Question

Difficulty: MediumCultural Awareness and Cultural Influences on Health

A nurse in an outpatient oncology clinic is preparing to conduct an initial intake assessment for a newly referred client who speaks limited English. The client is accompanied by their bilingual teenage child, who immediately offers to translate for the nurse. In what order should the nurse perform the following actions? (Arrange from first to last)

  1. 1Acknowledge the adolescent's offer and explain the facility policy requiring a certified medical interpreter.
  2. 2Access the facility's language services to secure a certified medical interpreter.
  3. 3Position the interpreter device (video screen or telephone) slightly behind or next to the client.
  4. 4Direct the assessment questions to the client while maintaining eye contact.
  5. 5Document the client's preferred language and the use of the interpreter service in the health record.

Answer

The correct sequence is to first politely explain the interpreter policy to the family, then secure the certified medical interpreter, position the device appropriately, conduct the interview by speaking directly to the client, and finally document the use of language services.
The correct sequence prioritizes therapeutic communication by first respectfully declining the family member's offer, followed by securing the required professional language resources. Once the interpreter is available, properly positioning the device allows the nurse to maintain direct eye contact with the client, demonstrating respect. Finally, documenting the service ensures legal and facility compliance.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Address the family's offer to translate.
The adolescent understands why they cannot interpret.
Maintains a therapeutic relationship while upholding facility policies regarding privacy, confidentiality, and medical accuracy.
2
Secure a certified medical interpreter.
An approved interpreter is available via phone or video.
Professional interpreters are required to ensure the accurate transmission of complex medical information and to obtain informed consent.
3
Position the interpreter device.
The device is placed near the client.
Proper positioning ensures the client, rather than the technology, remains the center of the clinical encounter.
4
Conduct the health assessment.
The nurse speaks directly to the client.
Maintaining eye contact with the client demonstrates respect, reinforces client autonomy, and aligns with culturally competent care standards.
5
Document the encounter.
The use of the interpreter is recorded in the chart.
Accurate documentation of language services is a legal and regulatory standard for quality care.

Key Concept

Culturally Competent Communication and Interpreter Use
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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