If unsure whether a client's understanding of English is adequate in the situation,
- Ask your client open ended questions that require more than a Yes / No answer
- Ask your client to repeat what you have just said in their own words
Where it is clear that the clients understanding is limited, then a decision should be made about how communication can be improved.
It may be that:
- a hearing aid needs to be installed, a battery changed, the client's usual communication method brought or a signing interpreter called.
- (for hospital patients) sources of information can be obtained from the patient's GP, family, friends, or admission notes.
- A family member or a support person, or friend, or a staff member can interpret if the client chooses and the circumstances are unlikely to affect the patients' ability to understand information. This may be appropriate if the client and family members are not in a distressed, traumatized and emotional state; or the matter is not confidential or very significant. See section relating to when to use and untrained interpreter.
- An interpreter is required
In general, a trained interpreter should be used in situations where a client's ability to speak or hear and understand the English language could restrict both the client's ability to understand information provided and staff understanding the client's needs.
It is important to note that the ability to converse in English does not indicate adequate English comprehension of clinical information. The capacity to speak and understand English when it is acquired as a second language may deteriorate in situations involving illness, shock, pain or stroke.
Failing to use a competent interpreter may result in misdiagnosis and inappropriate care and treatment for patients.
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