D396 Task 2 Multilingual Fall Prevention for Elderly Immigrants (Evidence-Based Practice for Health

D396 Task 2: Multilingual Fall Prevention for Elderly Immigrants (Evidence-Based Practice for Health and Human Services) 2026 new version Western Governors University

A. The chosen scenario from Task One was regarding the elderly immigrant who suffered from a language barrier and frequent falls. My solution to his problem was to offer translator services to the patient to educate him in fall prevention and offer training in his native language on using medical devices to prevent future falls. My research question was, "In elderly immigrant patients with a recent history of falls, how does the use of multilingual fall-prevention education and physical therapy interventions impact fall recurrence compared to standard fall-prevention education in English only?"

To develop a solution that addresses the needs of an elderly immigrant patient with a history of falls and limited English proficiency, I followed the evidence-based practice (EBP) process. First, I formulated a focused clinical question using the PICO framework: In elderly immigrant patients with a recent history of falls, how does multilingual fall prevention education and physical therapy interventions impact fall recurrence compared to standard fall-prevention education in English only? I then conducted a thorough search of peer-reviewed literature using the WGU Library. I selected studies from the last 5 years that addressed the impact of language barriers on healthcare outcomes. For example, Schulson et al. (2025) identified the increased risk of patient safety events for individuals with limited English proficiency.

Meanwhile, Khanal (2025) highlighted immigrant patients' cultural and communication

challenges in accessing care. By appraising this evidence, I identified that multilingual education and culturally competent physical therapy are essential interventions. These strategies directly address both the clinical fall risk and the healthcare communication gaps experienced by immigrants, which is evidence-based and contextually appropriate.

B. To address the problems faced by my elderly immigrant patient with a history of falls, multiple steps will be used to implement the proposed solution. The first step focuses on providing multilingual fall prevention education. Khanal (2025) emphasized the negative impact of limited English proficiency on patient understanding and overall healthcare.

Educational materials will be translated into the patient’s native language. These materials will include visual aids, simple instructions, translator services by person, or a digital translation device such as an iPad. Trained interpreters or digital translation devices will deliver the content to ensure comprehension and foster trust. The second step involves referring patients to physical therapists who undergo training in cultural competency. Schulson et al. (2025) identified an increased risk of safety events among

patients with language barriers; incorporating interpreter services during healthcare sessions is essential to improve communication and adherence. Physical therapists will also be encouraged to use culturally sensitive practices that respect the patient’s background. The third step addresses social determinants of health by connecting the patient and their caregiver to case management services, which include assistance with housing, transportation, and community programs. Khanal (2025) noted that many immigrants rely on community networks due to gaps in understanding, so this step ensures that the patient receives professional information. These three steps provide a comprehensive and evidence-based approach to reducing fall risk and improving healthcare outcomes for elderly immigrant patients in a linguistically and culturally appropriate manner.

C. For healthcare professionals, this solution encourages cultural competence and improved communication skills, ultimately enhancing the quality of care and reducing medical errors that may further affect the patient. This solution may also require more initial training and time using translator services, but it may make the patient healthier, ultimately reducing medical interventions and interactions.

The client's support system—particularly family members like the patient’s daughter—will benefit from accessible education and case management services that help them better understand how to support the patient’s recovery and long-term safety. The solution relieves stress and empowers caregivers to participate more effectively in caring for their loved ones, which may ultimately free up time they may have previously used at healthcare appointments, transporting those they care for.

At the community level, the solution proposed promotes greater trust in the healthcare system among immigrant populations. Khanal (2025) emphasizes that systemic language access and care coordination improvements can reduce health disparities and build a more inclusive environment for all patients, ultimately leading to healthier, more engaged communities.

D. While the evidence-based solution is strongly supported by research, it can be improved by healthcare professional expertise. Clinicians, nurses, physical therapists, and case managers bring firsthand knowledge of patient behaviors, cultural dynamics, and logistical barriers that research may not fully capture. For example, clinical healthcare professionals can adapt educational materials in real-time based on a patient's language

literacy, body language, or cultural concerns. Their expertise and clinical evaluation can also guide when and how often to utilize interpretation services, modify physical therapy plans, or connect patients with appropriate community services. Schulson et al. (2025) state that standardized interventions may not be effective unless they are flexible and tailored to individual needs. By combining evidence-based strategies with in-person clinical care, healthcare professionals can personalize, identify gaps, and contribute to continuously improving a culturally responsive healthcare setting.

References

Khanal, S. K. (2025). Language barriers and their consequences in healthcare: A qualitative case study of Nepali migrants in Finland. BMC Health Services Research, 25(1), Article 577. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-025-12757-y Schulson, L. B., Rodriguez, J. A., Cruz, R., Flynn, D., C Fernandez, A. (2025). Patient Safety Event Risk and Language Barriers: A Scoping Review. Joint Commission Journal on Quality and Patient Safety, 51(6), 438–446. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcjq.2025.02.002