CPI Interpretation Techniques & Skills 5 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: In consecutive interpreting, numbers are a common source of error. What is the best practice?
- Always write numbers down in notes (Correct answer)
- Round numbers to make them easier
- Ask the listener to recall them
- Remember them without notes to save time
Correct answer: Always write numbers down in notes
Writing down numbers ensures accurate rendition of figures like dosages, dates, and measurements.
Question 2: Which mode involves the interpreter speaking at nearly the same time as the speaker, often with headsets?
- Summary
- Sight translation
- Simultaneous (Correct answer)
- Consecutive
Correct answer: Simultaneous
Simultaneous interpreting occurs in near real time, often using equipment in conferences or group settings.
Question 3: A patient speaks very quickly and rambles, making accurate interpretation difficult. What should the interpreter do?
- Interpret only the important parts
- Summarize what the patient means
- Ask the provider to interrupt the patient
- Ask the patient, after informing the provider, to pause more frequently (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Ask the patient, after informing the provider, to pause more frequently
Interpreters may manage the session flow transparently to preserve accuracy and completeness.
Question 4: What is the main purpose of a pre-session with the provider?
- To translate documents in advance
- To discuss the patient's personal life
- To introduce the interpreter's role and briefly clarify the encounter's goal (Correct answer)
- To negotiate fees
Correct answer: To introduce the interpreter's role and briefly clarify the encounter's goal
A brief pre-session clarifies roles and the encounter's purpose, supporting effective communication.
Question 5: An interpreter's rendition changes 'I feel a little dizzy' to 'I feel very dizzy.' This is an error of:
- Clarification
- Register
- Intensification (distortion) (Correct answer)
- Omission
Correct answer: Intensification (distortion)
Changing the degree of a symptom is a distortion that may affect clinical decisions.
Question 6: Which of the following best describes active listening in interpreting?
- Focusing on individual words only
- Analyzing the speaker's meaning, intent, and structure while listening (Correct answer)
- Waiting for the speaker to finish before paying attention
- Taking verbatim notes
Correct answer: Analyzing the speaker's meaning, intent, and structure while listening
Active listening means processing meaning and intent, not just hearing words.
Question 7: When should an interpreter use sight translation rather than a written translation?
- For lengthy legal documents to be kept on file
- For short documents needed immediately during the encounter (Correct answer)
- For any document over 20 pages
- Never; only written translation is allowed
Correct answer: For short documents needed immediately during the encounter
Sight translation suits short, immediate needs, while lengthy or permanent documents should be translated in writing.
