CAUDA EQUINA SCREENING IN PHYSIOTHERAPY: A QUALITATIVE STUDY INTO THE CULTURAL EXPERIENCE OF PAKISTANI INTERPRETERS
Damien Kimber, C Wood, J Harris, G Birdi, G MansellConflicts of Interest: None
Sources of Funding: £5000 joint funding from Aston University and Birmingham Community Healthcare NHSFT
Introduction
Cauda Equina Syndrome (CES) is a rare but serious condition associated with low back pain. Delay in diagnosing or treating CES can lead to long-term problems and therefore, effective screening is essential. Previously published work with Physiotherapists involved in the screening for CES, highlighted perceived barriers to effective screening caused by culture and language. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences, cultural beliefs and feelings of Pakistani interpreters, specifically relating to culture and language, during the process of screening for CES.
Methodology
Ethical approval was granted by Aston University (REC ID HLS21145). Recruitment of Pakistani interpreters was via purposive sampling from the interpreting service used by the researcher's NHS Trust. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, recorded and transcribed via Microsoft Teams. Transcripts were verified and subjected to Reflexive Thematic Analysis.
Results
12 participants were interviewed. Data saturation was reached. Results reveal 5 main themes: acceptability & language barriers, society & culture, educational background, improvements for practice and interpreter role.
Discussion
In this first known exploration of Pakistani culture and language relating specifically to CES screening, 5 important themes have emerged. This new understanding will have direct impact on clinicians and Pakistani patients, providing more culturally appropriate CES screening. Some key findings, namely the use of less explicit, more modest genital sensation and sexual function terminology, differs markedly from the current best-practice guidance. These findings would benefit from deeper exploration with the Pakistani community in order to update guidance and deliver better, more culturally-appropriate care in the future.