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.
Author/owner
eCALD Services, Waitemata DIstrict Health Board
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].
