Lack
of Translatable Words/Concepts
Similar
words do not exist in the two languages; the interpreter
is not
proficient enough in either
language
to find anaccurate
substitute.
Deletion
of Information
The
interpreter cannot keep up with the exchange and paraphrases
or leaves out concepts.
Modification
of Meaning
The
interpreter may not understand what is said, so substitutes
what he or she thinks was said,
often changing the meaning substantially.
Unfamiliar
Terminology
The
interpreter is unfamiliar with medical, health,
or mental health terminology, perhaps in both languages.
Changes
in Register
The
interpreter alters more formal language into colloquial
or just the opposite.
Embarrassment
The
interpreter is not clinically trained and may become
embarrassed while interpreting
discussions
of sexual issues, body functions, and
other sensitive information.
Deliberate
Editing of Information
The interpreter may attempt
to control or alter the flow of information from
one or
both parties for his or her own purposes.
This editing
occurs through
both addition and deletion of words or even whole messages.
Emotional
Issues
The interpreter may be too close to the patient
or not emotionally equipped to be able to deal with
discussions of severe illness
or disorders, serious
medical
situations, or end-of-life concerns.
Confidentiality
The interpreter does not understand the need for confidentiality
or is not bound by professional standards.
Interpreting
in health and mental health care requires the development
of special interactive skills and a high degree of proficiency
in both languages. For example, the knowledge set required
of interpreters is to be familiar with not only a standard
use of language, but also the dialectal variations of
language used within the community, including colloquialisms
and slang. Interpreters also must be aware of confidentiality
requirements both as a matter of ethical conduct and
as health and mental health care regulations.
