Between June 2004 and May 2010, at least 232 adverse events at Pennsylvania hospitals were due to language barriers, according to a Pennsylvania Patient Safety Advisory report.
Pennsylvania Patient Safety Authority analyzed 232 reports of language barrier-related events they received from June 2004 through May 2010. The top three problems for patients with limited English proficiency were falls, surgical procedure errors and medication errors.
The report suggested several strategies that could help facilities manage LEP patients:
1. Write a clear plan.
2. Review vital documents for languages most frequently spoken.
3. Use interpreters.
4. Hire and test language proficiency of bilingual staff.
5. Educate staff on cultural awareness.
The report also said that ensuring the care of LEP patients is necessary to retain accreditation from the Joint Commission, which requires the availability of interpreters and the translation of vital documents as of January 2011.
Read the report on language barriers.
Read more coverage on patient safety:
- Virginia's Memorial Hospital Restricts Visitation to Contain Illness
- Room Assignment Linked to Higher Risk of C. Diff Infection
- Contaminated Surfaces, Skin Sites Equally Likely to Cause MRSA Contamination
Pennsylvania Patient Safety Authority analyzed 232 reports of language barrier-related events they received from June 2004 through May 2010. The top three problems for patients with limited English proficiency were falls, surgical procedure errors and medication errors.
The report suggested several strategies that could help facilities manage LEP patients:
1. Write a clear plan.
2. Review vital documents for languages most frequently spoken.
3. Use interpreters.
4. Hire and test language proficiency of bilingual staff.
5. Educate staff on cultural awareness.
The report also said that ensuring the care of LEP patients is necessary to retain accreditation from the Joint Commission, which requires the availability of interpreters and the translation of vital documents as of January 2011.
Read the report on language barriers.
Read more coverage on patient safety:
- Virginia's Memorial Hospital Restricts Visitation to Contain Illness
- Room Assignment Linked to Higher Risk of C. Diff Infection
- Contaminated Surfaces, Skin Sites Equally Likely to Cause MRSA Contamination
