TDNet Discover

Background: In multicultural healthcare environments, language barriers between anesthesia providers and patients with limited English proficiency (LEP) in the preoperative period can disrupt several elements of anesthetic care. Language barriers encountered primarily in minority groups constitute a healthcare inequality that can negatively impact patient outcomes. Purpose: This literature review explores the impact of language barriers on the preoperative evaluation, including informed consent, the cost and availability of interpreter services, and the subsequent effect on patient outcomes. Additionally, the literature review aims to review the use of auditory and written aids to enhance communication in the preoperative period. Method: The reviewers performed a systematic literature review using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The literature search occurred through the Cochrane database, Cumulative Index for Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) via the EBSCO database, Medline database, and the search engine Google Scholar. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) checklist facilitated the appraisal of the evidence. A thematic synthesis grouped the results and facilitated the analysis of the data. Discussion: Language barriers preclude effective communication in the preoperative period, leading to decreased satisfaction, increased anxiety, jeopardizing informed consent, and resulting in decreased patient outcomes. The use of interpreter services can address the needs of patients with LEP. However, the cost and availability of professional interpreters present a challenge, encouraging the exploration of cost-effective alternatives. Conclusion: Language barriers during the preoperative period can negatively impact the immediate intraoperative and postoperative periods. Using cost-effective adjuncts can potentially mitigate language barriers.