Different Ways to Communicate in Health and Social Care

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There are many different ways in which communication can take place at a care setting. These are: oral, written, computerised and special methods. I will look at each method in turn and give examples of how each method is used. Oral communication is used every day. The staff can discuss with each other which service users will be attending and what type of care they will be receiving. The service users will talk with each other about things such as what is on television, issues that have been reported in the news and general items of talk. Written communication is frequently used in a care setting. On the first visit, the care worker will ask the service user many questions. The responses given will be used to draw up a care plan. This is a written document which identifies what the service user can do and what they need help with. Every day, the care staff will write in the service user’s notes what activities have been completed and what progress has been made by the service user. Computerised communication is used in a care setting. Service users with little or no speech can use computer aided communication to communicate their needs effectively. sustained brain injuries and are unable to communicate verbally. Some service users may be unable to type in the words and so they can be supplied with computers which show pictures of everyday objects such as a drink, a bath, the toilet. This enables the service user to express their needs. A care setting often has a fax machine, which enables the staff to communicate electronically with GPs and hospital personnel. They may also have internet access, which again will enable the staff to communicate electronically via email. Some of the service users may have a hearing impairment or no hearing and communicate by using British Sign Language. It is essential for the care environment to have members of staff who
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