Language translation of outcome measurement tools: views of health professionals

Dunkley, M., Hughes, R., Addington-Hall, J.M. and Higginson, I.J. (2003) Language translation of outcome measurement tools: views of health professionals. International Journal of Palliative Nursing, 9 (2), 49-55.

Abstract

Assessing the outcome and effectiveness of treatment is extremely important in nursing practice and it is vital that outcome measures are available to non-English speakers. We investigated health professionals’ views on translating outcome measures for use in nursing practice. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 10 health professionals. Content analysis of data identified the following two broad themes: meeting need and cultural considerations. Specific palliative care issues were also identified. Low literacy levels among ethnically diverse communities and the need to ensure cultural equivalence were perceived as major challenges for palliative nursing practitioners when translating outcome measures. Given increasing cultural diversity within the UK, health professionals considered clinical tool translation worthwhile because it helps to address inequalities in health-care provision for ethnically diverse communities. A consideration of the cultural context is needed when interpreting responses on translated outcome measures. However, translations into appropriate languages can help overcome communication barriers and minimize the need for family members to act as interpreters for patients with palliative care needs.

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