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Introduction: Language barriers place patients at risk of substandard care. Hospitalized patients with limited English proficiency (LEP) face unique challenges, especially in the intensive care unit (ICU). The purpose of this review is to critique and synthesize quantitative evidence on LEP and ICU outcomes. Methodology: Quantitative studies published in English between 1999 and 2022 were queried using intentional terminology. Results: Searches yielded 138 results, with 12 meeting inclusion criteria. The analysis resulted in the extrapolation of five themes pertinent to outcomes of ICU patients or families with LEP: (a) knowledge deficit relating to conditions and care; (b) lack of language-appropriate care; (c) alienation from care process; (d) decreased confidence and ownership of care; and (e) relationship to clinical quality indicators. Discussion: Outcomes associated with LEP were largely negative and revealed unmet needs for ICU patients with LEP. More research is needed to improve linguistically and culturally congruent care in the ICU.
Lehman et al. (Tue,) studied this question.