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.

1. Good morning! How are you feeling today?
2. Hello! I’ll be looking after you today.
3. Hi there! I’m your nurse for this shift.
4. It’s nice to meet you.
5. Good afternoon! Do you need anything right now?
6. Hi! I'm here to help you.
7. Hello! Just here to check your vitals.
8. Good evening! Hope you’re comfortable.
9. Hi, Mr. Sharma! How are you doing today?
10. 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.

1. Hi there, I know you’re in pain — I’m here to help.
2. Good morning. I’ll try to make you feel more comfortable.
3. Hello, we’ll take things slowly, don’t worry.
4. I understand you’re not feeling well — let’s see what we can do.
5. Hi, I’ll be as gentle as possible.
6. I’m here to help you feel better.
7. Good afternoon. Let me check your medication.
8. Hello, just breathe slowly — you’re doing fine.
9. We’re here for you.
10. 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.

1. Good morning, sir/ma’am. How are you today?
2. Hello! Let me help you get settled.
3. Hi! Is there anything I can do for you?
4. Good afternoon! Would you like a cup of tea or water?
5. Hello! I’ll assist you to the chair.
6. Nice to see you again today.
7. Good morning! I’ll just check your blood pressure.
8. Let’s take our time. There’s no rush.
9. I’m happy to help you.
10. 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.

1. Hi there, little champ! How are you today?
2. Good morning, sweetheart! Ready to be brave?
3. Hey buddy! I brought you a sticker.
4. Hello! Did you sleep well?
5. Hi! I’m Nurse Tina, and I love superheroes.
6. Morning! Let’s check how strong you are!
7. Hi! Can I see your toy?
8. Hello there! No needles today, just a check-up.
9. How’s my brave patient doing?
10. You’re doing such a great job!

5. Greetings for Colleagues, Doctors & Hospital Staff

These are polite and professional greetings for team members.

1. Good morning, Doctor!
2. Hi! Ready for rounds?
3. Hello! Let’s review the patient files.
4. Good afternoon! Let me help with the forms.
5. Morning! Do we have any critical cases today?
6. Hello! I updated the patient chart.
7. Hi! Can I assist you with anything?
8. Good evening! How was your shift?
9. Nice to work with you again!
10. 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.

1. Hello, you’re in the hospital. You’re safe now.
2. Stay calm — we’re here to help you.
3. Hi, I’m going to take care of you.
4. We’re moving quickly to help you.
5. You’re doing great — stay with me.
6. Good job — just keep breathing.
7. Hello, we’re starting treatment right now.
8. You’re in good hands.
9. I know it’s scary, but you’re not alone.
10. 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

1. Can you tell me more about the pain?
2. Since when have you been feeling this way?
3. Where exactly does it hurt?
4. How severe is the pain on a scale of 1 to 10?
5. Does the pain come and go or is it constant?
6. What makes the pain better or worse?
7. Have you noticed any other symptoms?
8. Did anything trigger this problem?
9. Have you taken any medication for it?
10. Are you allergic to any medicines?
11. Have you experienced this before?
12. Does the pain affect your daily activities?
13. Have you had any recent injuries or accidents?
14. Is the pain sharp, dull, throbbing, or burning?
15. Do you have any family history of similar issues?
16. Are you currently under any treatment?
17. How is your appetite and sleep?
18. Have you traveled recently or been exposed to illness?
19. Are you experiencing any fever or chills?
20. Is there any swelling, redness, or heat in the affected area?

Reassuring Phrases :

1. I understand.
2. That must be uncomfortable.
3. You're doing great.
4. It’s okay to feel that way.
5. We’re here to help you.
6. You’re not alone in this.
7. Take your time.
8. We’ll take good care of you.
9. It’s normal to feel anxious.
10. Let me know if you need anything.
11. You’re in safe hands.
12. We’ll get through this together.
13. I’m here to listen.
14. You’re doing everything right.
15. Your feelings are valid.
16. Please don’t hesitate to ask questions.
17. We’ll keep you informed.
18. Your comfort is important to us.
19. You’re making progress.
20. I’m proud of your strength.

Chapter 5: Communicating with Colleagues

Teamwork Phrases

1. Let’s discuss the patient’s condition.
2. Can we review the latest test results together?
3. Please update me on any changes in the patient’s status.
4. Can you assist me with this procedure?
5. I need your help with the medication preparation.
6. Could you support me during this examination?
7. I will update the patient’s chart right now.
8. I’m documenting the latest observations.
9. I’ll enter the new prescription in the records.
10. Please check Room 3 for the patient’s vital signs.
11. Could you monitor the patient in Room 5?
12. The patient needs a blood test immediately.
13. Make sure the blood sample is sent to the lab.
14. We need to call the lab for urgent test results.
15. Let’s notify the radiology department for the scan.
16. Please prepare the equipment for the next procedure.
17. Can you organize the patient’s transfer to ICU?
18. Let’s coordinate with the pharmacy for the medication delivery.
19. We should update the family about the patient’s progress.
20. Can you help me with patient admissions at the front desk?
21. Let’s schedule the next consultation with the specialist.
22. Please inform the nurse on duty about the patient’s needs.
23. Let’s double-check the medication dosage before administration.
24. Can you assist in managing the emergency case?
25. I’ll handle the paperwork while you prepare the patient.
26. Let’s keep each other informed about any new symptoms.
27. Please report any unusual changes immediately.
28. Can you set up the monitoring devices for this patient?
29. We need to collaborate closely during this surgery.
30. Let’s debrief after the shift ends to discuss any issues.
31. Can you help with disinfecting the equipment after use?
32. Please ensure all safety protocols are followed during the procedure.
33. Let’s make sure the patient feels comfortable and reassured.
34. I’ll coordinate with the social worker for patient support.
35. Can you assist with updating the discharge instructions?
36. Let’s share the workload to avoid any delays.
37. Please check the stock of medical supplies regularly.
38. Can you cover for me during my break?
39. Let’s communicate clearly to avoid any mistakes.
40. 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

1. “Is there anything you would like us to know about your customs or preferences?”
2. “Would you prefer a male or female doctor?”
3. “Please let us know if you need a translator.”
4. “We respect your beliefs and will do our best to support them.”
5. “You are free to ask questions at any time.”
6. “Do you feel comfortable with this examination?”
7. “If there’s anything that makes you uncomfortable, please tell us.”
8. “We’ll explain every step before we proceed.”
9. “Take your time to decide — there’s no pressure.”
10. “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:

1. “Good morning. ABC Hospital, how may I help you?”
2. “This is the reception desk. How can I assist you?”
3. “Emergency ward, [Your Name] speaking.”

When Transferring the Call:

1. “Please hold while I transfer your call.”
2. “Let me connect you to the concerned department.”
3. “I will check if the doctor is available. Please stay on the line.”

When Taking a Message:

1. “May I take your name and number?”
2. “Can I take a message for Dr. [Name]?”
3. “I will pass on your message as soon as possible.”

When Making a Call:

1. “Hello, this is [Your Name] from ABC Hospital.”
2. “I’m calling to confirm your appointment for tomorrow.”
3. “We are calling to share your test results.”
4. "Your appointment is confirmed for 10 AM on Tuesday."  

For Clarity and Politeness:

1. "Can you spell your name for me, please?"
2. “Could you repeat that, please?”
3. “I’m sorry, could you speak a little louder?”
4. “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:  

This guide offers basic language support for healthcare communication and is intended for educational purposes only. For deeper understanding, accurate usage, and real-world application, we strongly recommend enrolling in certified medical English programs or learning under the guidance of qualified professionals.

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.