[VickyRN]

• Avoid jargon, use common terms, i.e.; “high blood pressure” instead of “hypertension,” or “shots” instead of “immunizations.”
• Assess health literacy without causing shame by posing questions such as, “Many people don’t understand what this illness is. What do you think it is?”
• When explaining an illness or treatment, stick to a few key points the patient will remember.
• Use illustrations, pictures, and models whenever possible.
• Use “teach-back” methods, such as asking patients how they might explain their illness or medication regimen to spouses or friends.
• Make sure written educational materials are easy to read and understand.
• Use basic technology, such as the telephone or e-mail for patients who are comfortable communicating by computer, to follow up and make sure patients understand and are complying with treatment plans.

http://news.nurse.com/apps/pbcs.dll/...CA09/707020303