Which scenario would contribute to health disparities?

• A. An English-speaking nurse conducts an admission interview of a Puerto Rican immigrant.
• B. A bilingual nurse conducts an admission interview of a Puerto Rican immigrant.
• C. An English-speaking nurse interviews a non-immigrant.
• D. A nurse uses a translator for non-English speakers.

Answer: (A)

Language differences between patient and clinician can create health disparities when they aren’t addressed. An English-only interview with a Puerto Rican immigrant can lead to incomplete histories, misunderstood symptoms, and instructions, plus less trust and engagement in care, all of which can worsen outcomes and equity. When the nurse can communicate in the patient’s language or when a translator is used, understanding improves, safety increases, and care becomes more equitable. The other scenarios lessen language barriers or rely on a translator, which helps reduce disparities.