- Minors should not be used as interpreters except in an emergency because of their limited understanding of adult issues.
Minors may feel an undue responsibility for interpreting for their parents.
In addition, the stress may be even greater for them because of medical interpretations required. - If a family member or friend acts as an interpreter, our hospital will not be involved in any problems caused by mistranslations.
- Interpreting by a family member may constitute a conflict of interest.
- Lack of familiarity with medical terminology can lead to misunderstandings and misinterpretations.
- If a family member or friend acts as an interpreter, the scope of questions may be limited due to intimacy or sexual issues.
