An invasive procedure is planned for a child in the ED. What intervention best supports the non-English speaking family?

Dedicating a healthcare team member with an interpreter is the most effective intervention for supporting a non-English speaking family during an invasive procedure. This approach ensures that the family receives accurate and real-time communication regarding the child's care, the procedure being performed, and any potential risks or outcomes. By having a dedicated team member who can facilitate dialogue in the family's language, it reassures the family and allows them to ask questions or express concerns without the barrier of language confusion.

While providing a pamphlet in their language can be helpful, it doesn’t facilitate immediate communication nor allows for an interactive dialogue, which is crucial in an emergency setting. Using simple medical terms may be beneficial; however, it does not address the potential misunderstanding that can arise with medical jargon or complex concepts. Allowing the family to call a translator might introduce delays and uncertainty in communication, which can be particularly detrimental in time-sensitive situations. Engaging a dedicated team member with an interpreter directly addresses these challenges, ensuring effective, timely, and compassionate communication.