CNA Communication Dialogues for Adult English Learners
Dialogue 1: Meeting a New Elderly Patient
Setting: First day caring for Mrs. Chen, an 82-year-old Chinese-American woman
CNA Maria: Good morning, Mrs. Chen. My name is Maria, and I’ll be your nursing assistant today. How are you feeling this morning?
Mrs. Chen: Oh, hello dear. I’m a little tired. I didn’t sleep very well last night.
Maria: I’m sorry to hear that. Is there anything that kept you awake? Sometimes it helps to talk about it.
Mrs. Chen: The room was too bright. The light from the hallway comes in under the door.
Maria: I understand. That must be frustrating. Let me make a note about that, and we can try putting a towel at the bottom of your door tonight. Would that be okay?
Mrs. Chen: Yes, that sounds good. Thank you for listening.
Maria: Of course! That’s what I’m here for. Now, would you like some help getting washed and dressed for breakfast?
Mrs. Chen: Yes, please. But I can do some things myself. I don’t want to be a burden.
Maria: Mrs. Chen, you’re not a burden at all. I’m here to help with whatever you need. How about this—you tell me what you’d like to do yourself, and I’ll help with the rest?
Mrs. Chen: That sounds fair. I appreciate your patience with me.
Dialogue 2: Helping a Young Adult with Mobility Issues
Setting: Assisting James, a 24-year-old recovering from a motorcycle accident
CNA Robert: Hey James, how’s it going today? Ready for your physical therapy session?
James: Honestly, Robert, I’m not feeling it today. My leg is killing me.
Robert: I hear you, man. Pain is real, and it’s okay to feel frustrated. Have you taken your pain medication this morning?
James: Yeah, about an hour ago, but it doesn’t seem to be working.
Robert: Let me check with the nurse to see if we can adjust the timing or dosage. In the meantime, would you like me to get you an ice pack for your leg?
James: That’d be great, thanks. I just… I used to be so active, you know? This is really hard.
Robert: I can only imagine how tough this must be. But I’ve seen your progress this week, and you’re doing better than you think. You walked three more steps yesterday than you did on Monday.
James: Really? I didn’t notice.
Robert: Really. Recovery isn’t always a straight line, but you’re moving forward. And I’ll be right here supporting you through it.
James: Thanks, Robert. That actually helps to hear.
Robert: Anytime. Now, let me grab that ice pack and talk to the nurse. We’ll figure this out together.
Dialogue 3: Caring for a Patient with Dementia
Setting: Afternoon care for Mr. Johnson, a 76-year-old man with moderate dementia
CNA Sarah: Hello, Mr. Johnson! It’s Sarah. I’m here to help you get ready for dinner.
Mr. Johnson: (looking confused) Where’s my wife? She should be here by now.
Sarah: (sitting down beside him, speaking calmly) Your wife Mary called earlier. She said she’ll visit tomorrow afternoon. She sends her love.
Mr. Johnson: Tomorrow? But I need to talk to her today!
Sarah: I know you miss her. Tell me, what would you like to talk to her about? Maybe I can help you write her a note.
Mr. Johnson: (calming down) Well… I wanted to tell her about the garden. We used to have such beautiful roses.
Sarah: That sounds lovely. What color roses did you grow?
Mr. Johnson: Red ones, mostly. Mary’s favorites. She’d cut them and put them all over the house.
Sarah: What a wonderful memory. I bet they smelled amazing. Would you like to draw a picture of the roses for Mary? We could give it to her when she visits tomorrow.
Mr. Johnson: (smiling) Yes, I’d like that.
Sarah: Perfect. Let’s get you comfortable first, and then I’ll bring some paper and colored pencils. How does that sound?
Dialogue 4: Assisting a Spanish-Speaking Patient
Setting: Morning rounds with Mrs. Rodriguez, a 68-year-old who speaks limited English
CNA David: Buenos días, Mrs. Rodriguez. Good morning. How are you today?
Mrs. Rodriguez: Buenos días. I am… (struggling) un poco… a little pain here. (points to her back)
David: (speaking slowly and clearly) Your back hurts? I’m sorry. Can you show me where? Here? (gesturing to lower back)
Mrs. Rodriguez: Sí, yes. Here. (pointing to lower back)
David: Okay, I understand. Let me help you change position. This might feel better. May I? (gesturing to help her turn)
Mrs. Rodriguez: Sí, gracias. Thank you.
David: (helping her turn gently) Is this better? Mejor?
Mrs. Rodriguez: Sí, mejor. Better. You are very kind. Muy amable.
David: I’m glad I can help. Do you need anything else? Water? ¿Agua?
Mrs. Rodriguez: No, gracias. You speak Spanish?
David: Only a little. Un poco. But I’m learning. I want to help you feel comfortable.
Mrs. Rodriguez: (smiling) You are good person. Buen muchacho.
David: Thank you, Mrs. Rodriguez. I’ll check on you in one hour. Una hora. Okay?
Mrs. Rodriguez: Okay. Gracias, David.
Dialogue 5: Supporting a Nervous First-Time Hospital Patient
Setting: Pre-surgery preparation with Amanda, a 35-year-old having her first operation
CNA Lisa: Hi Amanda, I’m Lisa, your nursing assistant. I’ll be helping you get ready for surgery. How are you feeling?
Amanda: (voice shaking) Honestly? I’m terrified. I’ve never had surgery before.
Lisa: (pulling up a chair) It’s completely normal to feel scared. Many people feel this way before their first surgery. Can I sit with you for a few minutes?
Amanda: Yes, please. I feel so silly being this nervous.
Lisa: You’re not silly at all. Being nervous shows you’re taking this seriously. What part worries you the most?
Amanda: What if I don’t wake up? What if something goes wrong?
Lisa: Those are very common worries. Your surgeon is Dr. Matthews, and she’s performed this procedure hundreds of times. The whole team will be monitoring you the entire time.
Amanda: Will it hurt when I wake up?
Lisa: You’ll have pain medication to keep you comfortable. And I’ll be here when you wake up to make sure you have everything you need. You won’t be alone.
Amanda: (taking a deep breath) Okay. That helps. Can you… can you stay until they take me to surgery?
Lisa: Absolutely. I’m not going anywhere. And your husband can stay too until we go to the operating room. Is there anything I can get you right now?
Amanda: Maybe some water?
Lisa: Of course. I’ll be right back, and then we can talk about what to expect, or we can just chat about anything you’d like. Whatever makes you most comfortable.
Dialogue 6: Working with a Deaf Patient
Setting: Evening care with Mr. Williams, a 55-year-old deaf patient
CNA Jennifer: (entering the room, making sure Mr. Williams can see her, waving gently) Hello, Mr. Williams. (pointing to herself) I’m Jennifer.
Mr. Williams: (signing and speaking) Hello. You’re new?
Jennifer: (speaking clearly while facing him, using simple signs) Yes. I’m your nursing assistant tonight. (shows him her written notepad) I’m still learning sign language. Is it okay if I write some things down?
Mr. Williams: (nodding, speaking) Yes, that’s fine. Thank you for trying.
Jennifer: (writing on notepad, then showing it) “Do you need anything right now? Pain? Water? Bathroom?”
Mr. Williams: (reading, then speaking) I’m okay now. But later I need help to bathroom.
Jennifer: (writing) “No problem. I will check on you every hour. Just press this button if you need me sooner.” (demonstrating the call button)
Mr. Williams: (speaking) The other nurse didn’t always come when I pressed it.
Jennifer: (writing) “I’m sorry that happened. I promise I will come every time. You are important.”
Mr. Williams: (smiling, speaking) Thank you. That means a lot.
Jennifer: (showing him the communication board with pictures) I also have this picture board if writing is too slow. Would this help?
Mr. Williams: (nodding) Yes, good idea. You are thoughtful.
Jennifer: (writing) “I want you to feel comfortable. Please tell me if I can do anything better.”
Dialogue 7: Caring for a Pediatric Patient
Setting: Post-operative care for Ethan, an 8-year-old boy who just had his appendix removed
CNA Marcus: (knocking gently, speaking softly) Hey buddy, can I come in? My name is Marcus.
Ethan: (looking scared, with his mother beside him) Okay.
Marcus: (sitting down to be at eye level) I know you just had surgery, and you’re probably feeling pretty yucky right now. Your mom told me you were really brave.
Ethan: My tummy hurts a lot.
Marcus: I bet it does. The doctor gave you medicine to help with that. It should start working soon. Can you tell me, on a scale where zero is no pain and ten is the worst pain ever, what number is your pain?
Ethan: (thinking) Maybe… seven?
Marcus: (making a note) Okay, thank you for telling me. I’m going to check with your nurse to see if we can give you more medicine. Is that okay?
Ethan: Will it taste bad?
Marcus: Nope! This medicine goes through your IV, so you won’t taste anything. (showing him a sticker sheet) And look what I have—superhero stickers. If you’re brave during your checkups, you can pick one each time. Deal?
Ethan: (perking up a little) Deal! Can I have Spider-Man?
Marcus: Absolutely. He’s a great choice. Now, is there anything else I can get you? Maybe some ice chips to suck on?
Mother: That would be wonderful, thank you.
Marcus: Coming right up! Ethan, I’ll be back in just a few minutes. Your mom can press this button if you need me before then, okay?
Dialogue 8: Assisting a Muslim Patient During Ramadan
Setting: Evening care with Mr. Hassan, observing Ramadan
CNA Angela: Good evening, Mr. Hassan. How are you feeling today?
Mr. Hassan: Good evening, Angela. I’m doing well, thank you. A bit tired from fasting.
Angela: I wanted to check with you about your care schedule. I know you’re observing Ramadan. What time will you break your fast today?
Mr. Hassan: Sunset is at 7:43 PM today. I really appreciate you asking.
Angela: Of course! I want to make sure we respect your religious practices. Would you like me to bring your dinner tray right at that time?
Mr. Hassan: Yes, please. And if possible, I’d like a few minutes of privacy for prayer before eating.
Angela: Absolutely. I’ll make sure your dinner arrives at 7:43, and I’ll put a “Privacy Please” sign on your door from 7:30 to 7:45. Is there a particular direction you need to face for prayer?
Mr. Hassan: (looking touched) East, toward Mecca. You’ve done this before.
Angela: I’ve cared for several Muslim patients, and I’ve learned how important these practices are. Your faith is a source of strength during your healing, and I want to support that. Is there anything special you need for your meals?
Mr. Hassan: The kitchen has been very good about providing halal meals. I just need water and perhaps some dates to break the fast.
Angela: I’ll make sure you have fresh dates and water ready. Is there anything else I can do to make you more comfortable during Ramadan?
Mr. Hassan: You’ve already done so much just by being respectful and understanding. Thank you, Angela.
Dialogue 9: Supporting a Patient with Anxiety
Setting: Pre-procedure conversation with Michael, a 42-year-old with severe anxiety
CNA Tom: Hi Michael, I’m Tom. I’ll be with you for the next few hours. I see from your chart that you experience anxiety. Is that right?
Michael: (breathing rapidly) Yes. I’m already starting to panic. I hate medical procedures.
Tom: (speaking calmly) I understand. Anxiety is very real, and I’m here to help you through this. What usually helps you when you’re feeling anxious?
Michael: (wringing hands) Deep breathing sometimes works, but I can’t seem to do it right now.
Tom: That’s okay. Let’s try together. Can you watch me and breathe with me? (demonstrates slow, deep breathing) In through your nose for four counts… hold for four… out through your mouth for four.
Michael: (trying to follow) It’s… it’s hard.
Tom: You’re doing it. Keep going. I’m right here with you. (continues breathing with him) There you go. That’s better.
Michael: (breathing slowing slightly) Okay… okay. That’s a little better.
Tom: Great job. Now, I want to explain everything before we do it, so there are no surprises. Is that helpful for you?
Michael: Yes, surprises make it worse.
Tom: Perfect. So here’s exactly what’s going to happen… (explains step by step) And you can say “stop” or “wait” at any time. You’re in control here. Does that sound okay?
Michael: If I can stop whenever I need to, that helps a lot.
Tom: Absolutely. This is a team effort. I’ll also check in with you frequently to see how you’re doing. And if you need to take a break, we take a break. Your comfort is the priority.
Dialogue 10: Communicating with a Visually Impaired Patient
Setting: Morning care with Mrs. Anderson, who is legally blind
CNA Rachel: (knocking on the door) Good morning, Mrs. Anderson. It’s Rachel, your nursing assistant. May I come in?
Mrs. Anderson: Good morning, Rachel. Yes, please come in.
Rachel: (entering, speaking as she moves) I’m walking toward your bed now. I’m about three feet away… now I’m right beside you on your left side. How did you sleep?
Mrs. Anderson: Not too badly, thank you. I appreciate you telling me where you are.
Rachel: Of course! I want to make sure you always know what’s happening. I’m going to help you with breakfast this morning. Let me describe what’s on your tray. (touching her hand gently first) May I guide your hand to show you where everything is?
Mrs. Anderson: Yes, that would be helpful.
Rachel: (guiding her hand) Okay, if your tray is a clock face, your coffee cup is at two o’clock, your oatmeal is at six o’clock, and your toast is at ten o’clock. Your spoon is right next to the oatmeal.
Mrs. Anderson: Perfect. You’re very good at this.
Rachel: Thank you. I also wanted to let you know that I’m going to step back about five feet to make some notes in your chart, but I’m staying in the room. I’ll let you know before I leave.
Mrs. Anderson: I appreciate that. Some assistants just disappear without saying anything, and I don’t know if they’re still there.
Rachel: That must be unsettling. I’ll always tell you when I’m leaving or entering, and I’ll describe anything I’m doing. Is there anything else that would make you more comfortable?
Mrs. Anderson: You’re already doing wonderfully. Just keep being this thoughtful.
Rachel: I will. And please let me know if there’s ever anything I can do better. Your feedback helps me provide better care.
Dialogue 11: Helping a Patient from a Different Cultural Background
Setting: Afternoon care with Mrs. Patel, a 70-year-old Indian patient
CNA Kevin: Good afternoon, Mrs. Patel. How are you feeling today?
Mrs. Patel: Hello, Kevin. I’m feeling better, thank you. But I wanted to ask you something.
Kevin: Of course, anything.
Mrs. Patel: My daughter-in-law is bringing food from home later. Is that allowed? The hospital food is fine, but I’m not used to it.
Kevin: That’s a great question. Let me check with your nurse about your dietary restrictions, but in general, we encourage family to bring food from home if it makes you more comfortable. What kind of food will she bring?
Mrs. Patel: Dal and rice, some vegetables. Simple vegetarian food. It’s what I’ve eaten my whole life.
Kevin: That sounds delicious and very healthy. I’ll make sure the nurse approves it, and we can store it properly in our refrigerator if needed. I want you to feel at home here as much as possible.
Mrs. Patel: Thank you. Also, I prefer to wash with warm water before eating. Is there a way I can do that?
Kevin: Absolutely. I can bring you a basin of warm water and soap whenever you need it. Would you like that before each meal?
Mrs. Patel: Yes, please. You’re very understanding. In my culture, cleanliness before meals is very important.
Kevin: And we respect that completely. Your cultural practices are important to your wellbeing. Is there anything else that would make you more comfortable? For example, how you’d like to be addressed, or any other customs you observe?
Mrs. Patel: You’re already very respectful. Just one thing—I prefer to keep my head covered. If I need to remove my scarf for any medical reason, I’d appreciate privacy.
Kevin: Of course. I’ll make a note in your chart so all staff know to provide extra privacy in those situations. Thank you for telling me.
Dialogue 12: Supporting a Postpartum Patient
Setting: Care for Jessica, a 28-year-old who gave birth two days ago
CNA Michelle: Hi Jessica! How are you and baby Emma doing this morning?
Jessica: (looking exhausted) Honestly, I’m so tired I could cry. She was up every hour last night.
Michelle: (sitting down) That sounds exhausting. Being a new mom is incredibly hard, especially in the first few days. Have you been able to rest at all?
Jessica: Not really. And I feel like I should be happier. Everyone keeps saying how blessed I am, and I am, but I’m just so overwhelmed.
Michelle: What you’re feeling is completely normal. Your hormones are changing, you’re sleep-deprived, and you’re learning to care for a brand-new person. It’s okay not to feel perfect joy every moment.
Jessica: (tearing up) Really? I thought something was wrong with me.
Michelle: Not at all. Many new mothers feel this way. It’s called the “baby blues,” and it’s very common. Now, let’s make sure you get some rest. How about I watch Emma in the nursery for two hours so you can sleep? Would that help?
Jessica: But I should be bonding with her…
Michelle: You’ll bond better when you’re rested. Taking care of yourself is part of taking care of her. And two hours of sleep will make a big difference. What do you think?
Jessica: (sighing with relief) That sounds amazing, actually.
Michelle: Perfect. I’ll also let the nurse know how you’re feeling so we can monitor you. If these feelings get worse or last more than a couple of weeks, we want to make sure you get extra support. But right now, let’s get you that rest. Sound good?
Jessica: Yes. Thank you for understanding.
Dialogue 13: Assisting an End-of-Life Patient
Setting: Comfort care for Mr. Thompson, an 85-year-old in hospice
CNA Daniel: (speaking softly) Hello, Mr. Thompson. It’s Daniel. I’m here to make sure you’re comfortable. Can you hear me?
Mr. Thompson: (weakly) Yes… I’m here.
Daniel: Good. I’m going to check your position and make sure you’re not in any pain. Can you tell me how you’re feeling? Any discomfort?
Mr. Thompson: My mouth… very dry.
Daniel: I’ll take care of that right away. I’m going to use these special swabs to moisten your mouth. (gently moistening his lips and mouth) Is that better?
Mr. Thompson: Yes… thank you.
Daniel: You’re welcome. I’m also going to adjust your pillow just a little bit to support your neck better. (carefully adjusting) There we go. How’s that?
Mr. Thompson: Good. My daughter… is she coming?
Daniel: Yes, she called about twenty minutes ago. She’s on her way and should be here within the hour. Would you like me to sit with you until she arrives?
Mr. Thompson: Please… don’t want to be alone.
Daniel: (pulling a chair close to the bed) I’m not going anywhere. I’m right here with you. Is there anything else I can do to make you more comfortable? Would you like some music or the TV on?
Mr. Thompson: Just… talk to me.
Daniel: I can do that. You know, your daughter told me you used to be a school teacher. What subject did you teach?
Mr. Thompson: (a faint smile) History… loved history.
Daniel: That’s wonderful. I bet you had so many interesting stories to share with your students. What period of history was your favorite?
(Daughter arrives)
Daniel: (standing) Mr. Thompson, your daughter is here. (to daughter, quietly) He’s been resting comfortably. I’ve been keeping him company. I’ll give you privacy, but I’ll be right outside if you need anything at all.
Dialogue 14: Working with a Non-Compliant Patient
Setting: Medication time with Mr. Brooks, a 65-year-old who refuses medications
CNA Samantha: Good morning, Mr. Brooks. I have your morning medications ready.
Mr. Brooks: (crossing arms) I’m not taking those. They make me feel sick.
Samantha: (sitting down) I understand you’re feeling sick from the medications. Can you tell me more about what’s happening? Which symptoms are bothering you?
Mr. Brooks: All of them! I feel dizzy, and my stomach hurts. I was fine before I came here.
Samantha: That must be really frustrating. I want to help, but I need to understand better. Did these symptoms start after you began taking these specific medications, or was it gradual?
Mr. Brooks: Started about two days ago. After that blue pill.
Samantha: Thank you for telling me that. That’s important information. I can’t change your medications, but your doctor can. Would it be okay if I let the nurse know about these side effects? She can contact your doctor to see if there are alternatives.
Mr. Brooks: Will they actually listen?
Samantha: I’ll make sure your concerns are heard. Your comfort matters, and if medications are making you feel worse, that’s something we need to address. But in the meantime, some of these medications are really important for your condition. Can I explain what each one does?
Mr. Brooks: (hesitating) I guess so.
Samantha: (showing each pill) This white one is for your blood pressure. Skipping it could cause serious problems like a stroke. This one is for pain. And this blue one—the one you mentioned—is an antibiotic. Let me talk to the nurse right away about the blue one. Would you be willing to take the other two while we sort out the antibiotic issue?
Mr. Brooks: If you really think they’re necessary…
Samantha: I do, and here’s why… (explains each medication’s importance) But I also hear your concerns, and I’m going to advocate for you. We’re on the same team here. Deal?
Mr. Brooks: (uncrossing arms) Okay, deal.
Dialogue 15: Helping a Patient with Limited English After a Fall
Setting: Post-fall assessment with Mr. Kim, a 73-year-old Korean patient
CNA Brandon: (entering calmly) Hello, Mr. Kim. I heard you fell. I’m here to help. Are you hurt? (gestures to different body parts)
Mr. Kim: (on the floor, looking scared) I… fall. Bathroom. (pointing)
Brandon: Okay, okay. Don’t move yet. I need to check if you’re injured. (kneeling beside him, speaking slowly) Does anything hurt? Pain? (gestures to head, arms, legs)
Mr. Kim: (touching his hip) Here… pain. (grimacing)
Brandon: (nodding) Your hip hurts. I understand. I’m going to call the nurse, and we’ll help you safely. Don’t try to get up. (pressing call button, speaking into it clearly) “This is Brandon in room 304. Patient had a fall. He has hip pain. We need nurse assessment before moving him.”
Mr. Kim: (looking worried) Sorry… sorry.
Brandon: (shaking head, speaking gently) No sorry. Accidents happen. You did nothing wrong. (making an X with his hands) Not your fault. We will help you. (giving thumbs up)
Mr. Kim: Bathroom… need go.
Brandon: (understanding) You needed the bathroom. That’s why you got up. I understand. After the nurse checks you, we will help. Maybe bedpan for now? (showing picture on communication board)
Mr. Kim: (nodding reluctantly) Okay.
Brandon: (getting a blanket) I’m going to keep you warm while we wait for the nurse. (covering him gently) Comfortable? (thumbs up gesture)
Mr. Kim: (nodding) Thank you. You… kind.
Brandon: (smiling) You’re welcome. We’ll take good care of you. The nurse will be here very soon. (sitting beside him) I’ll stay with you. Not alone. (pointing to himself, then to Mr. Kim, then clasping hands together)
Mr. Kim: (relaxing slightly) Good. Thank you.
(Nurse arrives and Brandon helps translate using simple words and gestures)
Brandon: (to nurse) He has pain in his left hip. He was trying to get to the bathroom when he fell. He’s worried about using the bedpan but understands it’s necessary until we assess him. He seems alert and aware.
COMPREHENSIVE VOCABULARY LIST
Medical Terms
Assess/Assessment – To evaluate or examine a patient’s condition carefully
Example: “I need to assess your pain level before we continue.”
Antibiotic – Medicine that fights bacterial infections
Example: “This antibiotic will help clear your infection.”
Blood pressure – The force of blood pushing against artery walls
Example: “Your blood pressure is a little high today.”
CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) – A healthcare worker who helps patients with daily activities and basic care
Example: “I’m a CNA, and I’ll be helping you today.”
Call button – A button patients press to request help from staff
Example: “Press this call button if you need anything.”
Chart – A patient’s medical record or file
Example: “I need to make notes in your chart.”
Comfortable – Feeling physically and emotionally at ease
Example: “Let me adjust your pillow so you’re more comfortable.”
Dementia – A condition causing memory loss and confusion
Example: “Patients with dementia may not remember recent events.”
Dietary restrictions – Limitations on what foods a patient can eat
Example: “Do you have any dietary restrictions I should know about?”
Dosage – The amount of medicine to be taken
Example: “Let me check if we can adjust your dosage.”
Hospice – End-of-life care focused on comfort rather than cure
Example: “Hospice care helps patients feel peaceful in their final days.”
IV (Intravenous) – Medicine or fluids given through a vein
Example: “Your medicine goes through your IV.”
Medication – Medicine prescribed by a doctor
Example: “Have you taken your morning medication?”
Mobility – The ability to move around
Example: “Your mobility is improving each day.”
Monitor – To watch or check something carefully and regularly
Example: “We’ll monitor your temperature throughout the day.”
Non-compliant – When a patient refuses or doesn’t follow medical instructions
Example: “The patient is non-compliant with his medication schedule.”
Pain medication – Medicine given to reduce or eliminate pain
Example: “I’ll get you some pain medication right away.”
Physical therapy – Treatment using exercises to improve movement and strength
Example: “Your physical therapy session is in one hour.”
Post-operative/Post-surgery – After an operation
Example: “Post-operative care is very important for healing.”
Postpartum – The period after giving birth
Example: “Postpartum depression affects many new mothers.”
Pre-procedure – Before a medical procedure
Example: “I’ll explain the pre-procedure steps to you.”
Privacy – Being alone or away from others, personal space
Example: “I’ll give you privacy while you change.”
Procedure – A medical test or treatment
Example: “The procedure should only take about 30 minutes.”
Recovery – The process of getting better after illness or injury
Example: “Your recovery is going very well.”
Side effects – Unwanted symptoms caused by medication
Example: “Dizziness is a common side effect of this medicine.”
Stroke – When blood flow to the brain is blocked, causing damage
Example: “High blood pressure can lead to a stroke.”
Symptoms – Signs of illness or discomfort
Example: “Please tell me about your symptoms.”
Vital signs – Basic body measurements like temperature, pulse, and blood pressure
Example: “I need to check your vital signs.”
Communication & Emotional Support Terms
Acknowledge – To recognize and respond to someone’s feelings or words
Example: “I want to acknowledge that this is really difficult for you.”
Advocate – To speak up or fight for someone’s needs
Example: “I’ll advocate for you with the doctor.”
Anxious/Anxiety – Feeling very worried or nervous
Example: “It’s normal to feel anxious before surgery.”
Compassion – Deep caring and sympathy for someone who is suffering
Example: “Our staff treats everyone with compassion.”
Concern – Worry or care about something
Example: “I have some concerns about your symptoms.”
Dignity – Being treated with respect and honor
Example: “Every patient deserves to be treated with dignity.”
Empathy – Understanding and sharing another person’s feelings
Example: “I can show empathy by listening to your worries.”
Frustrated/Frustration – Feeling annoyed or upset because things aren’t going well
Example: “I can see you’re feeling frustrated. Let’s talk about it.”
Overwhelmed – Feeling like you can’t handle everything
Example: “Many new parents feel overwhelmed at first.”
Patient (adjective) – Able to wait calmly, not getting angry or upset
Example: “Thank you for being patient while I learn.”
Reassure – To make someone feel less worried
Example: “I want to reassure you that we’ll be here all night.”
Respect – Treating someone well and honoring their wishes
Example: “We respect your religious practices.”
Support – To help and encourage someone
Example: “I’m here to support you through this.”
Understanding (adjective) – Showing sympathy and kindness
Example: “Thank you for being so understanding.”
Cultural & Religious Terms
Cultural background – The customs, beliefs, and practices from someone’s culture
Example: “People from different cultural backgrounds may have different healthcare expectations.”
Custom – A traditional practice or way of doing things
Example: “What customs are important to you during your care?”
Faith – Religious belief
Example: “Your faith can be a source of comfort during healing.”
Halal – Food prepared according to Islamic law
Example: “We can provide halal meals upon request.”
Prayer – Communicating with God or a higher power
Example: “Would you like some time for prayer?”
Ramadan – Islamic holy month of fasting from sunrise to sunset
Example: “We’ll adjust your meal schedule during Ramadan.”
Religious practices – Activities related to religion
Example: “We respect all religious practices in this facility.”
Sacred – Holy or very important to someone’s religion
Example: “This is a sacred time for the patient.”
Daily Care Terms
Assist/Assistance – To help
Example: “Do you need assistance getting out of bed?”
Basin – A large bowl used for washing
Example: “I’ll bring a basin of warm water.”
Bedpan – A container used as a toilet for patients who can’t get up
Example: “Would you like to use the bedpan?”
Burden – Something heavy or difficult to carry; a problem for others
Example: “You’re not a burden—it’s my job to help you.”
Change position – To move someone to a different position in bed
Example: “Let’s change your position to prevent bedsores.”
Checkup – A medical examination
Example: “The doctor will do a checkup this afternoon.”
Ice pack – A cold pack used to reduce swelling or pain
Example: “An ice pack might help with the swelling.”
Personal care – Help with bathing, dressing, and toileting
Example: “I’m here to help with your personal care needs.”
Progress – Improvement or forward movement
Example: “You’re making good progress in your recovery.”
Rounds – When healthcare workers visit each patient to check on them
Example: “I’ll be doing rounds every two hours.”
General Professional Terms
Appropriate – Suitable or correct for the situation
Example: “I want to use appropriate words when speaking with you.”
Approach – The way you deal with a situation
Example: “I try to use a gentle approach with nervous patients.”
Boundary – A limit or rule about what is acceptable
Example: “Professional boundaries keep the relationship appropriate.”
Clarification – Making something clear or easier to understand
Example: “Can I ask for clarification about your symptoms?”
Communication board – A board with pictures used to help people communicate
Example: “This communication board can help us understand each other.”
Feedback – Comments or opinions about how someone is doing
Example: “Your feedback helps me improve my care.”
Note (verb) – To write down information
Example: “Let me note that in your chart.”
Observe – To watch carefully
Example: “I’ll observe how you’re walking to see if you need help.”
Policy – Official rules or guidelines
Example: “According to hospital policy, visiting hours end at 8 PM.”
Priority – The most important thing
Example: “Your comfort is my priority.”
Professional – Related to work; behaving in a skilled, appropriate way
Example: “I maintain a professional relationship with all patients.”
Schedule – A plan of when things will happen
Example: “What’s your schedule for physical therapy?”
Thoughtful – Showing care and consideration for others
Example: “Thank you for being so thoughtful about my needs.”
Phrases & Idioms
“Feeling under the weather” – Feeling sick or unwell
Example: “You look like you’re feeling under the weather today.”
“Hang in there” – Keep trying, don’t give up
Example: “Recovery is hard, but hang in there!”
“Take it one day at a time” – Focus on the present, not the future
Example: “Don’t worry about next week. Take it one day at a time.”
“We’re on the same team” – We’re working together toward the same goal
Example: “I’m not here to force you. We’re on the same team.”
“You’re in good hands” – You’re being cared for by skilled people
Example: “Don’t worry, you’re in good hands here.”
Study Tips for Using These Dialogues:
- Read each dialogue aloud to practice pronunciation and natural speech patterns
- Role-play with a study partner, switching between CNA and patient roles
- Focus on tone – notice how CNAs remain calm, patient, and respectful
- Practice cultural sensitivity by understanding how different backgrounds affect care
- Learn key phrases from each dialogue that you can adapt to different situations
- Review the vocabulary in context to understand how words are actually used
- Notice body language cues mentioned in the dialogues (sitting down, making eye contact, etc.)
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