Reference

Guide | Reference

117  Communication Tools

Optional reference material; not required for routine use.

Purpose. Provide neutral, patient-respectful language for explaining formulations. Support team communication without overclaiming certainty.

117.1 Patient-Facing Language Patterns

• “Here’s what we think is happening and why.”
• “These experiences often travel together.”
• “This is our best current explanation; we’ll keep testing it.”

117.2 Team-Facing Language Patterns

• Presenting problem line + domain ratings.
• Specifiers that change risk or management.
• Uncertainty and competing explanations.

117.3 Family and Caregiver Communication

• Emphasize safety, support needs, and practical observations.
• Avoid stigmatizing labels when possible.

Documentation Output. One-line formulation summary for handoff. Shared decision-making statement included when relevant.