Miguel

Case Description: Infant presenting with severe gastrointestinal problems


Miguel is a 9-month old infant brought in by his mother, who speaks only Spanish, and his aunt, who speaks some English. This case explores the impact of language barriers on patient care. There are two videos which show contrasting interviews with and without an interpreter revealing the importance of effective communication. Watch the links below to see the interview process.

This case also explores the differences between cultures as far as treatment. Not only do language barriers have an impact on patient care, but so does culture.

Cultural Competency
This case deals with the following:
 * Learning about your patients' cultures.
 * Using interpreter services appropriately.
 * Practicing culturally sensitive interpersonal dynamic.
 * Accommodating your patient's health beliefs.

Links to Videos
Interview without interpreter: http://video.vcu.edu/asxgen/sommedia/cc/wointerp.wmv

Interview with interpreter: http://video.vcu.edu/asxgen/sommedia/cc/winterp.wmv

Diagnostic plan: http://video.vcu.edu/asxgen/sommedia/cc/diagpln.wmv

Links to Discussion

 * Antibiotic Resistance
 * Communication
 * Cultural Competency
 * Cultural Conflict
 * Diversity
 * Interpreters
 * Language Barriers
 * Paternalism in Medicine

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