During an appointment, the mother repeatedly nods her head in apparent understanding, as the psychologist discusses the results of the child’s developmental evaluation. However, the interpreter knows that culturally nodding the head doesn’t always indicate understanding. 

What is the barrier to communication?

A patient’s father who speaks some English is speaking with the anesthesiologist about consent for surgery. Sometimes the patient’s father jumps in to answer questions in English cutting off the interpreter. Other times, he will answer part of the question and then look to the interpreter for help. It is clear to the interpreter that he really hasn’t fully understood what has been said. However, the Dr. seems satisfied with the answers given and indicates the encounter has ended.

What is the barrier to communication?

You have just completed interpreting for the triage nurse in the emergency room. As you walk out, the doctor walks up and asks you to give him a summary of what has been discussed so far prior to going into the room. Because you are part of the treating team, you go ahead and give him the summary.

What is the barrier to communication?

During an assignment at a clinic for a patient participating in a research drug trial, you are asked to sight translate a complicated legal form, one you haven’t seen before. You express your doubts about your ability to do it correctly and tell her they need to have that type of a document already translated for Spanish. The clinic coordinator begs you telling you you’re the only person available and that they don't have a way to get the documents translated.

What is the barrier to communication?

How many barriers to communication are there? 

Select the barriers to communication.

When dealing with barriers, when in doubt....

If a patient asks me to explain what the doctor just said, I can do that because I just interpreted that information and it is fresh in my mind. 

As an interpreter, there is never a situation in which there is more than one possible "right" course of action. 

Knowing what to do is never enough. You must put the ethical principles into practice and have effective decision-making skills. 

When there is a breakdown in communication the best and fastest course of action is for the interpreter to explain it themselves and move on. 

A desire to simply "help" the patient can lead to unintended problems, including ones that can put their lives at risk. 

When faced with role confusion I should

If problems arise during a session and the patient or provider asks you a question what should you do?

Explaining anyone's individual cultural beliefs or practices would violate the foundational principle of ________________.

Patient's lack of awareness as to the process of the medical system and what provider service to use when is an example of a service system barrier. 

Role confusion can be when an interpreter is asked to give advice to a patient or help with patient care.