When caring for a child and mother from Cambodia, which approach should the nurse take first?

• A. Speak initially with the oldest family member to show respect
• B. Speak with the mother first
• C. Speak with the patient alone without family present
• D. Use medical jargon without an interpreter

Answer: (A)

In Cambodian culture, showing respect to elders and recognizing the family’s role in decisions is an important part of how care is received. Starting the conversation by addressing the oldest family member signals respect for their position and helps establish who has final say in decisions, which often guides how information is shared and how consent is obtained. This approach also helps the nurse gather essential context about the patient and family preferences, language needs, and who should be present during discussions.

Once the elder has been acknowledged, you can proceed to include the mother and child in the conversation, check whether an interpreter is needed, and ensure everyone understands the plan of care. Speaking with the mother alone or with the patient without family present can overlook cultural expectations and trust, while using medical jargon without an interpreter risks miscommunication.