What is the recommended practice regarding using family members as interpreters?

• A. Always use a family member as the interpreter.
• B. Use a professional interpreter whenever possible; if unavoidable, obtain patient consent, limit the information, and document.
• C. Never document anything.
• D. Let the patient handle translation themselves.

Answer: (B)

Using a professional medical interpreter whenever possible ensures accurate, confidential communication and preserves trust. Trained interpreters know medical terminology, how to phrase information clearly, and how to handle cultural nuances, all while following ethics that protect patient privacy. Family members can unintentionally alter or omit details, insert personal biases, or feel uncomfortable translating sensitive topics, which can lead to misunderstandings or unsafe care.

If you must use a family member because a professional interpreter isn’t available, obtain the patient’s consent to use that person, limit the information shared to what’s necessary for care, and document that you used a family member as interpreter, along with their relationship to the patient. This documentation supports accountability and continuity of care.

Relying on a family member in all cases, not documenting interpreter use, or asking the patient to translate instead of providing appropriate support all fail to protect accuracy, privacy, and clinician-patient communication.