Ethical Questions

Domestic violence or child abuse must always be interpreted and reported.

If the patient asks that the interpreter not interpret a specific statement to the medical provider, the interpreter is obligated to do what the patient asks.

The interpreter must follow the facility's policies and regulations when interpreting, even if the interpreter is not employed by the facility.

If the facility requires the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), the interpreter does not need to follow the policy if the interpreter is not employed by the facility.

When working with other healthcare providers, for example, physical therapist or respiratory therapist, the interpreter should not interfere with the professional duties of other healthcare providers.

The interpreter must follow the Medical Interpreters Standards of Practice, Code of Ethics, and Role Boundaries when interpreting or in the process of their interpreting duties.

If the interpreter does not agree with the medical treatment or plan because the interpreter thinks it has certain risks, the interpreter must advise the patient privately.