In which situation would a medical assistant need to utilize a translator?

A medical assistant would need to utilize a translator when a patient speaks a different language to ensure effective communication. This situation is crucial because clear communication is essential in a healthcare setting to gather accurate medical history, explain procedures, and understand patient concerns. If the patient is not proficient in the language spoken by the healthcare provider, it can lead to misunderstandings, misdiagnoses, and inadequate treatment.

In contrast, when a patient is hard of hearing, other techniques, such as writing down information or using sign language, might be more effective than using a translator. Documenting patient information is typically done by the medical assistant without the need for translation, as it involves writing in the primary language used in the practice. Interpreting lab results involves analyzing data rather than translating spoken language, which would not require a translator either. Thus, utilizing a translator is specifically necessary in the context of language barriers to facilitate dialogue and understanding between the healthcare provider and the patient.