Risks involved when using untrained interpreters in a health consultation
VideoAbout this resource
This is a video showing what can go wrong when conducting a health consultation involving a child as an interpreter. We should never use a child as an interpreter.
Additionally, there are potential risks when using an untrained interpreter (such as family members, friends, etc) in a health consultation. From a clinical safety perspective, for example, the untrained interpreter might:
- omit important information because they cannot keep up or may not know the appropriate equivalent in the patient’s language.
- change the word order of the original statement, thus, changing its original meaning.
- feel the need to add words, phrases or sentences in order to explain the patient’s point.
- give their opinion, answer for the patient or confuse words that sound almost the same.
Date
September 2020
We recommend to learners eligible for accessing our secured eCALD learning management system to:
- enrol into the Module 4 Working with Interpreters online or face-to-face course to gain insight and practical skills.
We also recommend viewing:
- the Guidelines for Working with Interpreters
- an informative video "Telehealth consultation involving an interpreter" for health practitioners, showing what you will need and what to expect for a video appointment using an interpreter
Produced by eCALD Services, Waitemata District Health Board.
© Waitemata District Health Board [2010-2020].
