Improving ICU care for patients who speak languages other than English

Examination of Health Disparities in ICU Delirium Prevention and Management for Patients Who Speak A Language Other Than English

NIH-funded research University of Washington · NIH-10995139

This study is looking at how to better support non-English speaking patients in the ICU by making sure they get the right care and communication, so they can feel more comfortable and safe during their treatment.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Washington NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-10995139 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the prevention and management of delirium in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients who do not speak English. It aims to address health disparities by ensuring that these patients receive comprehensive care through the ABCDEF bundle, which includes pain assessment, sedation choices, and family engagement. The study will explore the barriers faced by non-English speaking patients in accessing these critical components of care, particularly the lack of professional medical interpreters. By identifying and addressing these barriers, the research seeks to improve health equity in critical care settings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are critically ill patients in the ICU who speak a language other than English.

Not a fit: Patients who are fluent in English or those who are not critically ill may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better outcomes for non-English speaking ICU patients by ensuring they receive appropriate delirium prevention and management.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has highlighted the importance of effective communication in healthcare, suggesting that addressing language barriers can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.