Womens Health 2 A translator to discuss sensitive issues

I had a wonderful experience this week, which I thought I would share. Why is there always such angst and fear whenever some people read the words “Requires translator” or “minimal English” in a patient’s notes? Maybe on an obstetric ward, this is even more felt. I had such an experience on Friday.

I was to see an Iraqi woman, who had just undergone a vaginal delivery of a baby boy, for a PT check and post-natal education. When I read those words “requires translator” in the notes, I thought I would still try and see if she could understand a few words, or read some English so I could leave a pamphlet. Upon entering the room, I quickly realised that 1) The woman really understood NO English, 2) the husband who was present would DEFINITELY be required to translate. Now the angst and fear kinda went up. I guess I was a bit worried about how to discuss issues regarding perineal care, and bladder and bowel issues with an Iraqi male. About his wife. Sometimes the problem is that with language barriers (and also even Australians, to be honest), the patients don’t understand terms as “have you opened your bowels” or “close your front passage”. You find yourself having to use “have you done a poo” or “hold onto your wee”. And sometimes even then, they can’t understand. It can feel awkward using such unprofessional jargon and try and maintain your professionalism.

But to my surprise, he appeared to be pretty comfortable (of course, maybe he wasn’t), with trying to translate everything. He came forward with questions himself such as “could you help me get some cold packs for her perineum”. I felt reassured and encouraged by the husband’s manner, and continued with my session with the ease I’d felt with any other patient.

I felt after this, that the husband’s mature and professional demeanour was what put me at ease. I reflected on how the reverse is certainly possible. By this I mean, I have the potential, when walking into a possibly awkward situation, to act in a way to reassure others and ensure smoother and effective communication. As physios we will be asked to address touchy subjects +/- language barriers. Sometimes this will be with people of different cultural background who, we may be inclined to assume, may be uncomfortable discussing these. This attitude can be very generalistic and often we, as inexperienced students/new grads, are the ones who will be uncomfortable. A professional and mature approach helps to make everyone feel more comfortable.