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  • Title: Study: To minimize errors, rely on interpreters when caring for LEP patients in the ED.
    Journal: ED Manag; 2012 Aug; 24(8):89-92. PubMed ID: 22946276.
    Abstract:
    A new study strongly suggests that it is important for EDs to rely on professional interpreters, rather than ad hoc interpreters or no interpreters at all, when caring for patients with limited English proficiency (LEP). The researchers examined health care encounters involving LEP patients at two pediatric EDs, and found that the encounters associated with professional interpreters were associated with far fewer errors of potential clinical consequence than the encounters associated with ad hoc interpreters or no interpreters. Experts say the most important first step in minimizing language-based errors is to identify patients with LEP when they present for care. Professional interpreters are defined as having at least 100 hours of training. Researchers say that when evaluating interpreters, professional training is more valuable in terms of minimizing errors than experience on the job. Make sure that interpreters are available to LEP patients throughout the course of their ED visit as well as during any follow-up visits or telephone calls.
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