Lesson 5: Clarifying

Question 1

what is intervening as an MI

Answer 1

this is when an interpreter interrupts the provider patient dialogue with a comment or question

Question 2

when should be the only time that an interpreter interrupts the dialogue between patient and provider

Answer 2

only when you are trying to clarify the communication

Question 3

what is the basic guideline that helps summarize the role of the clarifier

Answer 3

interpret what is said faithfully, but in such a way that the listener can understand; check for understanding

Question 4

what are 3 situations when an interpreter must intervene the provider patient communication?

Answer 4

1. interpreter needs to repeat what the speaker said
2. interpreter needs to ask the speaker to use shorter sentences
3. speaker is not pausing enough to allow for interpretation

Question 5

how should an MI intervene

Answer 5

they need to be as unobtrusive as possible while still using your own voice to speak

Question 6

what are the 4 main guidelines to effectively intervene

Answer 6

1. stay calm
2. be transparent
3. don’t make assumptions
4. use third person while intervening
5. return to conduit interpreting as soon as possible

Question 7

what are the 3 strategies for interpreting when the provider is using complex language that is very formal or complex

Answer 7

1. interpret using the same complicated level of language and watch for patient understanding
2. ask the provider to speak in simpler language
3. lower the register without changing essential meaning
   (3rd one only used if interpreter is very experienced/familiar with the topic being discussed)

Question 8

what to do if a word has no linguistic equivalence in the target language

Answer 8

1. ask the provider to explain the word or concept
2. use a word picture

Question 9

what to do when interpreting idioms

Answer 9

1. use an equivalent idiom in the target language
2. interpret the underlying meaning not the exact words
3. ask provider to avoid using idioms
4. ask for clarification if the intended meaning is unclear

Question 10

what is an important aspect when acting as a clarifier

Answer 10

constantly checking for provider and patient understanding

Question 11

what are 2 common non-verbal cues that indicate a lack of understanding

Answer 11

puzzled expression or distracted eye contact