· Expect and allow interpreters to introduce their role and responsibilities to you, and in the other language to your client · Whenever possible, provide background information for the interpreter to become familiar with the subject matter · You will need extra time when working with an interpreter · Avoid long, complex sentences. · Speak clearly, loudly and at a moderate pace · Talk directly to your client/patient not to the interpreter · Do not ask the interpreter for his/her opinion · For long assignments, provide a break as accuracy declines with time (simultaneous after 30 minutes, consecutive after 90 minutes) · Pause frequently to allow the interpreter to render all the information (remember that studies have shown that it takes an average of 8 seconds to process a segment of information) · Be aware of non-verbal communication · Encourage the interpreter to clarify terms · Some words do not have an exact translation into the foreign language; the interpreter will provide a paraphrase. · Remember not to say anything in front of the client that you do not want interpreted · Expect the interpreter to use tools such as dictionaries and note pads · Be aware of possible administrative necessities – signing forms, filling out feedback forms |