Chandrika Divi|Richard G. Koss|Stephen Schmaltz|Jerod M. Loeb
Language proficiency and adverse events in US hospitals: a pilot study
Joint Commission|Joint Commission|Joint Commission|Joint Commission
examine differences characteristics adverse events english speaking patients patients limited english proficiency us hospitalssix joint commission accredited hospitals usaadverse event data english speaking patients patients limited english proficiency collected six hospitals 7 months 2005 classified using national quality forum endorsed patient safety event taxonomyabout 491 limited english proficient patient adverse events involved physical harm whereas 295 adverse events patients speak english resulted physical harm adverse events resulting physical harm 468 limited english proficient patient adverse events level harm ranging moderate temporary harm death compared 244 english speaking patient adverse events adverse events occurred limited english proficient patients also likely result communication errors 524 adverse events english speaking patients 359language barriers appear increase risks patient safety important patients language barriers ready access competent language services providers need collect reliable language data patient point entry document language services provided patientprovider encounter