Communication cards

Communication cards contain a set of icons that patients can use if they are having difficulty communicating their immediate needs, wants or concerns. These cards can be very useful during hospital visits or stays.

The cards can be printed and left with the patient during their visit in a healthcare service.

Patients and their families can point to the relevant icons to help their communication with staff. It is hoped that these cards will improve the safety and quality of care for some of our patients who may not be able to communicate effectively.

Communication cards
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Language identification chart(external link) Refugee Council, UK, 2020
This chart contains translations for “I speak (language)” in 62 languages.

Pacific Language Cards(external link) from Ministry for Pacific Peoples, NZ

A set of cards for people with hearing loss to use in different situations to assist with communication.

Deaf and hard of hearing communication cards(external link) Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora, NZ

The Ward Communication Tool was developed to help Queensland Health staff communicate with people who do not speak English well, or at all, about simple day-to-day issues.

The tool contains words commonly used in the healthcare setting.

The tool can be used to communicate simple needs. For more complex communication, engage a professional interpreter.

If you're not sure which language to choose use the language identification card(external link). The person can choose their preferred language. 

Languages

More languages are available from Queensland Health, Australia(external link)

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