For a deaf patient, which communication approach is most appropriate?

• A. Use the hospital-approved interpreter program
• B. Use the patient's family members to communicate
• C. Ask the patient to read questions off the computer screen
• D. Seek help from any staff member currently working

Answer: (A)

Clear, accurate, and confidential communication with a deaf patient is best achieved by using the hospital-approved interpreter program. This provides trained interpreters who understand medical terminology and preserve privacy, ensuring the patient fully understands diagnoses, treatments, and consent. Relying on family members can lead to gaps in translation, bias, or breaches of confidentiality. Asking the patient to read questions off a computer screen assumes literacy and may still miss nonverbal cues or nuances. Asking any staff member for help is unreliable for accuracy and privacy. When possible, the interpreter program should be engaged to facilitate the conversation.