English for

Specific
Purposes Investigations and
(ESP)
Diagnosis

1 English for Specific Purposes (ESP) - first term 1445

Contents:

1. Investigations and Diagnosis Part I

Explaining Investigations
Discussing a Diagnosis

2. Investigation and Diagnosis Part II

Explaining a Diagnosis
Case Study

3. Acronyms related to Medical Investigation and Diagnosis

Investigations and Diagnosis Part I
(Explaining and discussing Investigations and Diagnosis)
 Investigations and Diagnosis Part I
The process of investigations and diagnosis in healthcare is crucial for
identifying medical conditions, determining their causes, and developing
appropriate treatment plans. This involves explaining and discussing various
investigative procedures with the patient, as well as the ultimate diagnosis.
Here's how this process can be approached:

Explaining Investigations:
1. Patient-Centered Approach:
• Begin by acknowledging the patient's concerns and symptoms.
• Emphasize that investigations are essential to understand their condition fully.
2. Step-by-Step Explanation:

• Describe the specific investigations or tests that will be conducted.

• Explain the purpose of each test and how it contributes to the overall
diagnostic process.

• Use simple language and avoid overwhelming medical terminology.

3. Risks and Benefits:

• Discuss any potential risks or discomfort associated with the investigations.

• Balance this with the benefits of obtaining accurate information for diagnosis
and treatment planning.
4. Timing and Scheduling:
• Provide information about when and where each investigation will take place.
• Discuss any preparation or fasting requirements, if applicable.
• Address concerns about scheduling and waiting times.
5. Answer Questions:
• Encourage the patient to ask questions at any point during the explanation.
• Ensure they understand the importance of the investigations in their care.
Discussing Investigations:
6. Patient Involvement:
• Involve the patient in decision-making when appropriate, such as choosing
between diagnostic options.
• Respect their preferences and concerns.
7. Managing Anxiety:
• Acknowledge that patients may feel anxious about the investigations.
• Offer emotional support and strategies for coping with anxiety.
8. Informed Consent:
• Clearly explain that their consent is needed before each investigation.
• Ensure they are aware of the nature of the investigation, its purpose, and any
potential risks.
9. Family Involvement:
• Discuss whether the patient wishes to involve family members or a support
person during the investigations.
• Address any privacy concerns related to family involvement.
Discussing Diagnosis:
10. Sharing Results:
• Once investigations are complete, explain that you will discuss the findings
and diagnosis with them.
• Emphasize that this is a critical step in understanding and managing their
health condition.
11. Sensitivity and Empathy:
• Be prepared for a range of emotional reactions from the patient.
• Approach the discussion with empathy and sensitivity, especially if the
diagnosis is serious or life-changing.
12. Plain Language:
• Present the diagnosis in simple, understandable terms.
• Avoid medical jargon and explain any unfamiliar terms.
13. Treatment Options:
• Discuss available treatment options and their potential benefits and risks.
• Include the patient in the decision-making process, considering their
preferences and values.
14. Support and Follow-Up:
• Offer information about support services, resources, and follow-up
appointments.
• Reiterate your commitment to providing ongoing care and addressing any
further questions or concerns.
15. Documentation:

• Ensure that the diagnosis and discussion are properly documented in the
patient's medical records.

Effective communication and patient-centered care are paramount throughout

the investigations and diagnosis process. Tailor your approach to each patient's
unique needs, and prioritize their understanding, involvement, and emotional
well-being.
Investigation and Diagnosis Part II

(Explaining a Diagnosis, Case study)

Continuing from Part I, let's explore how to explain a diagnosis and
apply these principles to a case study:
Explaining a Diagnosis:
1. Delivering the Diagnosis:
• Choose an appropriate setting, ensuring privacy and minimal interruptions.
• Begin by expressing empathy and acknowledging the patient's concerns.
2. Clarity and Simplicity:
• Use clear and simple language to convey the diagnosis.
• Avoid medical jargon and acronyms.
• Frame the information in a way the patient can understand.
3. Visual Aids:
• If applicable, use visual aids like diagrams or charts to illustrate the condition
and its effects.
4. Understanding the Diagnosis:
• Ask the patient if they have any prior knowledge or experience with the
condition to gauge their existing understanding.
5. Explaining the Diagnosis:
• Describe the nature of the condition, including its name and how it affects the
body.
• Explain any contributing factors or causes.
• Mention how common or rare the condition is, if relevant.
6. Discussing Prognosis:
• Provide information on the expected course of the condition, including
whether it is acute, chronic, or progressive.
• Mention the potential for improvement or stabilization with treatment.
7. Treatment Options:
• Outline available treatment options, including medications, therapies, lifestyle
changes, and surgical interventions.
• Discuss the benefits and risks of each option.
• Emphasize the importance of patient involvement in treatment decisions.
8. Support and Coping:
• Offer emotional support and recommend resources for coping with the
diagnosis.
• Discuss support groups, counseling, or therapy options.
9. Questions and Concerns:
• Encourage the patient to ask questions and express their concerns.
• Address each question with patience and thorough explanations.
10. Next Steps:
• Provide a clear plan for follow-up appointments, tests, or consultations.
• Summarize the key points of the diagnosis and treatment plan.
• Offer to share written materials for reference.
Case Study:
You are a family physician, and a 45-year-old patient named Sarah comes to
your office with persistent fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and night sweats.
After a series of investigations, you've diagnosed her with Hodgkin's lymphoma.
Steps to Follow:
1. Delivering the Diagnosis:
• Ensure a private and comfortable consultation room.
• Start the conversation by saying, "Sarah, I understand you've been
experiencing some concerning symptoms, and I have the results of the tests we
conducted."
2. Clarity and Simplicity:
• Use straightforward language: "The results show that you have a type of
cancer called Hodgkin's lymphoma."
3. Visual Aids:
• Display a diagram of the lymphatic system to help explain the condition's
location and impact.
4. Understanding the Diagnosis:
• Ask Sarah if she has heard of Hodgkin's lymphoma before and if she has any
initial questions.
5. Explaining the Diagnosis:
• Describe the nature of Hodgkin's lymphoma, an uncommon cancer that
affects the lymphatic system.
• Mention that it is highly treatable, especially when detected early.
6. Discussing Prognosis:
• Explain that the prognosis can be favorable with proper treatment.
• Mention that early diagnosis is essential for successful management.
7. Treatment Options:
• Discuss treatment options, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and
the possibility of a multidisciplinary approach.
• Mention that the specific treatment plan will depend on further assessments.
8. Support and Coping:
• Offer emotional support and recommend a local cancer support group.
• Discuss the availability of counseling services.
9. Questions and Concerns:
• Encourage Sarah to ask any questions or express her concerns.
• Address her questions thoroughly and empathetically.
10. Next Steps:
• Outline the plan for further consultations with an oncologist.
• Provide written materials about Hodgkin's lymphoma, its treatment, and
support resources.

In this case study, delivering the diagnosis of a serious medical condition like
Hodgkin's lymphoma requires utmost sensitivity and clarity. Providing
information, support, and a clear plan for next steps is essential to help the
patient navigate their diagnosis and treatment journey.
 Acronyms Related to Medical Investigation and Diagnosis
• MRI - Magnetic Resonance Imaging
• CT - Computed Tomography
• CBC - Complete Blood Count
• ECG - Electrocardiogram
• PET - Positron Emission Tomography
• DNA - Deoxyribonucleic Acid (used for genetic
investigation)
• RNA - Ribonucleic Acid (used for genetic
investigation)
• UTI - Urinary Tract Infection
• HIV - Human Immunodeficiency Virus
• CPR - Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (used for life-
saving, not diagnosis)
• AIDS - acquired immunodeficiency syndrome
• EMR - Electronic Medical Record
• HIPAA - Health Insurance Portability and
Accountability Act (not directly related to diagnosis)
• HN - HIV Negative (used for HIV test results)
• NLR - No Life-threatening Resuscitation Needed (used
during emergencies)
• FDA - Food and Drug Administration (regulatory
body, not for diagnosis)
• WHO - World Health Organization (global health
organization, not for diagnosis)
• NSD - No Significant Diagnosis (used to indicate no
significant findings)
• NAD - No Abnormality Detected (commonly used in
radiology)
• BNAD - Blood Normal, No Abnormality Detected (for
blood test results)
• EN - ECG Normal (for electrocardiogram results)
• NPD - No Pathological Diagnosis (for imaging results)
• NWD - No Worrisome Diagnosis (used to reassure
patients)
• NRD - No Relevant Diagnosis (for discussions on
unrelated conditions)
• NUDI - No Urinary Diagnosis Identified (for urological
investigations)