A 36-week infant is admitted to the NICU for hypoglycemia. The best method to assist a Spanish-speaking mother in making informed decisions is to:

• A. Use a certified language interpreter
• B. Use a family member as translator
• C. Rely on written materials in English only
• D. Speak louder and slower

Answer: (A)

Communicating with a mother who speaks Spanish in the NICU requires accurate, culturally appropriate language support to ensure informed decisions. A certified language interpreter provides professional translation of medical information, clarifies complex terms, and helps confirm that the mother truly understands the risks, benefits, and alternatives before consenting to care for her infant. Using a family member as translator can introduce inaccuracies, bias, and breaches of confidentiality, and may miss essential medical details. Written materials in English only exclude her from understanding, and speaking louder or slower does not resolve comprehension and can be disrespectful. Professional interpreters support ethical and legal language access, improve understanding, and promote safer, patient-centered care.