JBL EMT Practice Exam

When communicating with a non-English speaking patient, you should:

1. ask for a family member or bystander who can interpret

2. make the patient understand the critical nature of the situation

3. use basic English phrases to communicate

4. write down questions and directions

The correct answer is: ask for a family member or bystander who can interpret

When communicating with a non-English speaking patient, it is important to ensure accurate and clear communication to provide effective care. In this scenario, asking for a family member or bystander who can interpret is the correct choice because they can help bridge the language barrier and facilitate a more accurate exchange of information between the patient and the healthcare provider. This approach can help ensure that the patient's needs are understood and addressed appropriately, improving the overall quality of care provided to the patient. Options B, C, and D are not the best choices in this situation. While making the patient understand the critical nature of the situation is important, it may not be possible if there is a language barrier. Using basic English phrases may not be sufficient for conveying complex medical information, and writing down questions and directions may be challenging if the patient is unable to read or understand English. Therefore, option A is the most appropriate and effective way to communicate with a non-English speaking patient in this context.