Question

Mrs. Perez, 32 years of age, is a Hispanic patient who is admitted for early stage cancer of the uterus. The surgeon stated that in order to treat Mrs. Perez’s cancer successfully, the uterus will need to be removed surgically through a procedure called a simple hysterectomy leaving the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and vagina. The surgeon requests that the nurse make arrangements for an interpreter, so they can both use the interpreter’s services. The patient only speaks Spanish, but her mother and one of the patient’s sisters are bilingual. They are currently visiting the patient. Her husband is also visiting and he only speaks Spanish. The patient’s two children are with her sister Maria. The family stated they are devout Catholics and request to see a priest while in the hospital. Today is Ash Wednesday. (Learning Objective 4) Which interpreter is the most appropriate choice to communicate with Mrs. Perez and why? After critically analyzing the cultural influences, what nursing actions are appropriate for the patient?

Answer 1

In the given case, the patient's mother who is bilingual (assuming she can speak Spanish and English) will be the best person to communicate. As she is women and her mother, Mrs.Perez will have complete trust in her and will believe whatever is communicated to her. As the family of Mrs. Perez is devout Catholic, she seeks spiritual help to cope with her present situation.

As she is Hispanic, the nurse should arrange for Spanish interpreter (preferably women) who can communicate to her about her treatment plans and regimen. The other important cultural concern is that it's an Ash Wednesday which is an important day for Christians based on our religious belief. Therefore the nurse should also coordinate to arrange for a priest who can visit her in the hospital and support her spiritually and emotionally. The nurse should also consider the language barrier and should be patient and compassionate in her attitude while providing care to the patient. The nurse should also avoid making unnecessary comments in front of Mrs.Perez as it can be misunderstood by her. Even though Mrs.Perez is of a varied culture, she carefully planned should meet all her needs, should respect her values, beliefs, and preferences. Adequate time should be allowed to her to make decisions and her family members should be allowed to participate in her treatment plan.