Question

A 54-year-old woman who speaks very limited English attends clinic with her adult son, who offers to translate. You need to discuss starting chemotherapy and the risks and benefits, including infertility and small but serious risks of death. The son appears keen to proceed and answers many questions for his mother. What is the most appropriate approach?

Accepted Answer

Arrange a professional interpreter and conduct the consultation with them present, while encouraging the son to remain for support

Answer

Use the son as the interpreter to respect family dynamics

Answer

Ask closed questions and proceed without detailed discussion to avoid confusion

Answer

Speak only to the son because he understands English and can make decisions for his mother

Answer

Give written English information and ask them to return another day

Practice question