An 8-year-old hospitalized due to a bowel obstruction is to be discharged home with a temporary colostomy. The parents' primary language is Vietnamese and their English proficiency is very limited. What is the best approach for the nurse to use when instructing the parents on how to care for the child at home?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Effective teaching can be accomplished only with effective communication, which can be compromised by language barriers, cultural differences, and low health literacy. When an interpreter is necessary, using a translator who is skilled in medical terminology is the best approach to provide accurate information (Option D). Hearing instructions and information in one's primary language decreases the risk of adverse clinical consequences. When a professional medical translator is unavailable, language lines, telephone systems, and remote video interpreting services can be used. Translation by family members and friends should only be used as a last resort and only with the permission of the client, especially in situations where sensitive information needs to be communicated (Option C). Children should not be used as translators except in an emergency situation when there are no other options. (Option A) This client's parents have very limited English language proficiency; this approach will not be effective in providing instructions about the child's care at home. (Option B) Providing written materials without verbal teaching does not give the client (or the client's legal guardian) the chance to ask questions, nor does it give the nurse the opportunity to assess the client's understanding of the given information. Educational objective: When language is a barrier to effective communication and teaching, the nurse should use a trained medical interpreter for translation purposes.

An 8-Year-Old Hospitalized Due to a Bowel Obstruction Is to Be