“Language and Vulnerable Populations: Promoting Respect and Empowerment in Healthcare”

To gain further knowledge of what is deemed suitable terminology when referring to the vulnerable population, one must first identify who is considered vulnerable. According to Laranjeira and Querido (2024), the vulnerable population includes persons who are more likely to face social exclusion due to their health, sexual orientation, religion, culture, ethnicity, gender, or disability. Those who have been classified as vulnerable are stigmatized heavily, leading to problems including inequality and disparities in health (Carroll, 2019). Certain language techniques are applicable to all vulnerable populations and to avoid identifying the person by their condition or illness, it is generally advised to adopt the “person-first language” approach (Carroll, 2019). According to Carroll (2019), instead of referring to the person as “schizophrenic”, it would be more appropriate to refer to them as “person with schizophrenia”. Additionally, language like “declined” or “patient is not in agreement with the treatment plan” can be used to convey a more positive message compared to words such as “refused” or “non-compliant” (Carroll, 2019).
Based on my current experience in addiction medicine, all health care providers must be extremely mindful of terminology used and how to appropriately address patients in general. Using terms such as “person with substance use disorder” instead of “addict”, “junkie”, “alcoholic”; “in early remission” or “in sustained remission” instead of “clean”, or “got clean”; and describing their test results as “positive or negative test results” instead of “clean or dirty test/urine” (Alinsky, et al, 2022). It is essential to employ non-judgmental terminology to create a welcome and safe environment. Because language if continually changing, it is vital to keep up with the most recent developments (Carroll, 2019). Another strategy to foster a trusting relationship with your patient, is to learn about their preferred language (Carroll, 2019). This promotes patient satisfaction, trust, and a sense of support, resulting in high-quality care (Carroll, 2019).
References:
Laranjeira, C., & Querido, A. (2024). Mental Health Promotion and Illness Prevention in Vulnerable Populations. Healthcare (2227-9032), 12(5), 554. https://doi-org.wilkes.idm.oclc.org/10.3390/healthcare12050554
Alinsky, R. H., Hadland, S. E., Quigley, J., & Patrick, S. W. (2022). Recommended terminology for substance use disorders in the care of children, adolescents, young adults, and families. Pediatrics, 149(6). https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2022-057529
Carroll, S. M. (2019). Respecting and empowering vulnerable populations: Contemporary terminology. The Journal for Nurse Practitioners, 15(3), 228–231. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nurpra.2018.12.031