Lost in Translation

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I have a potential position as a new grad at a hospital where 99% of the patients are spanish speaking. I made sure that the hiring manager knows that I do not speak spanish at this time, but I will learn. He said there are translating phones available. I love diversity and I have no problem being an RN in a spanish speaking population, but I am somewhat concerned that since this is my first job as a new grad that the language barrier will leave me "lost in translation"-so to speak. Can anyone give me feedback about experiences you have had with nursing a population with language differences, not just sometimes, it would be day in and day out.

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Wow, I couldn't imagine working in a spanish speaking facility as a new grad. I would be afraid that so much information would be lost in just the orientation process of the new job. It's hard enough starting a new job just out of nursing school. Maybe I'm just a chicken, but I would save a job like that for a few years down the road. Let me know what you decide. Good luck.

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Specializes in Leadership, Psych, HomeCare, Amb. Care.

OK,they are spanish speaking; but is it spanish only or are many bilingual.

Remember that Hispanic americans that speak english far outnumber Anglo-Americans that speak any 2nd language.

Not an answer, but a point to consider

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