<p>A review of systems with focused questions of the form “Ha tendido problemas con…noun phrase” can prompt useful answers. Of course, some answers come fast and furious once the floodgates open. With procedures, phrasing of the form “Voy a … infinitive phrase” makes explanations straight forward without requiring conjugation of verbs.</p>
<p>My Spanish is based on six years of French study plus whatever Spanish I picked up as a student, intern and resident in California. Not surprisingly, in Spanish I can say “I’m going to give you medicine in your IV” and “Please don’t move your head,” but I can’t say “I would like my steak medium rare.” The most useful sources of language instruction have been bilingual nurses and patients who have taken the time to correct and instruct me.</p>
<p>When needed, I use the AT&T telephone translator service for detailed discussions.</p>