Evaluating a Triage Screen in a Pediatric Emergency Department to Improve Appropriate Identification of Immigrant Populations

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Emergency Medicine
• Health Services Research
• Immigration Health

Background:

• Children in immigrant families (CIFs) face significant healthcare disparities in pediatric emergency departments (PEDs).
• Underutilization of interpreters for non-English speakers exacerbates these disparities.
• CIFs are often excluded from clinical research, hindering improvements in their care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate an immigration and language triage screen in a PED.
• To improve the identification of CIFs and their language preferences.
• To address healthcare access and research barriers for CIFs.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional analysis of attitudes toward a triage screen.
• Survey of caregivers regarding country of origin and language preference.
• Identification of CIFs based on country of birth for child or caregiver.

Main Results:

• CIFs identified in 21.9% of encounters.
• 92% of surveyed families were comfortable with the triage screen.
• 18% of families needing interpreters had needs identified late.

Conclusions:

• A language and immigration triage screen is feasible and acceptable in PEDs.
• The screen improves identification of CIFs and their language needs.
• This can enhance healthcare quality and research for immigrant children.