Mental Block...need help!

[TurismoDreamin]

I only got a few hours of sleep last night, lol. Here's my (simple) assignment. I'm suppose to teach a client with a language barrier about the medication he is taking using a translator. I have to evaluate the client to make sure he understands what was being told to him. In the next few minutes, i'll be leaving for a statistics class so I hope to get this done now. So far I have only two things:

-assess client's body language

-ask translator to have client repeat instructions for clarification

[CRIMSON]

Written confirmation given in native language.

[Antikigirl, ASN, RN]

Hey, could you tape it so you can review?

I am assuming that the translator is either in person, or via the phone that has a speaker phone like I have.

Assessing clients body language is rather easy...just write down what you see...even if it is just laying there listening. Watch the hands well because many people do use their hands when they talk, especially some cultures more than others. Assess eye movement...many people when listening point their eyes to the right, but while thinking point to the left... Feet movement too...are they wiggling? Maybe an indication of stress or anxiety! It can actually be fun!

Be very specific with the translator on exactly what they need to repeat, and don't make it complicated. Say they are on Digoxin...Instead of having them tell what it does and side effects, have them repeat that it is for their heart and must be taken at the same time EVERY day! That is the most important because frankly...no one is going to remember side effects and what not (and print outs in their language to take home is great for reference if you have that available for them). Antibiotics are especially important to take till done and as prescribed...make sure they repeat that and understand.

Also make sure they know what happened to them. I have had many times where I have come in...and the patient really doesnt' have a clue to what has happened! I get that MD back in with a translator in to explain things when I see this occur! (my docs are cool with translator phones!). Watch that body language when talking about their condition...most times you can see if they are suprised or not or confused!

Good luck on the assignment...I find that European translation is a bit more user friendy for me than others, and I can usually pick up a word or two and tend to know the body language better since it is not to unsimilar from my own. So for me I would strive for that. Frankly I work with mainly Hispanics and I have had experience now with their culture and can get that down pat on females more than males (sometimes the males or so stoic when getting info...but do tend to ask questions wonderfully! Just my experience I don't get their body language as much...).

[TurismoDreamin]

Thanks a bunch! I used all of that an implemented into onto my paper. Off to class now...hopefully I can stay awake for this 3 hour elementary statistics class...thanks again!