What Are the Challenges of Relying on Family Members or Untrained Interpreters?
While it might be tempting to use family members or untrained individuals for interpretation, this practice poses several risks:
- Bias and Omissions: Family members may inadvertently omit or alter information, leading to incomplete or biased communication. - Emotional Strain: Relatives may find it emotionally challenging to discuss sensitive medical issues, impacting their ability to translate accurately. - Lack of Medical Knowledge: Untrained interpreters may lack the necessary medical vocabulary, leading to potential misunderstandings.