Using interpreters in palliative care

Many patients with palliative care needs do not speak English as a first language, and language differences may cause a lack of understanding and compromise treatment. An interpreter may be needed for consultations.

When using an interpreter in palliative care, healthcare professionals should be aware of the following:

• Interpreters working in palliative care may experience a significant emotional burden.
• Discussion with the interpreter before and after the interpreting session can help. Interpreters from small language groups often know the patient or family personally, which can complicate interpreting.
• There may be no direct translation for some words used in palliative care (eg the term ‘palliative care’); these may need explanation.
• Some cultural groups are reluctant to acknowledge a lack of understanding; it is important to check the understanding or interpretation of what is said.

For general information on considerations when using interpreters, see the RACGP guide for clinicians working with interpreters in healthcare settings.

Avoid using family members as interpreters if possible because it may be a significant burden, particularly if the interpreter is a child or adolescent who may not understand medical terminology or complex emotional issues. It may not be appropriate for a particular family member to hear the information being discussed. Cultural values and preferences, inconsistencies between languages, or filtering of information may lead to misinterpretation, which is less likely to occur with a professional interpreter.

The Australian Government and some state and territory governments provide interpreting services; healthcare professionals should be aware of the services available in their local area or healthcare service.