News release

From: Pasifika Medical Association Group

Pacific nurses’ experiences of informal interpreting and language assistance in healthcare settings in Aotearoa New Zealand: results of an alumni survey

This study examined the experiences of Pacific nurses in Aotearoa New Zealand who provide language assistance to patients during healthcare. Many Pacific patients have limited English proficiency, so nurses are often asked to interpret in their own language. While this improves patient trust, understanding and engagement, nurses face challenges such as complex medical terminology, competing work priorities and ethical concerns. They typically perform this role without formal training or additional compensation, despite its positive impact on care. The findings highlight the need for health services to invest in professional interpreters, to offer training for bilingual staff and to formally recognise the cultural and linguistic contributions of Pacific nurses.