In a typical interpreting session, the certified hearing interpreter is present for the communication between a Deaf or Hard of Hearing client and hearing service provider(s). Clear communication occurs and the goal of the treatment, procedure, or appointment is achieved. All parties involved are satisfied that effective communication took place, and the session is complete.
Sometimes there are factors that create a barrier to effective communication and additional support or advocacy is required. A patient who has limited language skills, uses a foreign sign language that is not ASL, uses unique or non-standard signs that are not recognized by a hearing interpreter, or exhibits other factors that render the hearing interpreter unable to effectively interpret can all be reasons to include a Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI) in the interpreting environment.
In the event a hearing interpreter cannot effectively provide services, they may suggest the inclusion of a CDI. A hearing interpreter working in tandem with a Deaf interpreter can provide a more accurate and effective interpretation, minimizing the risk of error, reaching optimal understanding and resulting in a successful session.
A CDI can be a valuable team member for a number of reasons: linguistic or cultural experience that the hearing interpreter does not possess, and specialized training in the use of props, drawings, and gestures may further support the interpretation. A CDI is a native signer who is able to interpret in a way that a non-native hearing interpreter may not.
Certified interpreters are bound by the Code of Professional Conduct (CPC) as set forth by our governing bodies, RID and NAD. The following tenets of the code guide us when making a request for the addition of a CDI:
2.4: Request support when needed to fully convey the message or to address exceptional communication challenges (eg. cognitive disabilities, foreign sign language, emerging language ability, or lack of formal instruction or language.)
3.1: Consult with appropriate persons regarding the interpreting situation to determine issues such as placement and adaptations necessary to interpret effectively.
6:3: Promote conditions that are conducive to effective communication, inform the parties involved if such conditions do not exist, and seek appropriate remedies
A discerning interpreter can recommend the addition of a CDI in these types of situations, in order to uphold their adherence to the Professional Code of Conduct and to ensure a successful interpretation.
When a hearing interpreter is unable to provide effective interpreting, there are risks present in the situation. There is a risk to the patient, who may not understand what is being communicated and negative health consequences may occur. There is a risk to the healthcare provider, who may later receive complaints that their instructions weren’t effectively communicated. There is a risk to the interpreter, who may be held liable for ineffective communication or errors, and there is a risk to our company, ULS, who may ultimately lose business if customers don’t feel satisfied.
Pairing our hearing interpreters with a CDI in certain instances is one way to continue to ensure our best quality interpretation services for the clients we serve.
Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) Standard Practice Paper, Use of a Certified Deaf Interpreter, and NAD-RID Code of Professional Conduct
To become a Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI), an individual must go through a comprehensive certification process. This includes undertaking specialized training in American Sign Language (ASL) and Deaf culture, accumulating practical interpreting experience, and passing a certification examination. The Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) offers certification for CDIs, which validates their proficiency in interpreting, especially in complex or nuanced communication situations.
A Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI) possesses specialized training that distinguishes them from hearing interpreters. This training encompasses deep knowledge of Deaf culture, mastery of American Sign Language (ASL), and techniques for translating abstract concepts into visual forms. CDIs are trained to use gestures, props, and drawings to facilitate understanding, making them particularly adept at working with individuals who have unique language processing needs, such as those who are Deaf-Blind or have limited language exposure.
CDIs are considered necessary in various critical situations to ensure accurate and effective communication. For instance, in legal, medical, and emergency settings, the precise understanding and conveyance of information are crucial, and a CDI’s expertise in navigating cultural and linguistic nuances can be indispensable. They play a key role in situations where Deaf individuals might use non-standard ASL or come from backgrounds where ASL is not their first language, bridging communication gaps that might otherwise lead to misunderstandings.
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