Many of our patients and their families are not proficient in English, and it's important to be able to communicate effectively with them.  In this episode, you’ll learn about how to work with an interpreter during encounters with patients who are not proficient in English. We’ll discuss dos and don’ts, common challenges, and tips for interacting with interpreters and families.

1.   Definitions


2.   Interpretation vs translation


3.   Modes of interpretation


4.   When do I need an interpreter?

III.           Who should not serve as an interpreter?

1.   Non-certified team members


2.   Patient’s non-certified friends or community members


3.   Patient’s family members


4.   Getting started


5.   Verify preferred language


6.   Positions in the room


7.   Introductions, including of the interpreter and recording interpreter’s information


8.   Conducting the visit


9.   How long to speak before awaiting interpretation


10.   During the physical exam


11.   Teach-back method via interpreter


12.   Trouble-shooting


13.   When the patient declines interpreter services


14.   When you think the interpreter is misinterpreting


15.   When you have technical difficulties or ambient noise

VII.         At the end of the encounter

1.   Translating written patient materials


2.   Considering variable written and medical literacies


3.   Next steps and follow-up care

VIII.        After the visit

1.   Documentation of your use of interpreter services


2.   Verification of preferred language

Resources:

–         “Addressing Low Health Literacy and Limited English Proficiency,” American Academy of Pediatrics: https://www.aap.org/en/practice-management/providing-patient--and-family-centered-care/addressing-low-health-literacy-and-limited-english-proficiency/

–         “Guidelines for Use of Medical Interpreter Services,” Association of American Medical Colleges: https://www.aamc.org/media/24801/download

–         “Appropriate Use of Medical Interpreters,” American Academy of Family Physicians: https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2014/1001/p476.html

–         “Working effectively with an interpreter,” U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health: https://thinkculturalhealth.hhs.gov/assets/pdfs/resource-library/working-effectively-with-interpreter.pdf