I love the code of ethics for many reasons. It gives me a welcome framework to guide my work. But taken too literally, ethics can hinder the facilitation of communication if not applied with regard for the situation at hand. Here are a couple examples of how interpreters can hinder communication by blindly adhering to ethical standards.
3 Simple Ways Interpreter Managers Can Invest in Their Team’s Development
Interpreter Managers play a critical role in building a team of interpreters that is engaged and invested in the work they do. Inevitably, some responsibilities, such as supporting the professional development of the interpreters in your department, take a back seat to the many other priorities that require your attention. Here are three simple things you can do to invest in the continued professional development of your team of healthcare interpreters.
Be Identifiable: I’m the interpreter, not a family member
Health care interpreters can benefit by wearing a uniform or other apparel that clearly identifies him or her as the interpreter. It makes the interpreter visible and distinguishes him or her from other individuals in the encounter, like family or members of the nursing team. It is a good first step toward creating awareness of role boundaries and role differentiation. And that's not all.
Communicating Across Cultures Requires More Than Language
There's more to communicating across cultures than finding a shared language (or interpreter). It is also necessary to develop skills and strategies that allow you to communicate effectively across cultures. Who knew time at a great conference and ordering a glass of water could be so insightful?
I’m an interpreter, not a health care practitioner
When I was new to interpreting, I would often find myself listening to the patient’s symptoms and making determinations (to myself, of course) as to what the diagnosis was. Not surprisingly, my diagnoses were frequently wrong, and so I came to realize that while I might know a lot of medical terms and concepts, I had no business trying to apply that knowledge beyond the accurate conversion of messages between languages.
Healthcare Interpreters, Protect Yourselves!
Healthcare interpreting can be hazardous, especially for interpreters who work onsite at hospitals and other healthcare facilities. Interpreters need to be aware of potential health and safety hazards and take the appropriate measures to minimize or eliminate the risks.
So, you think you can interpret in healthcare?
Let’s face it. Not all teachers have what it takes to handle Kindergarten, and not all nurses have what it takes to handle the ICU. The same can be said for interpreters. Not all interpreters can handle international affairs and not all interpreters can handle healthcare. With that in mind, how can you tell if healthcare interpreting is right for you?
5 Tips When Debriefing After Healthcare Interpreter Field Observation
As field observation becomes a standard part of interpreter training programs and employee evaluations, the need to conduct effect post-session debriefs (a.k.a. performance feedback) grows. Facilitating a good debrief session is requires preparation and skill just as interpreting itself does. Here are a few tips to consider.