cultural competency in nursing

Assume that the client’s daughter will serve as the interpreter for the nurse since she is bilingual

• Indicated

• contra-indicated

• Non essential

Answer explanation

It is best practice to utilize the services of a professional interpreter. In emergency situations, it may be appropriate to ask a family member to interpret. It is important to be sure that the client is comfortable with the family member serving in this capacity.

Ask the client about her preferences regarding her daughter remaining in the room during the conversation

• Indicated

• Contraindicated

• Non-essential

Answer explanation

It is always best practice to ask clients if they would like others to step out of the room during conversations about their health care.

Engage in eye contact and address the client while speaking through the interpreter

• Indicated

• contra-indicated

• Non-essential

Answer explanation

Non-verbal body language is important when communicating with clients through an interpreter. Eye contact and speaking directly to the client rather than the interpreter shows that the nurse is engaging with the client and addressing them rather than the interpreter.

Ask the client about her immigration status

• Indicated

• contra-indicated

• Non-essential

Answer explanation

This question is, culturally biased and inappropriate. Further, asking this question may cause stress and fear for clients who are undocumented.

Ask the client’s daughter if she has any children of her own

• Indicated

• Contra-indicated

• Non-essential

Answer explanation

This question is not necessary or relevant to the nursing care being provided

Encourage the interpreter to take the lead on client teaching because they often work on the unit and are familiar with the client

• Indicated

• contra-indicated

• Non-essential

Answer explanation

When utilizing the services of an interpreter, it is important that the nurse provide the client teaching, and that the interpreter is conveying information that the nurse shares with the client.