An English-speaking nurse gave a non-English-speaking Asian patient instructions about preparing an abdominal surgical site. The nurse showed the patient how the bottle of povidone-iodine was to be used in cleansing the area
The patient smiled and nodded throughout the instructions. The patient did not respond when asked if he had any questions. When the nurse left the room, the patient promptly drank the bottle of povidone-iodine. Which action would be most effective in preventing this error?
a.
Giving the patient written instructions in his language
b.
Using a medical interpreter to give the preoperative instructions
c.
Having the patient sign a statement that he understood the instructions
d.
Using illustrations to show the patient the procedure
ANS: B
A
The patient may not be able to read in his language but may not indicate that to the nurse.
B
The use of the interpreter assures that the patient has received the correct information in a manner he can understand.
C
Having the patient sign a statement does not indicate that he understood. He may sign because he feels that this is expected.
D
Although illustrations may help, the use of an interpreter is still the best action to ensure understanding.
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