Communicating with a non-English speaking patient is important in providing appropriate care. Using concise communication promotes effective care for diverse patients by eliminating miscommunication that can lead to inadequate treatment. Effective communication of health information is vital in promoting individuals to take action toward their own health (Giger & Davidhizar, 2013). In the following discussion, I will address the biggest challenges in providing care to non-English speaking patients, what my facility current policy on interpreter service and what can be done to improve care for non-English speaking patients.
The biggest challenge I have encounter while taking care of a non-English speaking patient is attaining an accurate patient assessment. For example, I work on a cardiac floor, so it is imperative to know the duration, location, intensity and rating of the patient’s chest pain because that gives us indications of the type of medication to initiate or the need for immediate cardiac intervention. Occasionally,
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Our patient populations are from diverse cultures and backgrounds. The interpreter services is an outside resource that can be reach via telephone to set up a time and location for language translating needs. There are computers available called “Marty” that has 24 hour live translators available when ever outside translation services is unavailable. In addition, our facility provides language specific handouts to give to our patients as a way to reinforce teaching and give further information. These printouts are just give general overall information and may not specifically address all heath care needs. Once I get report on a patient that is non-English, I immediately setup for the interpreter to come out so I can complete my initial assessment. I feel that, having a way to interpret communication between the nurse and patient leads to higher quality of