CNA Certification (Written Exam)Communication and Psychosocial NeedsHard
A resident who is deaf and communicates using American Sign Language (ASL) is scheduled for a care conference to discuss sensitive health information. A family member offers to interpret for the resident. What is the best action for the nurse aide's facility to take?
- AAccept the family member's offer to interpret to save time
- BWrite all information down for the resident instead of using an interpreter
- CRequest a qualified medical interpreter to ensure accuracy and confidentiality
- DSpeak louder and slower so the resident can read lips more easily
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Request a qualified medical interpreter to ensure accuracy and confidentiality
Using a qualified medical interpreter ensures accurate, unbiased communication and protects the resident's confidentiality, which family members may compromise due to emotional involvement or lack of medical vocabulary. This is especially important for sensitive health discussions.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Family interpreters may unintentionally alter information or breach confidentiality.
- B. Writing information down does not accommodate a resident whose primary language is ASL, not written text.
- D. Speaking louder does not help a deaf resident and does not guarantee lip-reading accuracy for complex information.
Qualified Interpreter Use
Facilities should use trained medical interpreters rather than family members for sensitive health communications with deaf or non-English-speaking residents.
- Family interpreters may compromise accuracy or confidentiality
- ASL is a distinct language, not simply English translated
- Qualified interpreters protect resident rights and understanding
Memory trick: Leave translating to the pros — family isn't a substitute for a trained interpreter.