Before Your First Encounter Using an Interpreter

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.   Definitions   Interpretation vs translation   Modes of interpretation   When do I need an interpreter? III.           Who should not serve as an interpreter?   Non-certified team members   Patient’s non-certified friends or community members   Patient’s family members   Getting started   Verify preferred language   Positions in the room   Introductions, including of the interpreter and recording interpreter’s information   Conducting the visit   How long to speak before awaiting interpretation   During the physical exam   Teach-back method via interpreter   Trouble-shooting   When the patient declines interpreter services   When you think the interpreter is misinterpreting   When you have technical difficulties or ambient noise VII.         At the end of the encounter   Translating written patient materials   Considering variable written and medical literacies   Next steps and follow-up care VIII.        After the visit   Documentation of your use of interpreter services   Verification of preferred language   Resources: –...

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