What should a social worker do when faced with a language barrier during the informed consent process?

When a social worker encounters a language barrier during the informed consent process, it is essential to ensure that the client fully understands the information being conveyed. Arranging for a professional interpreter is the best course of action because it allows for clear and accurate communication, ensuring that the client comprehends the complexities of the information regarding their rights, the services being offered, and any potential risks or benefits involved.

Using a professional interpreter ensures that the translation maintains the nuances and specific terminology relevant to the informed consent process, which is crucial for safeguarding the client's autonomy and ensuring ethical practice. This step also upholds the legal and ethical standards required in social work, protecting both the client and the practitioner from potential misunderstandings or misrepresentations of critical information.

The other options compromise the quality of informed consent. Continuing without proper interpretation would risk misunderstanding, while using a colleague may lead to inaccuracies and could breach confidentiality or create conflicts of interest. Removing the necessity for consent entirely undermines the principle of informed consent, disregarding the client's rights to make informed decisions about their care. Thus, engaging a professional interpreter is the appropriate and ethically responsible approach in this scenario.