Question

A 42-year-old Somalian woman is admitted in active labor with her 8th child. She is accompanied by her husband and 2 adult males, later identified as her stepsons. Because the patient does not speak English well, she is offered an interpreter on admission and during the consent process. With all 4 individuals in the room, she declines and asks that her husband and/or his sons can interpret for her. Later that day, when just the nurse is in the room, the patient asks about getting her tubes tied and other forms of birth control. The nurse finds the patient has limited understanding, most likely due to the language barrier so calls for an interpreter. The interpreter arrives at the same time as one of the stepsons. The nurse asks the patient if she wants the son to leave and patient indicates no. Through the interpreter, the nurse begins discussion about birth control. After conversation between the stepson and the patient, the stepson informs the nurse that they have no interest in birth control and were not appreciative of the interference in their culture. The RN notifies her nurse manager who contacts administration.

T or F The use of family members as medical translators is encouraged to avoid delays in providing medical care.

Answer 1

Answer: It is true that the use of family members as medical translator is encouraged to avoid delays in providing medical care. Because due to the multi culture and diversity in culture it is sometimes become difficult to understand other languages. So the best way of conversation with the patient is the mediator that is his family members. Atleast one of them knows English language because it the most common language among all.

So at this situation it was right to take the decision on the basis of the conversation of family. To provide better treatment and facilities, the healthcare professionals should not be late in providing specific care.