BBC World Service | Learning English

Getting clarification from a doctor

In this programme, we find out about the type of questions we can ask to make sure we understand what the doctor is telling us.

When you've listened to the programme, don't forget to practise what you've learned with the quiz below!

Listen - realmedia Download - mp3 (1.7 MB) Script (pdf - 22k)

Useful vocabulary for visits to the doctor

dosage/dose	the amount of a drug or medicine that should be taken
tablets	pills containing a certain amount of medicine that should be taken
capsules	small containers which you swallow as they contain a certain amount of medicine that should be taken
eye drops	medicine in a liquid form that is used in the eyes
ear drops	medicine in a liquid form that is used in the ears
lozenges	tablets which are sucked or dissolved on the tongue to help heal a sore throat
ointment (uncountable noun)	a smooth, thick type of cream which is rubbed into the skin or a wound to help it heal
an inhaler	a device that contains medicine which should be breathed in; the dosage is often measured in puffs
syrup (uncountable noun)	medicine in a liquid form that's usually sticky and tastes sweet

Useful questions for visits to the doctor

How many ... (countable)	should I take?
How much ... (uncountable)	should I take? should I apply / use?
How often ... How long ...	should I take ...	it? them?
When ...	should I apply / use ...	it?

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNT?

READING ACTIVITY
Here are some instructions that you might get from the doctor. Choose the best question to ask to make sure you have understood the doctor. Click 'next' to move through the quiz.

Don't have flash?
You can also download a printable version of this activity.

Download Activity (pdf -17k)