2: Interpreter Roles and Code of Ethics
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- 141116
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Chapter 2 — Learning Outcomes
By the end of this chapter, you will be able to:
• Describe the core professional roles of a healthcare interpreter
and recognize when each role applies within ethical boundaries.
• Explain the purpose of national healthcare interpreting codes of ethics
and how they guide conduct, decision-making, and communication.
• Identify and compare the major codes of ethics (NCIHC, IMIA, CHIA).
• Apply accuracy, completeness, and transparency to interpreted messages.
• Demonstrate understanding of impartiality and how bias affects communication.
• Explain confidentiality and HIPAA obligations for interpreters.
• Recognize the function of the National Code of Ethics for Healthcare Interpreters.
Sources referenced in this chapter: NCIHC Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice (public domain; reproduced or adapted “as is”); CHIA California Standards for Healthcare Interpreters (cited for educational reference); NSW Health Care Interpreter Services Guidelines (2014) (cited for educational reference). No affiliation implied.
Introduction
What is a code of ethics? A code of ethics:
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is a shared set of principles that guides professionals to act honestly and in the best interest of all stakeholders, including patients, families, providers, and interpreters.
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defines boundaries for acceptable professional behavior and helps prevent misconduct.
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states the profession’s core values and the standards of conduct members are expected to uphold.
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does not answer every specific dilemma, but points professionals to the principles they should weigh when deciding what to do.
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promotes consistency by clarifying expectations and professional boundaries.
Adapted in concept from the introductory materials in the NCIHC and CHIA codes. (NCIHC materials are public domain.)