For the professional
Use this sheet during an initial injury consultation, before discharge or when a patient needs clarification about the care they have received.
Start by asking what the patient understands about the injury and which questions concern them most. Use the discussion prompts to explain the assessment, current treatment and next steps.
Adapt the conversation to the patient’s actual diagnosis and care plan. Before the discussion ends, confirm that the patient understands the important instructions, warning signs, follow-up arrangements and whom to contact if a problem occurs.
The patient or a caregiver may use the printable sheet to record information and questions.
After-injury conversation sheet
Understanding your injury and what happens next
Use these questions during your appointment or before leaving the healthcare facility. You can ask them yourself or have a family member or caregiver help you.
You do not need to ask every question. Start with the ones that matter most to you.
1. Understanding my injury
- What injury do I have, or what injury is suspected?
- Which part of my body is affected?
- What did the examination or tests show?
- Do I need any further tests?
- Is anything about my injury still uncertain?
2. Understanding my treatment
- What treatment or care have I received?
- What is the next step in my treatment?
- Do I need a cast, splint, dressing, surgery or another treatment?
- What medicines have been recommended, and how should I use them?
- Are there activities or movements I should avoid?
- What should I do if I have difficulty following the instructions at home?
3. Going home safely
- What symptoms should I expect after the injury?
- Which changes should I report to a healthcare professional?
- Which symptoms require urgent or emergency care?
- What should I do if I have a problem at home?
- Whom should I contact if I need advice?
4. Planning my next steps
- Do I need another appointment?
- Will I need another examination or test?
- When can I return to school, work or normal activities?
- Do I need help with walking or daily activities?
- Is there anything my family or caregiver should know?
Date:
Facility or location:
Name or facility:
Telephone:
Before you leave
Make sure you understand:
- What is known about your injury.
- What care you need at home.
- Which symptoms require medical attention.
- When and where your next appointment will take place.
- Whom to contact if you have questions or problems.
If something is unclear, ask your healthcare professional to explain it again.