How should interpreters respond to a patient's disclosure of depression or suicidal thoughts?

• A. Interpret inaccurately to downplay risk.
• B. Interpret accurately, maintain confidentiality, and follow facility policy for safety and reporting if there is imminent risk.
• C. Break confidentiality immediately to notify family.
• D. Ignore the disclosure.

Answer: (B)

The situation tests how an interpreter handles disclosures of depression or suicidal thoughts by balancing accurate communication with safety duties and confidentiality rules. The best approach is to interpret accurately, keep the patient’s information confidential, and follow the facility’s safety and reporting procedures if there is imminent risk. Being faithful to what the patient says ensures the clinician has the right information to assess danger and provide help. Maintaining confidentiality respects the patient’s trust, but most facilities have clear safety steps for when there’s a real risk of harm; the interpreter must follow these steps, which usually means escalating to the appropriate clinical staff or emergency services without delay. This approach preserves the patient’s dignity and ensures appropriate action can be taken to protect them.

Interpreting inaccurately or downplaying what was said can hide a genuine risk and prevent timely support. Breaking confidentiality without following the proper safety protocol undermines trust and may expose the patient to harm. Ignoring the disclosure is inappropriate because itLeaves risk unaddressed, which can have serious consequences. By focusing on accurate translation, respecting confidentiality within policy, and acting through the correct safety channels when needed, the interpreter supports both effective communication and patient safety.