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Ethics & Law · single question

When treating a patient with limited English proficiency, what is considered best practice for communication?

  1. Rely on an untrained family member as translator only
  2. Use a qualified medical interpreter (ideally certified/legally recognized) to ensure accurate communication and valid informed consent
  3. Use gestures only, without any interpreter
  4. Postpone all non-emergency care indefinitely until the patient learns English
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Correct answer: B. Use a qualified medical interpreter (ideally certified/legally recognized) to ensure accurate communication and valid informed consent

Using a qualified, trained medical interpreter (rather than an untrained family member, who may filter, mistranslate, or feel uncomfortable conveying sensitive medical information) helps ensure accurate communication and legally valid informed consent — many practices are required to provide language access services.

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