title: Training challenge: when the patient speaks a different language.
abstract: When a patient wanted to change to the Newton IQ cycler with IQcard (Fresenius Medical Care, Bad Homburg, Germany), several barriers to training presented: fear of training, limited memory, and language barrier. During demonstrations, the nurse spoke slowly and observed body language for cues before introducing the next piece of information. Day 1 featured interruptions by other patients; the patient in training became noticeably nervous and verbalized a fear of learning. Day 2 training was conducted in a more secluded area to ensure privacy. The patient's body language was more open, and recall of information from the previous day was better. On day 3, the patient asked for written instructions in Korean for reference; she chatted more and shared information about her family. On day 4, the patient was animated when greeted by the nurse with a Korean phrase; she practiced setting up the cycler independently. To enhance communication when language is a barrier, provide training in a quiet area free of disruptions; encourage the patient to make notes in the primary language to reinforce and provide written reminder for reference at home; and provide training videos or DVDs to support and enhance instruction. Sensitivity to the patient's culture shows respect and builds trust during training encounters.
authors.affiliation: FMCNA, Renal Therapies Group, Valrico, Florida, USA. Debra.mcclure@fmc-na.com
authors.forename: Debra L
authors.initials: DL
authors.lastname: McClure
mesh_terms: D003144:Communication Barriers; D006801:Humans; D007802:Language; D009723:Nurse-Patient Relations; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D010530:Peritoneal Dialysis