Therapist Development Center Practice Exam 1

When a Mandarin-speaking client needs assistance after witnessing a shooting, what is the social worker’s MOST appropriate action?

1. Approach the receptionist and ask her to translate.

2. Attempt to conduct the interview without assistance.

3. Refer the client to a different social worker.

4. Obtain a professional translator before proceeding.

The correct answer is: Obtain a professional translator before proceeding.

The most appropriate action in this scenario is to obtain a professional translator before proceeding. When working with clients who speak a different language, particularly in a sensitive situation such as witnessing a traumatic event like a shooting, it is crucial to ensure clear and effective communication. A professional translator is trained to accurately convey not only words but also emotions and nuances, which is essential in establishing trust and understanding. Using untrained individuals, such as a receptionist, could lead to miscommunication or misunderstanding, which would be detrimental to the client’s emotional and psychological support. Additionally, attempting to conduct the interview without any assistance poses significant risks of misinterpretation, which can further traumatize the client or impair the quality of the support the social worker can provide. Referring the client to a different social worker may not be the best course of action either, as it could disrupt the continuity of care and support that is vital in a crisis situation. The immediate goal should be to provide assistance in a manner that is respectful and acknowledges the client’s language needs. Thus, securing the services of a professional translator is the best approach to ensure effective and empathetic communication during such a critical time.