If life is like a box of chocolates, then so is interpreting in healthcare. We are exposed to numerous variables every day that we can’t control: type of provider, length of appointment, severity of case, accompanying family members etc. Even a slight variation in any of these factors can turn a seemingly simple appointment into a real doozy! Out of all those variables and variations, I would like to highlight the potential difficulties you may have while interpreting at a pediatric appointment in the presence of parents.
Why are parents perplexing (let me count the ways)? It is because in a pediatric setting, they are not the patient. Many pediatric patients can speak their parents’ language, but also speak English, which allows them to communicate directly with the provider. So, what happens to mom or dad? Is an interpreter needed at all? But, of course! One of the reasons parents attend appointments in the first place is to be able to share valuable information with the provider, and vice versa. To be able to do so, everything needs to be interpreted so that there is a clear picture of what is happening.
How should you handle the following examples, then, of complex provider-patient-parent dynamics? I promise it’s easier than it might seem!
If a provider does not leave you time to interpret, interpret anyway! Some providers are exceptional at controlling timing, speed and blocks of information no matter the patient or the circumstances. Others suppose that if the patient speaks English that there is less need for interpreting and will continue merrily along without you. If you find yourself in a scenario with a provider who does not allow time for you to interpret for parents, take action! First, ask the provider politely for time to interpret. If that doesn’t result in change, switch to simultaneous. In this instance, it’s better to prioritize accuracy over mode. Communication can continue and parents are still fully informed of what is being said.
If a parent is “not paying attention”, interpret anyway! It may seem like a parent is not tuned in to an appointment, but perhaps they are multitasking! If the patient's siblings are along for the ride, then parents might be busy wrangling children. If mom or dad are calling or texting someone, maybe it’s because they need information to answer a question from the provider. This could be a routine appointment and the parent fully trusts their child to communicate with the provider in English. Do not let these assumed signs of disinterest stop you from interpreting. If the parent were in an appointment and spoke the same language as the provider, they could be doing any of the above-mentioned activities and still be able to hear and understand everything! Give the parent access to all the information being shared; they can decide what to do with it.
If a parent speaks English, interpret anyway! Some parents know very little English, and some are almost fluent. Or maybe there is one of each! Either way, you have been requested to be at this appointment and are guaranteeing that messages are being relayed correctly. Hearing parents use English in appointments can make you feel bothersome, like you’re almost getting in the way. Nonetheless, if you are truly not needed, an interpreter will not be scheduled for the next appointment. If you are asked to be there, it’s to ensure that the parents and the provider have no doubts about a child’s health. As long as you are present, give one hundred percent!
Although these situations can be confusing or feel defeating while you’re going through them, there is always a solution. Rarely will you go wrong by interpreting everything in an appointment, even if it seems unnecessary or intimidating. Parents and providers are so grateful for interpreters especially in pediatric settings. So, don’t be perplexed! Instead, be pleasantly surprised at the reactions you get when you simply do what you were trained to do!