Few would disagree that honoring dignity is vital to providing good care. And how we speak to those we care for is firmly tied to conveying respect and preserving elders' dignity.

"We have looked at language and its importance before, but what about policy implications? Is it possible to mandate the way we speak to each other? Recognizing the power of language, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) in F-tag 241 483.15(a) Dignity, does specifically mention certain aspects of language and their impact. It reminds us that how we show respect, or a lack thereof, through the way we address residents is important enough to be formally guided by regulation."

Download our free eBook, Creating a Safe and Caring Hospital.

Already an Instructor or Site Member? Login to access your free resource.