Bilingual/ Multilingual nurses

MMARN, BSN, RN · Nov 13, 2009

For me, it's been a very big advantage. I am truly able to help patients and doctors when each has no idea what the other is saying! I love being able to put my patients at ease when explaining a particular procedure that they have questions about. It's a great skill to have.

RN BSN 2009 · Nov 13, 2009

It's a really nice skill to have, but understand you won't get paid any better than anyone else, unless the position explicitly states they are looking for someone bilingual only.

Editorial Team / Admin · Nov 13, 2009

It is an advantage and very area dependent.

I have a very large deaf community and am fluent in American Sign Language. Also, speak Tsalagi (although haven't used this in a few years and am losing this ability...). Am semi-fluent in a couple other languages, but I would not consider myself expert enough to effectively communicate.

And, as the poster above pointed out, unless you have a position where a second/third language is necessary, doubtful you'd appreciate pay that reflected this ability(s). I know that I did not...

Crux1024 · Nov 13, 2009

I find it helpful if only to ease my coworkers plight before they have to drag the Cyraphone out of the closet. Lol.

RNperdiem, RN · Nov 13, 2009

Knowledge is never wasted.

Even a very basic level of language can be useful.

I still use the translators for the important things like surgical consents.

Many patients speak english too. If the patient does not, a younger English speaking relative is often nearby.

classicdame, MSN, EdD · Nov 13, 2009

remember that HIPAA may prevent you from serving as interpreter for a patient that is not your assignment. Unless you have a right to know you could be liable. Also, Certified Licensed Medical Interpreters limit liability, especially when consents are involved. They record their conversations so you have documentation if an issue arises.

Trauma Columnist · Nov 13, 2009

Using a family member isn't really a good idea anymore either. Certified med transcriptionist is the best way.

Long Term Care Columnist / Guide · Nov 13, 2009

I've found that the Spanish I grew up with is very helpful, even in the nursing home where I work. We have a resident from Puerto Rico who never learned English, and while we do have some issues with dialects due the fact that I speak Mexican Spanish, at least we can communicate on a basic level.