Emergency Medicine

Emergency departments often need to communicate quickly with patients and families when circumstances are changing. ACEP’s policy statement discusses using qualified or professional medical interpreters when feasible in the emergency department. A published study also examines communication around pediatric emergency-department discharge instructions. Practical language assistance can help staff and families work through conversations, written discharge materials, and follow-up information in the languages they use. It is not clinical or legal advice, does not determine what care is appropriate, and does not replace a facility’s own policies, professional judgment, or interpreter procedures. Language assistance cannot establish compliance or guarantee understanding, care, discharge, or health outcomes.