11. Scope Of Practice

Principle

Healthcare interpreters maintain fidelity to the ethical principles and values established by our profession.

Objective

To empower Interpreters to fulfill their ethical and professional responsibilities without taking on responsibilities that belong to others.

Description

Scope of Practice refers to all the social and linguistic responsibilities interpreters are expected to be able to perform appropriately and skillfully in support of the profession’s values and the goals of the encounter. The scope of practice also describes what anyone partnering with an interpreter should be able to expect.

Standards of Practice

11.1 Interpreters understand the range of behaviors and actions that can and should be expected of them in their practice of the profession, as well as which actions are outside the scope of practice of an interpreter. 11.2 Interpreters respect the expertise, autonomy, rights, and responsibilities of each participant in the encounter., 11.3 Interpreters practice professional discretion and consider the potential consequences of their decisions. 11.4 Interpreters make clear for participants what to expect of interpreters working within their scope of practice. 11.5 Interpreters engage with others in a polite, caring, and professionally appropriate manner without becoming personally overinvolved.