Do interpreters have to interpret everything exactly as stated?

• A. Yes, you must interpret everything exactly as stated
• B. No, only the essential parts should be interpreted
• C. Only if the speaker asks for verbatim interpretation
• D. Only in medical settings

Answer: (A)

Interpreters must convey the speaker’s message faithfully and completely, without adding or omitting content. In health care, every detail matters for patient safety, accuracy of information, and informed decision-making, so nothing essential should be left out or changed. If something is skipped or altered, critical instructions, risks, or questions may be misunderstood, leading to harm or miscommunication. The goal is to reproduce both the words and their meaning as closely as possible, so the patient and clinician share the same understanding. While natural flow or minor hesitations may be managed for readability, the substantive content—the facts, instructions, and cautions—should be interpreted exactly as stated to preserve accuracy. Other approaches that endorse partial interpretation or selective rendering conflict with the standard of complete, faithful interpretation across settings.