Why a trained interpreter
The client speaks only a regional language that the nurse does not speak, and her 12-year-old grandson offers to translate. When the nurse and learner do not share a language, a trained interpreter is arranged whenever possible, and a child should not be used as the interpreter. A child may leave out or change medical content and is burdened with an adult's private health information. Option 3 states both reasons.
The risks of using a child
A child may lack the medical vocabulary to translate terms such as dose, thyroid, or side effect accurately. He may soften or omit information he finds frightening or embarrassing, or add his own interpretations. He is placed in the role of carrying his grandmother's private worries and health details, which is not appropriate for his age. The client herself may hold back questions in front of her grandson. Errors in teaching about a daily medication can lead to unsafe self-care after discharge.
What a trained interpreter provides
A trained medical interpreter conveys the message accurately and completely, keeps information confidential, and does not add or remove content. The nurse speaks directly to the client, uses short sentences, and checks understanding with teach-back through the interpreter. The nurse remains responsible for the teaching; the interpreter is not a substitute teacher.
| Option | Verdict | Reason |
|---|
| Interpreter may also teach, saving time | Wrong | The nurse remains responsible for teaching |
| Data Privacy Act bars relatives | Wrong | The Data Privacy Act of 2012 (RA 10173) allows sharing with her consent |
| Child may omit or alter details | Correct | Accuracy and the burden of private information |
| Adults learn poorly with a younger relative present | Wrong | Family involvement often helps an older learner |
Watch out! The Data Privacy Act option sounds authoritative, but the law does not forbid family members from attending teaching when the client consents. The problem is not the presence of family; it is using a child as the interpreter.
Involving the family
The grandson lives with her and can still attend sessions as a support person, learn the routine with her, and help at home, while the trained interpreter handles the language. Key point! Use a trained interpreter rather than a child; family can still attend and support the learner.