This stylebook represents the combined efforts of Lily Altavena, Jason Axelrod, Richard J. Dalton, Jr., Jake Geller, Kristin Gilger, Lauren Loftus and Theresa Poulson, all associated with the National [..]

It is acceptable to describe a person as “someone who uses a wheelchair,” followed by an explanation of why the equipment is required. Avoid “confined to a wheelchair” or “wheelchair-bound” as these t [..]

It is preferable to use precise medical terminology or, if that is not possible, terms such as comatose or non-responsive. If using the term vegetative state, use people-first language, such as “a per [..]

The stylebook allows the use of vegetative state, describing it as “a condition in which the eyes are open and can move, and the patient has periods of sleep and periods of wakefulness, but remains un [..]

Treatment is an acceptable term for medical interventions, and treatment center is acceptable for the establishment in which such practices take place. Use treatment center in place of rehab or detox [..]

Use Tourette syndrome, with no possessive or capitalization of syndrome. Refer to someone as having Tourette syndrome only if the information is relevant* to the story and if the person has been forma [..]

 Not addressed

Background: Tetraplegia, used interchangeably with quadriplegia, is defined as the paralysis of all four limbs as well as the torso. It often is caused by a spinal cord or brain injury and is characte [..]

 Use people-first language, such as “a person with tetraplegia” rather than tetraplegic, since this implies that the condition defines them. See also quadriplegia.

The word stuttering is preferred over stammering. Do not refer to an individual as a stutterer. Rather, use people-first language, such as “a person who stutters.” Refer to stuttering only if it is re [..]