Cross-cultural interview studies using interpreters: systematic literature review.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Research
• Qualitative Research
• Cross-Cultural Studies

Background:

• Growing multiethnic societies necessitate understanding diverse health experiences.
• Interpreters are crucial for cross-cultural interview studies with immigrants.
• Knowledge of interpreter roles enhances nursing research trustworthiness.

Purpose of the Study:

• Review interpreter roles in qualitative cross-cultural interviews.
• Examine trustworthiness determination in these studies.

Main Methods:

• Conducted literature searches (Oct-Nov 2004) across multiple databases.
• Included English-language qualitative interview studies using interpreters.
• Applied the Matrix Method for literature review.

Main Results:

• Interpreter roles were sparsely described in most studies.
• Trustworthiness techniques (prolonged engagement, member checks, triangulation) were common.
• One study did not employ trustworthiness techniques.

Conclusions:

• Limited attention given to methodological issues concerning interpreters.
• Researchers must consider interpreter role, competence, and impact on findings.
• This consideration is essential for establishing study trustworthiness.