Use of Google Translate to Enhance Patient Pain and Nausea Assessment and Satisfaction After General Anesthesia

Use of Google Translate to Enhance Patient Pain and Nausea Assessment and Satisfaction After General Anesthesia: A Pilot Feasibility Study

This study investigates the use of Google Translate "Conversation Mode" translation service to improve communication about pain and nausea with Spanish-speaking patients who are recovering after surgery. The Google Translate "Conversation Mode" translation application is designed to provide translation from one language to another and used to allow the nurse or study doctor to communicate with patients in Spanish by asking pre-prepared questions through an electronic device such as an iPad or iPhone. Google Translate "Conversation Mode" may facilitate assessment of pain and nausea after surgery in Spanish speaking patients.

PRIMARY OBJECTIVE:

I. To determine the feasibility of Google Translate "Conversation Mode" use to assess postoperative surgical pain presence, location and intensity, and nausea presence and intensity in Spanish speaking patients in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU).

SECONDARY OBJECTIVES:

I. To evaluate the length of stay in PACU. II. To assess patient satisfaction with regards to pain/nausea experienced in PACU.

III. To determine nursing satisfaction with regards to the use of Google Translate "Conversation Mode".

OUTLINE:

Patients use Google Translate "Conversation Mode" translation application before and after surgery. Patients also complete survey over 10 minutes.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Ability to provide written informed consent
• Patients between 18-80 years of age whose primary language is Spanish and will require translation services as part of standard care
• American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status (ASA) 1-3
• Are scheduled surgery under general anesthesia
• Ability to understand and complete all study questionnaires

Exclusion Criteria:

• Emergency surgery
• ASA >= 4
• Patients who do not require official translation services for consent purposes
• Patients who have chronic pain and/or are taking opioids chronically (daily intake for more than a month before surgery)
• Patients who undergo craniotomy
• Patients with a hearing impairment that prevents the ability to hear the recorded statements; and/or a cognitive impairment that would prevent them from completing post-op assessments