Implementing a Language Interpretation Bundle in the ICU to Decrease Language Barriers for Patients with Limited English Proficiency
Abstract
Purpose: This Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project addressed the language barriers that patients with limited English proficiency (LEP) faced due to lack of accessibility to interpretation services and an inadequate use of interpretation devices. This quality improvement (QI) project consisted of a language interpretation bundle to decrease language barriers for LEP patients.
Background: Language barriers lead to poor patient satisfaction, decreased medication compliance, and more frequent adverse events throughout the hospital stay. Interpretation services can reduce hospital readmission rates and decrease patients’ length of hospital stay. Research also shows that ad hoc interpreters make more clinically significant errors than professional interpreters.
Methodology: This project implemented a “language interpretation bundle” that guided nurses and providers on how to better communicate with LEP patients. Steps of the bundle included increasing the accessibility of interpretation devices and adopting different modalities for language interpretation, educating about the importance of interpretation, and using the electronic health record to provide language appropriate education.
Results: There was an increase in nurse and provider satisfaction data with interpretation devices and an increase in total usage time of interpretation devices. There was only a mild increase in usage of interpreters to obtain consents for LEP patients.
Implications: Adequate use of interpreters for LEP patients is of vital importance because adequate interpretation will lead to better patient outcomes, less clinically significant mistakes, and increased patient satisfaction. This language interpretation bundle can easily be replicated in other hospital settings to continue to promote health equality for LEP patients.