Simply put, the perfect position for the interpreter in a medical setting is the triangle. This format allows the patient, the medical professional, and the interpreter to easily see and hear each other.
However, sometimes there is only one seat for the patient; the interpreter must stand. The triangle is still the best option. However, the interpreter must also keep in mind that he should not stand where he will be in the way. Medical professionals might be working in the area moving or checking on things and the interpreter should be in a position where he is not interfering with that work.
It might be a challenge, but the interpreter must try to find the best way to maintain eye contact with both the patient and the medical professional. He needs to be close enough to be able to listen to what both doctor and patient are saying. An interpreter cannot render what he cannot hear. Also, sometimes people mumble. Visual cues are part of an interpreter’s arsenal that allows him to understand what is being said.
Professional interpreters do their very best to promote respect among the other parties. it is disrespectful to the patient for the doctor to be looking at the interpreter and it is disrespectful for the doctor for the patient to be looking at the interpreter. They should be looking at each other. I have seen many professional interpreters publicly remind doctors and patients that they need to be addressing each other. Although that might be considered appropriate, the result I have seen is typically frustration. Most doctors don’t like to be constantly corrected in public. It’s embarrassing and can also be considered disrespectful.
I find that what works best for me is to focus on the receiver of the message. When it is time for the doctor to address the patient, I typically look directly at the patient. When the doctor sees that he cannot make eye contact with me; he often looks directly at the patient. I do the same with the patient. If the patient begins to tell me tell the doctor this, I simply look at the doctor and begin to render what the patient is saying to the doctor. The patient will often just change his line of sight to the doctor.
This technique allows me to show dignity to all parties. At the same time, it encourages them to face each other and communicate in a respectful manner. Everyone walks away with a better experience.
If I am in a medical facility where a lot of things are happening, I often find myself doing what I call the medical interpreter dance. I must constantly shift from one place to another in order to stay out of everyone’s way while at the same time maintaining eye contact, I’m trying my best to keep the communication triangle.
So, after all of this, did I answer the question as to where an interpreter should be located during an appointment? No, because that depends upon the medical setting. Just do your best to find a good location to perform interpreting and stay out of the way.
