Working with interpreters
Suzy Hansford
Before the interpreting session

Take a little time to brief the interpreter
 Make sure the interpreter and the patient speak the
same language (and dialect)
 Ensure the interpreter understands what your service
does and clarify your role
 Allow the interpreter time to introduce themselves to the
patient
 If possible, arrange the room so that the most direct
communication is between you and the patient
 Make sure the interpreter understands the purpose and
desired outcome of the session
During the interpreting session
enough time for the session –
remember it is likely to take twice as long
 Avoid ambiguous or over complex
grammar and vocabulary
 Speak clearly and use short sentences
 Give the interpreter chance to interpret
 Don’t make assumptions. Check that you
have been understood.
 Avoid using too much jargon
 Allow
Continued…….

Speak directly to the patient, not to the
interpreter
 Check before you assume that the interpreter is
adding to your words
 Do not ask the interpreter to do a sight
translation of a written document. If you need
something translating – read it out and ask the
interpreter to interpret
 Treat the interpreter as a professional and be
mindful of the pressure on them
More…..

Remember the interpreter is not an advocate or
community worker
 Be aware of your own cultural attitudes and take
a lead from the interpreter for guidance on
cultural matters
 Do not discuss the patient with the interpreter –
this may confuse the patient and make them
more anxious
 The interpreter will interpret everything that is
said, so say what you mean
Concluding the session

Check with the patient that they have
understood everything
 Allow the patient to clarify things
 If a follow up appointment is necessary, make
the appointment there and then. If you wish to
use the same interpreter, fill out a direct booking
form
 If the session has been distressing offer a short
debrief to the interpreter and inform the
interpreting service manager
 If
there have been any problems with the
interpreter or the assignment, please let
the interpreting service manager know
 Complete and sign the second part of the
claim form to confirm that the assignment
has taken place. Give it back to the
interpreter