33. Health visitors' experiences of providing interpretation for migrant workers - an action research study (74)

Natasha Thom, Lecturer, School of Nursing, Nottingham University, Boston, Lincs, United Kingdom
natasha.thom@nottingham.ac.uk

Abstract:

This paper reports qualitative interview findings from 13 health visitors, to ascertain their experiences of providing interpretation for migrant workers. Health visitors were interviewed during October 2007. The findings are part of an action research study. The aims are to improve access to health visiting for migrant workers by introducing and evaluating a telephone interpreter service. Differences in the languages spoken by clients and providers of care make clear, accurate communication impossible. This may lead to miscommunication and inappropriate treatment (Biscoff etal 2003). An interpreting service is one way of improving the language barrier (Enslien 2002, Flores 2005). From the interviews in this study, thematic analysis identified the following issues. Poor quality care, visual communication techniques, non verbal communication, written communication, use of formal interpreters, use of informal interpreters and perceptions of the potential use of a telephone interpreting service. Prior to the intervention, health visitors predominantly relied on using friends or family members as interpreters and supplemented the communication with visual aids. Accuracy of the communication was assessed by observing a clients body language and facial expressions. Staff identified a limited service with few resources available. The findings of the interviews support the need for interpreting services in order to address the issues associated with language barriers. This study is part of my Doctorate in Health Sciences.

Biography:

I trained as a nurse in 1991 and spent 6 years within clinical nursing specializing in chest medicine and pulmonary rehabilitation. After achieving my bachelor degree in 1997 I branched out to a number of research posts within primary care. The posts included, evaluating telemedicine in A&E departments, and assessing health and social needs of the older person. Since 2001, I have been in post as a lecturer in the school of nursing at University of Nottingham. My main roles include teaching and designing evidence based practice modules and migrant worker health issues. I am involved with ensuring representation of minority groups within the University User and Carer strategy. My research interests include migrant worker health and practice improvements initiatives. I am currently studying for a doctorate in health science with a view to complete by September 2008.