NBCMI - National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters Managing the Interpreting Session Questions and Answers

Question 1

In a standard outpatient exam room, what is the generally recommended positioning for the medical interpreter to best facilitate direct communication between the patient and provider?

Accepted Answer

In a position that forms a triangle with the patient and provider, allowing for clear sightlines to both.

Answer

Directly behind the patient to avoid being a distraction.

Answer

Next to the provider, facing the patient, to form a clinical team.

Answer

Near the door to allow for a quick exit if the session becomes difficult.

Question 2

What is the primary purpose of conducting a pre-session (briefing) with the healthcare provider before an interpreting encounter begins?

Accepted Answer

To clarify the goal of the encounter, anticipate terminology, and establish ground rules for communication.

Answer

To establish a personal friendship with the provider.

Answer

To obtain the patient's full medical history directly from the provider.

Answer

To advocate for specific treatments on behalf of the patient.

Question 3

During an appointment for an elderly patient, their adult child repeatedly interrupts and answers questions on the patient's behalf. Which of the following is the most appropriate action for the interpreter to take?

Accepted Answer

Interpret everything said by all parties and, if the pattern persists, perform a strategic intervention to remind the provider to address the patient directly.

Answer

Interpret only what the adult child says since they are providing the answers.

Answer

Stop the session and insist that the adult child leave the room.

Answer

Ask the adult child to wait in the hallway and then summarize their points to the patient later.

Question 4

An interpreter is in a session where the provider explains a complex diagnosis. The patient turns to the interpreter and asks, "What would you do if you were me?" What is the interpreter's most professional response?

Accepted Answer

State that you cannot provide personal opinions or advice, and then interpret the patient's question for the provider.

Answer

Offer gentle, general advice based on common sense without being too specific.

Answer

Explain the provider's diagnosis again in simpler terms to help the patient decide.

Answer

Ignore the question and wait for the provider to continue speaking.

Question 5

After interpreting a provider's explanation of a medication's side effects, the interpreter notices the patient has a confused expression and seems hesitant. The interpreter suspects a lack of understanding. What is the most appropriate intervention?

Accepted Answer

Interpret the patient's non-verbal cue to the provider by stating, "The interpreter notes the patient appears confused," and then interpret the provider's response.

Answer

Re-explain the side effects using their own words until the patient seems to understand.

Answer

Ask the patient directly, "Do you understand?" and if they say yes, move on.

Answer

Give the patient a personal example to help them understand the side effects.

Question 6

Which of the following is the most appropriate reason for an interpreter to conduct a debriefing or post-session with a provider?

Accepted Answer

To address any communication challenges that arose and suggest strategies for future encounters.

Answer

To express personal opinions about the patient's decisions or lifestyle.

Answer

To ask the provider for a diagnosis to add to their personal notes for future sessions.

Answer

To schedule the patient's next appointment on behalf of the provider.