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The spirit catches you and you fall down

I agree with everyone's comments that the lack of an interpreter is completely ridiculous. In this case, it isn't just a problem of consent, though. The lack of understanding also majorly impacted patient care, and seemingly, the whole reason to push for consent is to be able to provide the patient with the proper care.

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Comments (2)

Jenny Ly:

Unfortunately, sometimes I feel that providers view the consent process as a way to cover themselves legally. When I was doing translating work, I observed that the providers were more concerned with if I had obtained the patient’s signature and not if the patient had understood what was told to them or if they had any questions.

Po Lai Yau:

Agree. I had a similar experience doing translation for a relative who was in ICU. The medical coordinator was more concerned about getting the patient’s signature so they could proceed with the blood transfusion. They didn’t care if the patient truly understood the risks involved. They even tried making him sign the papers before I finished explaining the procedures.

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