Language Barriers

If a language barrier exists, obtain a translator to help you with your teaching.Family members and friends should not be used as translators of medical information. They may not translate information exactly as stated and may not be familiar with medical terminology. This also may breach patient privacy and confidentiality - the patient may not want the family member to know about their illness or treatment.

Interpreters provide services on a volunteer basis and therefore are not available at all times. Requests for interpreters are dispatched on a first come first serve basis, and may be submitted in advace of the patients arrival. Interpreters may provide translation in person, or by phone. Be prepared to begin the interpreter process within 10 minutes of the interpreter's arrival in the area. If more time is needed, re-schedule the session for a time convenient for all parties.

Caution must be exercised to ensure that translation does not include the translator's own interpretation of what is being taught. The simultaneous interpretation technique should be used. The interpreter speaks in the first person and interprets every single word as it is spoken.

The interpreter does not omit, edit, summarize or embellish the patient's or the health care provider's information. Stress the important of translating the information exactly as it is presented.

Questions by the patient to the translator should be translated exactly to the health care provider. This will enable the provider to clearly assess the patient's learning and to provide the best response.

Validation of learning by the family member and the patient must be clear and documented.

Pictures, diagrams and demonstrations should be used whenever possible to assist in teaching procedures and techniques. (See appendix for sample diagrams and pictures).

Return demonstrations should be used to evaluate learning of procedures and techniques.

Approved written and audiovisual resources in languages other than English may be used to assist in the teaching process.

At the Allen Pavilion, call Patient Relations for interpreter services

During normal business hours (Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm), the sign language interpreter serves both the Columbia Presbyterian and the New York Weill Cornell Medical Centers. During these hours the interpreter will coordinate requests to arrange for language interpreter services during off- hours.

• · At CPMC, Call 305-9607 or Beeper 2347
• At NYWCMC call interpreter Services at 746-4397

After normal business hours the administrator on call at each center will coordinate any requests for sign language interpreting. At CPMC call the AOC at Beeper 2251. At NYWCMC, call the AOC at 746-0891.