An unidentified patient was injured in a hit-and-run accident and was

An unidentified patient was injured in a hit-and-run accident and was conscious. When asked how he felt, the patient looked very confused and responded in a language the nurse did not recognize. Which of the following actions should the nurse take next?

a. Look closely at the person, try to determine the patient’s ethnic background, and then seek someone fluent in his language
b. Report the language barrier to administration, and let them handle the problem
c. Tell the unit supervisor so various translators can be brought to the floor until the language is recognized and communication can be established
d. Use gestures and pantomime until the nurse is able to determine what language the patient is speaking

ESSAYBID ANSWER

ANS: D
The nurse can report the problem and request a translator, but in the meantime the nurse should pantomime words and simple actions while verbalizing them until communication can be established using a translator from his culture. Just looking at a patient will not allow you to assume his or her ethnic background.