Table 3 Categories of language that implicitily strengthens plain information
From: Implicit expression of uncertainty – suggestion of an empirically derived framework
Main category | Subcategory + Language | Example |
|---|---|---|
A) Assertive | a) Instruction (direct/indirect) • look at this • you still need to do | “You would have to order liver enzymes.” |
b) Independent • did something independently • did not discuss something [with the attending] beforehand | “I independently ordered a HR-CT.” | |
c) Inevitable • in any case • anyway | “Keep [the patient in hospital] in any case, I would say.” | |
B) Adequate | a) Coherent • logically/naturally/of course • in principle • straight from the textbook | “Naturally, the rheumatoid factor was elevated.” |
b) Unambiguous • clear/clearly • really • definitely • distinctly | “CRP was 123, hence, a definite sign of infection”. | |
c) Perceptible • recognizable • have seen • visible | “[Free peritoneal air] was very visible for me on the X-ray.” | |
C) Focused | a) Absolute • never • nothing at all • quite • always | “There was absolutely nothing in the dip stick.” |
b) Simple • simply • just like that | “He can simply have a systemic rheumatoid disease.” | |
c) Prioritized • first of all / at first • rather • most likely • at least • very important • primarily • the same day • already | “First of all, here are the cANCAs we ordered.” | |
D) Reliable | a) Medical expert • according to […] • after consultation with […] | “According to [my] consultation with the supervisor we should stop searching for a source of infection.” |
b) Non-medical but insistent expert • […] said several times | “The patient said several time that she tends to fall.” | |
c) Evidenced • […] confirmed • […] refuted | “Diverticulitis was confirmed by the radiology result.” |