Written Communication and Records

Written Communication and Records supports meeting I 1.1. For dental nurses this covers producing and maintaining written information, records, forms, aftercare instructions and handover notes that protect patient safety.

Effective written communication underpins consent, dignity, reassurance, accurate records, safe handover, prevention and escalation of concerns.

These tasks appear in ordinary moments: a patient who looks uncertain, a receptionist asking for guidance, a dentist working quickly, a trainee needing feedback, a digital message, a handover, or a colleague unsure about raising a concern. Interpersonal skill means responding with care, clarity and professional judgement.

Practical markers

• Notice: what the patient, colleague, situation or system is communicating.
• Choose: a communication method, team route or escalation step that fits the context.
• Respect: role boundaries, confidentiality, dignity, cultural needs and emotional impact.
• Check: understanding, responsibility, handover and whether the next person has the information they need.
• Follow up: through records, feedback, supervision, team discussion or concern-raising where needed.

Useful phrasing can be simple and specific: "Can I check how the patient would prefer us to explain this before we continue?" It provides a calm, professional prompt to pause, clarify or escalate.

SPF behaviour links

Communication methods and technologies and their appropriate application in support of clinical practice helps dental nurses protect patient dignity, team trust and safe care.