Dealing with difficult interpreting situations
How do I ensure clear communication between the patient and the professional when there is conflicting information?
Explain your role clearly to all parties.
Set clear expectations from the outset and explain that everything that is said/ signed will be interpreted.
Inform the healthcare professional of all relevant information
How should I ensure only necessary information is communicated and avoid upsetting patients, family or professionals?
Set clear expectations with both the client and the patient from the beginning.
Make it clear that if they do not want something interpreted, it should not be shared at all.
For BSL bookings, remind healthcare professionals that if people are speaking, the patient will expect it to be interpreted as they will want to know what is being communicated.
What should I do when service users do not want me to interpret what they are saying?
As part of your introduction, always inform the service user that you must interpret everything that they
say.
Set this expectation every time so they do not say anything they don’t want to be interpreted.
Try to build a good rapport with the client/staff members, this way if there are any issues they may be able to support you.
Maintain a calm and professional demeanour.
How do I dealing with difficult and highly emotional bookings?
Set clear boundaries and expectations. If you feel uncomfortable make this known and call Prestige.
Have something to listen to or read on the way home from the booking, for example, a book or an audiobook.
Listen to some calming music after stressful sessions
Find someone to speak to about what you felt during the booking. Maintain confidentiality and privacy,
always keeping things anonymous.
Call Prestige Network to debrief if you need to. We are always happy to listen.
Attend wellbeing sessions
