Clinical Nurse Leader Practice Exam

For a Korean patient with limited English speaking skills, which action demonstrates culturally competent care?

1. Find a nurse who speaks some Korean

2. Transfer the patient to a unit with a Korean-speaking secretary

3. Contact the patient's family for assistance in communication

4. Obtain a Korean translator

The correct answer is: Obtain a Korean translator

Obtaining a Korean translator is an action that clearly demonstrates culturally competent care. This approach ensures that the patient receives accurate information and can communicate effectively with the healthcare team. A professional translator can bridge the language gap, providing precise translations that enhance understanding of the patient's medical needs, treatment options, and care instructions. This not only respects the patient’s language preference but also promotes better health outcomes by reducing the risk of miscommunication. While finding a nurse who speaks some Korean can help facilitate communication, the level of fluency may not be sufficient for complex medical discussions. Transferring the patient to a unit with a Korean-speaking secretary might provide some support, but it may not address all communication needs or ensure comprehensive understanding. Contacting the patient’s family can be beneficial but might not be appropriate if family dynamics are strained or if the patient prefers not to involve them. Professional interpretation through a translator remains the gold standard in ensuring equitable access to healthcare services.