Translating Pediatric Hospital Interpreters' Feedback From Difficult Conversations into Improved Communication

Area of Science:

• Medical communication
• Palliative care
• Pediatric healthcare

Background:

• Medical interpreters are essential for effective communication with pediatric patients and families during sensitive discussions.
• Their role is crucial in ensuring patient and family participation in challenging conversations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To gather suggestions from medical interpreters on integrating them effectively into end-of-life conversations within pediatric palliative care.
• To identify challenges and best practices from the interpreters' perspective.

Main Methods:

• A pilot study involving 11 pediatric hospital-based medical interpreters.
• Data collection through a 12-item survey followed by a focus group to explore themes.

Main Results:

• Interpreters face challenges in translating cultural contexts, managing mixed messages, and navigating emotional intensity.
• Despite challenges, 82% of interpreters are willing to interpret "bad news" conversations.
• Interpreters identified meaningful aspects of their role, including relationship-building and family support.
• Seven thematic suggestions for improved communication were proposed: content review, message clarity, advocacy, cultural understanding, communication dynamics, professionalism, and emotional support.

Conclusions:

• Medical interpreters offer unique expertise in cultural dynamics and message transmission.
• Their insights are vital for enhancing communication between healthcare teams and families in pediatric palliative care.
• Implementing interpreter suggestions can improve the quality of end-of-life discussions.