Interpretation Limitations
Bao, a Southeast Asian 14-year-old, lay dying in the hospital of liver cancer. Her English skills were limited; her parents spoke no English. Her 17-year-old sister, Ly, served as interpreter. Because Ly wished to spare the feelings of her parents and sister, she withheld information. Neither the parents nor Bao knew that death was imminent, nor was the hospital staff aware that the patient and parents were unaware of Bao’s true condition.
In attempting to protect her loved ones, Ly alone carried the terrible burden of truth.
This is an extreme example of what may occur when youngsters in an immigrant family are given interpreting responsibilities. Family obligations may take precedence and interfere with or prevent medical intervention. Similarly, when a mother has her daughter describe gynecological symptoms to the doctor, modesty may alter the accuracy of the report.
The Pacific Asian Language Service provides free, trained interpreters for health care in 17 Asian languages and dialects. Call: (213) 553-1818.
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