe is the pain on a scale of 1 to 10?
- Does the pain come and go or is it constant?
- What makes the pain better or worse?
- Have you noticed any other symptoms?
- Did anything trigger this problem?
- Have you taken any medication for it?
- Are you allergic to any medicines?
- Have you experienced this before?
- Does the pain affect your daily activities?
- Have you had any recent injuries or accidents?
- Is the pain sharp, dull, throbbing, or burning?
- Do you have any family history of similar issues?
- Are you currently under any treatment?
- How is your appetite and sleep?
- Have you traveled recently or been exposed to illness?
- Are you experiencing any fever or chills?
- Is there any swelling, redness, or heat in the affected area?
Reassuring Phrases :
- I understand.
- That must be uncomfortable.
- You're doing great.
- It’s okay to feel that way.
- We’re here to help you.
- You’re not alone in this.
- Take your time.
- We’ll take good care of you.
- It’s normal to feel anxious.
- Let me know if you need anything.
- You’re in safe hands.
- We’ll get through this together.
- I’m here to listen.
- You’re doing everything right.
- Your feelings are valid.
- Please don’t hesitate to ask questions.
- We’ll keep you informed.
- Your comfort is important to us.
- You’re making progress.
- I’m proud of your strength.
Chapter 5: Communicating with Colleagues
Teamwork Phrases
- Let’s discuss the patient’s condition.
- Can we review the latest test results together?
- Please update me on any changes in the patient’s status.
- Can you assist me with this procedure?
- I need your help with the medication preparation.
- Could you support me during this examination?
- I will update the patient’s chart right now.
- I’m documenting the latest observations.
- I’ll enter the new prescription in the records.
- Please check Room 3 for the patient’s vital signs.
- Could you monitor the patient in Room 5?
- The patient needs a blood test immediately.
- Make sure the blood sample is sent to the lab.
- We need to call the lab for urgent test results.
- Let’s notify the radiology department for the scan.
- Please prepare the equipment for the next procedure.
- Can you organize the patient’s transfer to ICU?
- Let’s coordinate with the pharmacy for the medication delivery.
- We should update the family about the patient’s progress.
- Can you help me with patient admissions at the front desk?
- Let’s schedule the next consultation with the specialist.
- Please inform the nurse on duty about the patient’s needs.
- Let’s double-check the medication dosage before administration.
- Can you assist in managing the emergency case?
- I’ll handle the paperwork while you prepare the patient.
- Let’s keep each other informed about any new symptoms.
- Please report any unusual changes immediately.
- Can you set up the monitoring devices for this patient?
- We need to collaborate closely during this surgery.
- Let’s debrief after the shift ends to discuss any issues.
- Can you help with disinfecting the equipment after use?
- Please ensure all safety protocols are followed during the procedure.
- Let’s make sure the patient feels comfortable and reassured.
- I’ll coordinate with the social worker for patient support.
- Can you assist with updating the discharge instructions?
- Let’s share the workload to avoid any delays.
- Please check the stock of medical supplies regularly.
- Can you cover for me during my break?
- Let’s communicate clearly to avoid any mistakes.
- Please confirm the next appointment date with the patient.
Chapter 6: Handling Emergencies
Emergency Phrases
- "Call the doctor immediately."
- "Prepare the emergency kit."
- "Monitor the patient's vital signs."
- "Start CPR now."
- "Bring the defibrillator."
- “Alert the emergency team.”
- “Check the patient’s airway and breathing.”
- “Administer oxygen if needed.”
- "Stay calm, help is on the way."
Chapter 7: Cultural Sensitivity in Communication
In a hospital, patients come from different backgrounds. Being respectful of their beliefs, customs, and language helps build trust and provide better care.
Understanding Cultural Differences
- Be respectful of cultural practices
- Avoid assumptions
- Use simple language
- Respect Personal Space
Polite Phrases
- “Is there anything you would like us to know about your customs or preferences?”
- “Would you prefer a male or female doctor?”
- “Please let us know if you need a translator.”
- “We respect your beliefs and will do our best to support them.”
- “You are free to ask questions at any time.”
- “Do you feel comfortable with this examination?”
- “If there’s anything that makes you uncomfortable, please tell us.”
- “We’ll explain every step before we proceed.”
- “Take your time to decide — there’s no pressure.”
- “Is it okay if we proceed this way?”
Chapter 8: Telephone Etiquette
Hospital phone calls often involve important information. Speaking clearly and respectfully helps patients feel supported and improves communication within the team.
Tips for Telephone Etiquette
- Speak Clearly & Slowly: Use a calm and polite tone.
- Be Professional: Avoid casual phrases or slang.
- Listen Actively: Don’t interrupt. Let the caller finish.
- Keep It Confidential: Never share patient details with unauthorized persons.
- Confirm Information: Repeat names, times, or numbers for accuracy.
- Be Patient: Especially with elderly or nervous callers.
Useful Telephone Phrases
When Answering the Call:
- “Good morning. ABC Hospital, how may I help you?”
- “This is the reception desk. How can I assist you?”
- “Emergency ward, [Your Name] speaking.”
When Transferring the Call:
- “Please hold while I transfer your call.”
- “Let me connect you to the concerned department.”
- “I will check if the doctor is available. Please stay on the line.”
When Taking a Message:
- “May I take your name and number?”
- “Can I take a message for Dr. [Name]?”
- “I will pass on your message as soon as possible.”
When Making a Call:
- “Hello, this is [Your Name] from ABC Hospital.”
- “I’m calling to confirm your appointment for tomorrow.”
- “We are calling to share your test results.”
- "Your appointment is confirmed for 10 AM on Tuesday."
For Clarity and Politeness:
- "Can you spell your name for me, please?"
- “Could you repeat that, please?”
- “I’m sorry, could you speak a little louder?”
- “Thank you for calling. Have a nice day.”
Sample Dialogue
You: "Good morning, City Hospital. How may I help you?"Caller: "I need to schedule an appointment."
You: "Certainly. May I have your name and preferred date?"
Chapter 9: Writing Skills for Healthcare
Writing Patient Notes
- Be concise and clear
- Use standard abbreviations
- Record time and date
Phrases for Documentation
- "Patient reports mild chest pain."
- "Administered 500mg paracetamol at 9 AM."
- "No signs of infection."
- "Vital signs stable."
Chapter 10: Continuing Your English Learning Journey
Practice Regularly
- Engage in conversations
- Watch medical English videos
- Use language learning apps
- Seek Feedback
- Ask colleagues for input
- Join language workshops
- Stay Motivated
- Keep a progress journal
- Set weekly learning goals
- Celebrate small victories
Conclusion
Improving your English skills enhances your ability to provide quality healthcare. By mastering basic phrases, vocabulary, and communication techniques, you build stronger relationships with patients and colleagues. Keep practicing, stay curious, and continue learning. Your dedication makes a significant difference in patient care.
Disclaimer:
FAQs – Basic English for Healthcare Professionals
1. Why is English important for healthcare professionals?
English is the most widely used language in healthcare globally. It helps professionals communicate effectively with patients, doctors, and international staff. It is also useful for reading prescriptions, reports, and instructions.
2. Can I work in a hospital if my English isn’t perfect?
Yes, you can. Clear and polite communication is more important. Focus on using simple words, short sentences, and a respectful tone.
3. What are some common English phrases used with patients?
Some common phrases include: “How are you feeling?”, “Take your medicine”, “You will be fine”, “Let me help you.”
4. How can I improve my English for hospital use?
You can improve by learning simple medical words, practicing daily conversations, using mobile apps, listening to audio lessons, and watching healthcare videos with subtitles.
5. Are there specific English words I should learn first?
Yes. Start with patient-related words like "fever", "pain", "medicine", "treatment", "test", and "report". Learn names of common equipment like "thermometer", "stretcher", "IV drip", and "mask".
6. How can I understand patients who speak fast?
Politely ask them to repeat or speak slowly. Use phrases like, “Can you please say that again?” or “Please speak slowly.”
7. Can I use translation apps while talking to patients?
Yes, but only if allowed by your hospital. Apps are useful, but always try to speak directly for better trust and connection.
8. What if I don't know how to say something in English?
Stay calm. Use basic words, gestures, or ask a colleague for help. You can also say, “I’m learning. Can I ask someone to assist?”
9. Are there courses for healthcare English?
Yes. Many free and paid courses are available online. Look for terms like “Medical English” or “English for Nurses” on YouTube or websites like Coursera, edX, or BBC Learning English.
10. How can I build confidence while speaking English?
Practice daily with coworkers or family. Start small. Use simple sentences. Repeat common hospital conversations. Confidence grows with use.