What is a key principle for interpreters when facilitating discussions about goals of care and advanced directives?

• A. Accurately convey options and questions, respect patient autonomy, avoid guiding decisions, and verify understanding of goals and directives.
• B. Translate only literally without explaining any concept.
• C. Lead the patient toward the family's preferred option.
• D. Encourage the patient to defer decisions until a later time.

Answer: (A)

Neutrality and respect for patient autonomy guide interpreters in conversations about goals of care and advance directives. The best practice is to accurately convey all options and the questions clinicians raise, reflect the patient’s values, and verify that the patient understands what each option means and what directives imply. The interpreter should avoid steering the decision, offering opinions, or nudging toward a particular choice, focusing instead on clear, faithful translation and confirming comprehension—often through a teach-back or asking the patient to restate what they understood. This ensures the patient can participate meaningfully in informed decision-making, with their preferences guiding the care plan. Translating only literally without clarifying medical concepts can leave important details murky, and that undermines informed consent. Encouraging the patient to defer decisions removes the patient’s opportunity to exercise control over their care.