REVIEW VERSION — Pending final agency leadership and clinical/compliance approval. Not final clinical guidance; does not replace agency policy, supervision, professional judgment, or legal/regulatory requirements.

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Resource 9 of 9

Do And Do Not Communication Guide

Do And Do Not Communication Guide

Do

  • Ask before assuming.
  • Explain the benefit.
  • Respect client choice.
  • Reduce confusion.
  • Make the next step clear.
  • Help the client prepare.
  • Document the barrier.
  • Follow up.
  • Escalate when needed.
  • Stay within scope.

Do Not

  • Shame.
  • Argue.
  • Threaten.
  • Diagnose outside your role.
  • Give medication advice outside your role.
  • Promise outcomes.
  • Force services.
  • Ignore refusal.
  • Use confusing language.
  • Leave the client without a next step.