Working with an interpreter

Also known as: Using an interpreter

Using a professional interpreter (not a family member) when there is a language barrier, speaking to the patient directly and in short, clear segments.

Recognising the need for an interpreter — and avoiding using a relative, especially for sensitive or safeguarding issues — is a safe-practice point examiners value.

More glossary terms

ABCDE approachA systematic method for assessing and treating an acutely unwell patient — Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability, Exposure — dealing with each before moving on.
AMPLE historyA focused emergency history — Allergies, Medications, Past history, Last meal, Events — taken quickly in acute situations.
ARCPThe annual assessment that decides whether a doctor in training has met the competencies to progress to the next stage.
AVPU scaleA rapid way to grade consciousness — Alert, responds to Voice, responds to Pain, Unresponsive — used in initial assessment.

Put it into practice

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