Question

When attempting to communicate with a patient who speaks a different language, the nurse should:

A) Respond promptly and positively to project authority.
B) Never use a family member as an interpreter.
C) Talk to the interpreter to avoid confusing the patient.
D) Provide as much privacy as possible.

Answer 1

When communicating with a patient who speaks a different language, the nurse should avoid using a family member as an interpreter, talk to the interpreter to avoid confusion, and provide privacy for the conversation.

Step-by-step explanation:

When attempting to communicate with a patient who speaks a different language, the nurse should:

1. Never use a family member as an interpreter. While it may seem convenient to rely on a family member who speaks the patient's language, this can lead to inaccuracies in communication and potential ethical issues. It is best to use a professional interpreter.
2. Talk to the interpreter to avoid confusing the patient. The nurse should provide clear instructions and communicate any specific information or concerns to the interpreter to ensure effective communication between the nurse and the patient.
3. Provide as much privacy as possible. Privacy is important for building trust and maintaining confidentiality. The nurse should find a quiet and private space for the conversation to respect the patient's privacy.