A female patient does not speak English well, and the nurse needs to choose an interpreter. Which of the following would be the most appropriate choice?

A) Trained interpreter
B) Male family member
C) Female family member
D) Volunteer college student from the foreign language studies department

Whenever possible, the nurse should use a trained interpreter. This person knows interpreting techniques, has a health care background, and understands patients' rights. A trained interpreter is also knowledgeable about cultural beliefs and health practices. He or she can help you bridge the cultural gap and advise you concerning the cultural appropriateness of your recommendations. Although it is tempting to ask ad hoc interpreters such as a male or female family member, or volunteer college student from the foreign language studies department, there are several disadvantages to that. Using an ad hoc interpreter can violate the patient's confidentiality and they often are not familiar with medical terminology, hospital or clinical procedures, or medical ethics. Having a relative interpret can add stress to an already stressful situation and may disrupt family relationships. In addition, in some cultures full disclosures of a diagnosis such as cancer are taboo, so an ad hoc interpreter may edit the diagnosis or not fully disclose the information.