CHI Ethics & Professional Standards

Question 1

What is the healthcare interpreter's code of ethics regarding accuracy?

Accepted Answer

Interpreters must convey all messages completely and accurately without adding, omitting, or changing meaning

Answer

Interpreters may simplify complex medical information

Answer

Interpreters should add their own medical opinions

Answer

Only important information needs to be interpreted

Question 2

What does impartiality mean for a healthcare interpreter?

Accepted Answer

Remaining neutral and not taking sides, even when personally disagreeing with what is being communicated

Answer

Always agreeing with the healthcare provider

Answer

Advocating for the patient's preferences

Answer

Taking the side of whoever is paying for the service

Question 3

When should a healthcare interpreter break confidentiality?

Accepted Answer

When required by law (child abuse reporting, imminent danger) or when patient safety is at immediate risk

Answer

Interpreters should never break confidentiality under any circumstances

Answer

Whenever a family member requests information

Answer

When the information is interesting enough to share

Question 4

What is the interpreter's role regarding cultural brokering?

Accepted Answer

To bridge cultural gaps by explaining cultural practices that may affect healthcare decisions when relevant

Answer

To change the patient's cultural beliefs to match Western medicine

Answer

To ignore cultural differences and focus only on language

Answer

Cultural brokering is outside the interpreter's scope entirely

Question 5

How should an interpreter handle a situation where they realize a medical error is being communicated?

Accepted Answer

Interpret accurately what is being said and, if appropriate, ask for clarification to ensure the message is correct

Answer

Correct the medical error themselves without informing anyone

Answer

Refuse to interpret incorrect medical information

Answer

Leave the room immediately to avoid involvement

Question 6

What is the standard of practice for telephone/video remote interpreting in healthcare?

Accepted Answer

Same ethical and accuracy standards apply as in-person, with additional protocols for technology management and privacy

Answer

Lower accuracy standards are acceptable for remote interpreting

Answer

Remote interpreting is not recognized as professional interpreting

Answer

Only video interpreting meets professional standards