Inpatients' understanding of the hospitalist role and common medical terminology.

Many patients are unable to identify members of their hospital care team and experience confusion regarding some medical terminology used during hospitalization, including descriptions of the structure of their inpatient care team. This cross-sectional study sought to (1) examine inpatients' understanding of the role of a hospitalist and (2) assess inpatients' familiarity with other medical terminology commonly used in the hospital. We surveyed 172 patients admitted to the hospital medicine service at two academic medical centers.

Assessing for differences in opioid administration during inpatient end-of-life care for patients with limited English proficiency.

Background: Patients with limited English proficiency (LEP) may have worse health outcomes and differences in processes of care. Language status may particularly affect situations that depend on communication, such as symptom management or end-of-life (EOL) care.

Objective: The objective of this study was to assess whether opioid prescribing and administration differs by English proficiency (EP) status among hospitalized patients receiving EOL care.

Inpatient Understanding of Their Care Team and Receipt of Mixed Messages: a Two-Site Cross-Sectional Study.

Background: Patient understanding of their care, supported by physician involvement and consistent communication, is key to positive health outcomes. However, patient and care team characteristics can hinder this understanding.

Objective: We aimed to assess inpatients' understanding of their care and their perceived receipt of mixed messages, as well as the associated patient, care team, and hospitalization characteristics.