Language Resources

Tips for Working With Interpreters

  • Give the interpreter an overview of the goals and procedures for the meeting and decide on best seating position based on this.
  • The interpreter is responsible for “message passing”. Their role is to provide accurate and complete transmission of the messages conveyed by the provider to the patient and or family. Their presence should be unobtrusive and non-relational. The interpreter is an instrument for communication.
  • Direct your communication to the patient and family.
  • The interpreter, as a communications advocate, should inform both parties if a cultural factor is interfering with the intended meaning of the message. The interpreter can offer suggestions to both parties to assist in mutual understanding. (Note: Accurate transmission requires equivalent concepts )
  • The responsibility for effective message transmission belongs to the provider. Clarification and obtaining additional information for understanding is the responsibility of the provider. It is not the responsibility of the interpreter to provide cultural explanations.
  • Allow extra time for conversation.
  • Positioning of the interpreter is important. They are a conduit and should be positioned neutrally. The communications should be directed between the two parties and flow through the interpreter.
  • Speak slowly and clearly, one sentence at a time.
  • Avoid metaphors and slang. Use the simplest terms.
  • Allow time for the patient and family to ask questions.
  • Learn some simple greetings in the patient’s primary language such as how to introduce yourself, say hello, or ask how the patient is feeling.
  • Remember that some patients and families can understand English but cannot speak it well enough to converse.
  • Always ask the patient to repeat instructions you gave them to be sure they understood them correctly.

The interpreter is there to relay the message. If you feel that the interpreter may be giving advice, or opinions stop and speak to them privately. All communication should be translated, so you are involved and aware of the discussion.