A Skopos Theory Guided Comparative Analysis of Traditional and Symbol Based Discharge Prescriptions for Adult Illiterate Patients at Bashir Institute, Islamabad

Abstract

This study investigates the understanding of discharge prescriptions among adult illiterate patients at Bashir Institute of Health Sciences in Islamabad, focusing on how traditional handwritten and symbol-based prescriptions affect patient comprehension and medication adherence. Guided by Skopos Theory, which frames communication according to its intended purpose, the study examines differences in clarity, usability, and effectiveness of prescription formats and how they influence patient confidence and adherence to treatment. In traditional prescriptions, patients often struggle with abbreviations, medical terms, and dosage instructions, leading to confusion and potential medication errors. In contrast, symbol-based prescriptions use simple visual cues, numbers, and sequencing icons to improve comprehension and make instructions easier to follow. The study finds that symbol-based prescriptions enhance understanding and reduce patient anxiety while supporting healthcare staff in delivering instructions more efficiently. These findings highlight the important role of purpose-driven, multimodal communication in improving patient safety and adherence. This research contributes to a better understanding of how symbols and visual aids can support adult illiterate patients, offering insights for developing more effective patient-centred communication strategies in hospitals.