Language
barriers can cause major complications, especially in a clinical setting where
treating ailments is contingent upon good communication.
Language Barriers are a part of our life
It is easy to
forget that we’re not only living in a multinational, but a multilingual world
too. There are thousands of languages spoken around the globe.
The main
reason for this problem is that native speakers might not realize the language
they are using is not the native language of the person whom they are speaking
to. This obviously causes tremendous language barriers that need to be
overwritten in order to properly treat the patient.
No one can
learn all the languages. Let’s discuss areas which may help you cover the gap
when medically treating an individual of another language.
Importance of overcoming language barriers in a
healthcare department
Communicating
with a patient who is not a native English speaker or who doesn’t know English
at all, isn’t always easy, but it’s mandatory. If you fail to do so then it may
be detrimental from both a clinical and legal setting.
Research says
approximately 47 million American inhabitants; speak a foreign language at
home. So it is essential to overcome this problem, especially when dealing with
a person’s health.
Some troubles caused due to a Language barrier in
hospitals
You must have
heard of this scenario in your medical career. Once an unconscious patient’s
girlfriend failed to relate the actual problem to the paramedics. She used the
word “intoxicado”. Due to which, they presumed that the patient a drug
overdose. In actuality, the patient was nauseated. They treated the overdose,
but two clots formed in his brain due to the nausea left untreated. Resulting
in which the patient became quadriplegic. The paramedics had to award him a $71
million settlement, for the mistake that they had committed.
Let’s discuss
how to avoid such tragic conditions.
Using an interpreter
An interpreter
is the right choice to prevent such tragedies. But sometimes trouble occurs due
to interpreters too. They might not understand some medical terms, or can’t
relate to the patient. In such cases, an interpreter who has knowledge of
medical terms is an ideal choice.
There might be
some staff members who are bilingual; you may get their help to interpret. But
make sure to keep giving them up to date on medical terminologies. This will
help you get prevent catastrophe with a patient of a foreign language.
Try to
convince authorities to arrange an interpreter for such situations. There are
several agencies that provide online interpreters, and you may benefit in this
regard.
In an
emergency, while there is no interpreter available, and the patient or their
relative have some knowledge of English, and then you may relate the situation
to them by using the following techniques.
Speak slowly and clearly
Slow down your
speech and use clear words with a perfect accent. Don’t rush through the
interaction, even if you’re pressed for time.
Ask for clarification
Your
profession doesn’t allow you to rely on guesses. If you haven’t understood the
patient, ask them politely for clarification. Relying on probabilities may
result in harmful situations.
Repetition
If you’re relaying
something or listening to a patient, try to repeat everything in order to make
sure that the message is clear.
Avoid Idioms
Using idioms
and phrases in your regular conversations is fine, but try to avoid their use
while you’re having a discussion with patients who doesn’t speak English, as
subtleties of the language will likely be lost on them.
Jargon with
staff members may help you in a way, but using it with patients is a foolish.
Try to avoid jargon and if you’ve used it, explain its meaning.
Following the
aforementioned steps will help you handle patients of other languages, as
communication is key in treating people safely and properly.
Related: International Nurses
Association
Comments
Post a Comment