Investigating The Impacts Of Language Barriers On Communication Between Nurses And Patients In Hafr Al Batin Healthcare Settings

Abstract

Effective patient-provider communication facilitates quality care, but language differences can impede interactions. This study explored the impacts of language barriers between nurses and patients in Hafr Al Batin, Saudi Arabia. A mixed methods design incorporated a survey of 50 nurses and semi-structured interviews with 15 nurses across 3 hospitals. Qualitative content analysis of interviews identified key communication challenges including difficulty understanding patients’ symptoms, inability to explain diagnoses/treatments, impaired rapport building, and risks of clinical errors. Survey results showed 76% of nurses encountered language barriers often or daily, primarily with expat patients. Impacts included communication difficulties (86%), frustration (64%), needing interpreters (54%), and perceived compromises in care (48%). Nurses desired expanded interpreter access and language training to address gaps. Overall, language barriers significantly impact nurse-patient communications in Hafr Al Batin, highlighting needs to support linguistically and culturally competent care. Findings can inform initiatives to strengthen communication and train bilingual healthcare providers in Saudi Arabia’s multicultural environment.