Interpretation Modalities Used on Family-Centered Rounds: Perspectives of Spanish-Speaking Families

Limited-English-proficient (LEP) patients and families are at risk for worse hospital outcomes due to impaired communication. Family-centered rounds (FCR) have become the preferred format for information sharing among providers and families at pediatric institutions. However, there are limited data on FCR among LEP families, particularly regarding interpretation type. We sought to examine the relationships between interpretation type and FCR satisfaction and efficacy among Spanish-speaking families, the fastest growing LEP population in pediatric hospitals.

Spanish speakers admitted to general pediatrics units over a period of 16 months were identified on admission. A bilingual research assistant observed FCR and completed an observation tool, including interpreter type. After FCR, the research assistant interviewed families, collecting parent demographics, FCR experience, and interpreter satisfaction. Associations between interpretation type and satisfaction as well as interpretation type and understanding were tested by using χ² analyses.

We studied 124 families over 16 months. Most respondents were patients' mothers (84%), born in Mexico (76%), had grade school education (56%), and spoke limited English (96%). Overall, 83 (73%) reported the interpreter services improved their understanding of their child's medical condition. Interpreter type was significantly associated with family satisfaction with FCR; specifically, an in-person hospital interpreter or video interpreter was associated with complete caregiver satisfaction (P = .005).

Spanish speakers report higher satisfaction with face-to-face interpreters during FCR, including in-person and video, compared with telephonic interpreters. Video interpretation via iPad during FCR may be a valuable and accessible approach to improve communication in the care of hospitalized children.