What it means
A professional trained in medical words and in privacy rules who interprets between a client and the care team. Interpreters may be on site, on the phone or on video, including sign language interpreters for clients who are deaf. US hospitals that get federal money must offer them free of charge to clients with limited English.
For the nurse
Use a trained medical interpreter, not a family member and never a child, for health information, consent and teaching. Speak to the client, not the interpreter, in short sentences, and use teach-back to check understanding.
At a glance
| Spanish | intérprete médico |
|---|---|
| Also written | interpreter, interpreters, medical interpreters, interpreter services, interpreter service |
Related terms
informed consent
A person's agreement to a treatment or procedure, given freely after the risks, benefits and other choices have been explained to them.
nonverbal communication
Sending messages without words, through facial expression, eye contact, posture, gestures, touch and tone of voice.
patient-centered
Built around the client's own needs, values and wishes, with the client as a full partner in decisions.