Which type of notes may an interpreter keep to support memory, and what must remain confidential?

• A. Full PHI notes for memory.
• B. Secret personal notes stored insecurely.
• C. Brief, non-identifying memory aids for recall; do not retain or disclose sensitive PHI; store any notes securely and in accordance with policy.
• D. No notes allowed.

Answer: (C)

Interpreters may use brief, non-identifying memory aids to support recall during a session. The key is that these aids help you remember without exposing patient information. You might keep small, generic cues or reminders that don’t reveal who the patient is or any health details—anything that could identify a patient or their medical data must not be included.

What must stay confidential is any sensitive health information (PHI). You should not retain or disclose PHI in your notes, and you must store any memory aids securely and in accordance with policy. After the encounter, follow the agency’s procedures for disposing of or securely storing notes, ensuring no PHI is accessible to others.

Why the other options don’t fit: keeping full PHI notes would breach privacy and policy; secret personal notes stored insecurely are vulnerable to disclosure; and having no notes would deprive you of a helpful memory aid. The correct approach balances practical memory support with strict confidentiality.