Interprofessional Education (IPE) Day 2025 - Cases

Patient
Mr. Carlos Ramirez, 60-year-old male

Clinical Scenario

Mr. Ramirez arrives at a primary care clinic after a recent fall at home. He speaks only Spanish, and his adult daughter offers to interpret for him during the visit. The clinic does not have a professional interpreter immediately available. The team is concerned that the daughter may omit or alter important health details based on cultural or family dynamics.

Ethical Dilemma

Should the team proceed with using the daughter as an interpreter to avoid delaying care, or wait for a professional interpreter?

Discussion Questions

1. How might this affect informed consent, accuracy, and patient autonomy?
2. How can each profession contribute to ensuring effective and ethical communication?

Submit Your Team's Response