Interpretation device helps patients talk with nurses and doctors

LOWNDES COUNTY, Miss. (WCBI) – For 13 years, Baptist Memorial Hospital has used a device that allows nurses and doctors to communicate with patients that speak different languages.

It can be difficult trying to communicate with someone who speaks a different language than you do.

That’s why the hospital has used this system with a built-in interpreter so they can provide their patients with the best care possible.

This device is a part of Language Line Solutions, a telephone that provides language interpretations.

Baptist Memorial Hospital has around eight telephones throughout the hospital to communicate with patients who aren’t fluent in English.

“We dial in, we select their language, and then we are able to provide them with any questions, treatments, tell them what we are doing,” said Nurse Manager Brandy Bryant.

Bryant said having interpretation assistance breaks language barriers.

Patients have 20 languages to choose from.

“We have the opportunity to minimize those barriers by communicating directly with the patient through the line,” said Nurse Manager Ashley Chism.

Patients can use this device to talk with nurses about surgeries, medications, or pain they may be feeling.

“It increases their understanding and for their compliance. Then it also allows us to continue to provide high-quality care to the patient,” said Bryant.

“It’s very quick, very easy to use. We’re able to say we are going to give you antibiotics now or is your stomach hurting or whatever it may be,” said Chism.

Bryant said it’s also helpful with younger patients.

“Even if the parents may speak some English, some of the children don’t. This is very beneficial in our ER and in our pediatric community,” said Bryant.

The language phone is available for use 24/7, 365 days a year.

Bryant and Chism said with modern technology constantly changing, this takes Baptist Memorial Hospital a step further for medical assistance.

“The time’s changing and being exposed to people with all different nationalities that it’s important for us to be able to communicate with everybody,” said Chism.

Baptist also has a sign language device that communicates with patients who may be deaf.