Your patient reports frequent constipation as a result of prescription medications and asks the nurse for advice about using a dally over-the-counter laxative. The most appropriate response by the nurse is to:

A. While controlling blood pressure is the primary goal of propranolol therapy, it doesn't directly address the medication's potential impact on quality of life.
B. Propranolol, a beta-blocker, is commonly used to treat hypertension. Dizziness is a common side effect of this medication. Therefore, the best indicator of goal success regarding the drug's effect on the patient's quality of life is the absence of injuries related to dizziness. This indicates that the patient is able to manage the side effect and continue their daily activities safely.
C. If the patient experiences adverse drug reactions, it indicates that the medication is not being tolerated well and may need to be adjusted or discontinued.
D. While regular exercise is important for overall health, it doesn't directly address the specific goal of improving the patient's quality of life in relation to the medication.

A. This response is correct because patients have the right to receive clear and accurate information about their medical care. Professional interpreters ensure that patients fully understand their medical conditions, treatment options, and procedures. Using a qualified interpreter respects the patient's right to competent and equitable care.
B. Using a child as an interpreter can cause discomfort or embarrassment for both the child and the older adult. The situation might be emotionally charged, and the presence of a child in a professional medical setting could make the older adult feel uncomfortable or pressured.
C. Privacy laws, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in the U.S., emphasize the importance of maintaining patient confidentiality. While privacy laws primarily address the protection of patient information, they also suggest that sensitive discussions, such as those about health conditions and treatments, should be handled by trained professionals to ensure privacy and confidentiality are upheld. A child might not be able to maintain the same level of confidentiality as a professional interpreter.
D. Children, especially minors, may lack the maturity, language proficiency, and medical vocabulary needed to accurately and effectively translate complex medical information. Miscommunication can
lead to misunderstandings about the patient’s condition and treatment, potentially compromising care.
E. This response is not the most valid in this context. While it might be true that using an untrained interpreter could potentially take longer, the primary concerns are about accuracy, professionalism, and maintaining patient rights and confidentiality. The use of a professional interpreter ensures that communication is clear and precise, which is essential for effective medical care.