While you were in school you probably remember your Professors informing you to study for your exams and make certain you use the testing strategies they provided you. Some of these strategies were strategies that one could use to take any form of academic exam. However, do these strategies work for taking oral exams? Well, in my opinion they do.
After taking the Oral CHI exam, the second part of the National Certification for Interpreters, I figured out that some of these old testing strategies could help an examinee get through the exam faster. However, in the end pure knowledge is the only thing that can garantee you a passing grade. Lets look at several of these strategies as they apply to the CHI oral exam.
Lets first discuss the instructions. As with any exam I recommend that you read through the instructions for the exam carefully and completely. Don't forget that it will provide a framework and understanding of the test. Also, a sample exam is provided and it does not take any time away from the actual test time. So please take the sample test completely. It will warm you up for the actual exam.
Once you start the oral exam you have one hour to complete it. I found that during the scenarios you must record your interpretations. In addition, you are provided about ten seconds to record your responses. However, for some of your responses you don't require the whole ten seconds. Thus. I recommend that after recording your response complete the response by stopping your recorder. This strategy will get you to the next dialogue faster and save you time on the overall clock which you can use for more difficult dialogue for which you may need more time to play over, listen to it again. Another strategy I found useful was during the translation of several phrases you are requested to distinguish which option is the best translation. I found that reading the first phrase then reading each first phrase of answer A, or B, followed by reading the second, then reading the second option in A or B, and sofourth untill you find one error or poorly used word in the translated choices was a simpler approach. If the error is found in B your answer is A and vise versa. This will get you to your answer faster than trying to read the whole document then trying to determine which is the best translation by reading all of A then B. (process or elimination)
Now, prior to taking the exam or in preparation for your oral test I suggest you get plenty or rest the night before and have a good breakfast that morning followed by a cup of coffee to keep you alert. Give yourself an extra 1.5 hours over the usual travel time so the you can find parking. Once parked review some vocabulary and read a couple of scenarios out of your training manual. This will help to remind you of some of the more difficult or lesser used terminology, as well as, warm you up for the scenarios prior to taking the oral exam.
Finally, I believe you should be ready. So don't be nervous, you'll be speaking into a recorder not a live human like at your job. This is much easier to do. Be confident and go for it!! Good fortune.
01 May, 2013
Interpreters Raise the Cost of Prosecutions.
At A Glance
Interpreting JusticeThe Arkansas Administrative Office of the Courts provides interpreting services for individuals who have a limited ability to understand English, are deaf or hard of hearing, or are unable to speak. The office is charged by law and Arkansas Supreme Court with certifying foreign language interpreters for individuals or witnesses with limited English proficiency who appear in the state and local courts. The office provides interpreting services during court proceedings or directly related actions. The office maintains a registry of certified court interpreters who may be contracted directly by attorneys, law enforcement officers, jail officials, other state agency employees, social workers or mental health workers for interpreting services.
Source: Arkansas Administrative Office Of The Courts
I will be providing industry specific articles for my readers, like the one above for the purpose of keeping ourselves informed. Enjoy!, and provide comments please.
27 April, 2013
CHI National Certification Oral Exam.
Well, I have been away from the blog busy with work and a bit of studying for the CHI oral exam. Let me tell you guys that I felt good about the exam and how I performed. However, thats not a garantee that I will passed. If its the will of God I will receive some good news in several weeks. I'll surely let you you know the results.
Let me recommend that you review your vocabulary from any Interpreter trainings you have completed. Furthermore, practice the role plays in the back of each chapter. Finally, look at hospital admissions documents, discharge instructions, etc., all in Spanish. Make certain that you are familiar with the legal E's used. Do this and you should do well.
Don't forget to take the sample test before starting the actual. This will help you get in the zone.
So, Get Certified!!
Let me recommend that you review your vocabulary from any Interpreter trainings you have completed. Furthermore, practice the role plays in the back of each chapter. Finally, look at hospital admissions documents, discharge instructions, etc., all in Spanish. Make certain that you are familiar with the legal E's used. Do this and you should do well.
Don't forget to take the sample test before starting the actual. This will help you get in the zone.
So, Get Certified!!
19 February, 2013
The "CIFE"
One of the first things one learns when they are training as an interpreter is the CIFE. This acronym is an important part of the interpretation process. It is the first opportunity for an interpreter to establish his or her role in the triadic relationship.
When a interpreter walks into a patients room with a provider the first thing he or she must do is to set the stage. A brief introduction of himself to the patient and provider. The following is what it should sound like.
Hello, my name is____________ I'm a medical interpreter and will be interpreting for you and Dr.__________. Let me take a moment to review some important information prior to starting. This will only take a minute or two.
Every thing that is said will "CONFIDENTIAL".
In order to control the "flow" I will use the T sign if I or the patient have a question or need clarification
I will be speaking in 'First person"
"Everything" will be interpreted
This is repeated to the provider as well. The the session can begin. This is how to properly set the stage. When the interpretation ends check in with both parties to see if they require something else from you prior to departing. Thank both provider and patient alike.
If you are an interpreter and use this you will see that it has great benefit in establishing yourself in the Triadic Relationship and controlling the flow of the dialogue between patient and provider.
TRY IT!!
When a interpreter walks into a patients room with a provider the first thing he or she must do is to set the stage. A brief introduction of himself to the patient and provider. The following is what it should sound like.
Hello, my name is____________ I'm a medical interpreter and will be interpreting for you and Dr.__________. Let me take a moment to review some important information prior to starting. This will only take a minute or two.
Every thing that is said will "CONFIDENTIAL".
In order to control the "flow" I will use the T sign if I or the patient have a question or need clarification
I will be speaking in 'First person"
"Everything" will be interpreted
"This Previously stated has not been wrtten in it usual sequence"
This is repeated to the provider as well. The the session can begin. This is how to properly set the stage. When the interpretation ends check in with both parties to see if they require something else from you prior to departing. Thank both provider and patient alike.
If you are an interpreter and use this you will see that it has great benefit in establishing yourself in the Triadic Relationship and controlling the flow of the dialogue between patient and provider.
TRY IT!!
07 February, 2013
Preparing for National Certification Oral Exam
It is now time to prepare for the National Certification Exam, part II, Oral Exam. The strategy that I will use is not a proven one, but one that I believe will prove to serve me well. If successful, and I'm almost certain it will, then maybe others will benefit from it.
Now lets review the steps. First I will review each of the body systems medical terminology making sure to say each word in English then in Spanish. Afterward, a review of medical terminology only in the target language using YouTube Video presentations in medical terminology. Furthermore, I will take several hospital documents, located via internet search and attempt to perform a visual translation of the documents. Moreover, I will make certain that these documents include discharge instructions, admission questions, insurance payment authorizations, etc. Lastly, practice sessions of oral interpretation with a partner reading dialogue that I will then interpret. This should suffice.
The materials will be divided into segments as follows;
15 min = terminology
15 min = oral translation
15 min = simultaneous interpretation
15 min = consecutive interpretation
The purpose of the aforementioned is to make sure that a review of as many of the possible topics, that will be covered on the oral exam, are included in my practice sessions. In addition, the use of actual hospital documents will insure that the practice is as close to real life as possible. Lastly, equal time segments will insure that a balance amount of materials is covered.
Thus, when I pass the National Certification Exam Oral Section I will post whether or not I passed.
WISH ME LUCK!!!
Now lets review the steps. First I will review each of the body systems medical terminology making sure to say each word in English then in Spanish. Afterward, a review of medical terminology only in the target language using YouTube Video presentations in medical terminology. Furthermore, I will take several hospital documents, located via internet search and attempt to perform a visual translation of the documents. Moreover, I will make certain that these documents include discharge instructions, admission questions, insurance payment authorizations, etc. Lastly, practice sessions of oral interpretation with a partner reading dialogue that I will then interpret. This should suffice.
The materials will be divided into segments as follows;
15 min = terminology
15 min = oral translation
15 min = simultaneous interpretation
15 min = consecutive interpretation
The purpose of the aforementioned is to make sure that a review of as many of the possible topics, that will be covered on the oral exam, are included in my practice sessions. In addition, the use of actual hospital documents will insure that the practice is as close to real life as possible. Lastly, equal time segments will insure that a balance amount of materials is covered.
Thus, when I pass the National Certification Exam Oral Section I will post whether or not I passed.
WISH ME LUCK!!!
01 February, 2013
Interpreter Team Cohesiveness
Interpreters must multitask throughout the work day while interacting with colleagues and assisting oneanother daily. Many times they work in close and cramped quarters. Also, they face a whole host of stressors both in and out of work. Despite the many challenges they may face one thing is certain, they must have a cohesive team and enjoy their job in order to perform at their best. There are factors that can damage the cohesiveness of your interpreter team.
The cohesion of the interpreter team can be damaged when individuals in the team lack consideration for other team members. This can manifest itself in some very simple yet not so obvious ways. For instance, one team member does not have the same sense of urgency as others. Furthermore, one member may have a sense of entitlement and not respect their team members. Moreover, one member may have too much on their plate and not be able to fullfill the requirements of their position, and other team members must pick up the slack. Yet they continue to be merited with completion of the work they did not perform. This team member may ignore work that needs to be done so that team members must fill the void by taking on the added work. The team member may me arrogant in some mannarisms, or even moody. He or she may think that what is assigned for he or she to do is more important than what other team members have to do. Or the team member in question may simply be lazy. All of these scenarios can hurt the team cohesion and the trust that goes with it. Ultimately, your hard work to build a strong team may go down the tubes.
The aforementioned can be complicated by a manager who tends to overlook these issues for the sake of not creating friction or simply avoiding having to have the difficult conversation to correct matters before they get too far gone. Or simply a manager may lack the wisdom to be able to acknowledge the fact that one team member may be taking advantage of the rest of the team.
How can we as managers embark on a process to keep our interpreter team working harmoniously toward the ultimate goal of the organization, to provide interpretation and support to medical staff and patients alike? How do we insure that the team we organized continue to work well together?
The answer to these two questions is very simple. Managers must create an environment where interpreters can freely voice their opinions, provide suggestions, be creative, and even express their grievances. Use the tool of assigment and accountability to insure that all members of the team are performing and completing duties that have been assigned to them. Create opportiunities for your team to share some time together outside or inside of work. Do not allow any member who may be tired due to extracurricular activities to affect the team negatively. Hold all team members accountable. Don't forget that a manager must hold everyone to the same standards. Don't use your team members to perform anothers' duties, while not holding the deficient member accoutable. Do not favor one team member over another. Do not exploit those who work hard and allow those that don't to underperform. This sends the wrong messsage to your team and they may lose their confidence and respect for your abilities as a leader. If you make allowances for one, remember you must do the same for the others. Remember to reward hard work appropriately and in direct correlation to the work performed. Hold meetings that include the whole team when possible and always provide all members with the results and decisions reached at meetings.
We can continue to make suggestions regarding how to properly address situations that destrroy team cohesiveness. The simple truth is that we must be proactive and not reactive when something disrupts team dynamics. In other words level the playing field for all. Finally, live by these three words; fair, firm, consistent, they will almost insure your success in maintaining team cohesivenes and team member retention.
I will write more on this topic later
The cohesion of the interpreter team can be damaged when individuals in the team lack consideration for other team members. This can manifest itself in some very simple yet not so obvious ways. For instance, one team member does not have the same sense of urgency as others. Furthermore, one member may have a sense of entitlement and not respect their team members. Moreover, one member may have too much on their plate and not be able to fullfill the requirements of their position, and other team members must pick up the slack. Yet they continue to be merited with completion of the work they did not perform. This team member may ignore work that needs to be done so that team members must fill the void by taking on the added work. The team member may me arrogant in some mannarisms, or even moody. He or she may think that what is assigned for he or she to do is more important than what other team members have to do. Or the team member in question may simply be lazy. All of these scenarios can hurt the team cohesion and the trust that goes with it. Ultimately, your hard work to build a strong team may go down the tubes.
The aforementioned can be complicated by a manager who tends to overlook these issues for the sake of not creating friction or simply avoiding having to have the difficult conversation to correct matters before they get too far gone. Or simply a manager may lack the wisdom to be able to acknowledge the fact that one team member may be taking advantage of the rest of the team.
How can we as managers embark on a process to keep our interpreter team working harmoniously toward the ultimate goal of the organization, to provide interpretation and support to medical staff and patients alike? How do we insure that the team we organized continue to work well together?
The answer to these two questions is very simple. Managers must create an environment where interpreters can freely voice their opinions, provide suggestions, be creative, and even express their grievances. Use the tool of assigment and accountability to insure that all members of the team are performing and completing duties that have been assigned to them. Create opportiunities for your team to share some time together outside or inside of work. Do not allow any member who may be tired due to extracurricular activities to affect the team negatively. Hold all team members accountable. Don't forget that a manager must hold everyone to the same standards. Don't use your team members to perform anothers' duties, while not holding the deficient member accoutable. Do not favor one team member over another. Do not exploit those who work hard and allow those that don't to underperform. This sends the wrong messsage to your team and they may lose their confidence and respect for your abilities as a leader. If you make allowances for one, remember you must do the same for the others. Remember to reward hard work appropriately and in direct correlation to the work performed. Hold meetings that include the whole team when possible and always provide all members with the results and decisions reached at meetings.
We can continue to make suggestions regarding how to properly address situations that destrroy team cohesiveness. The simple truth is that we must be proactive and not reactive when something disrupts team dynamics. In other words level the playing field for all. Finally, live by these three words; fair, firm, consistent, they will almost insure your success in maintaining team cohesivenes and team member retention.
I will write more on this topic later
05 December, 2012
Training Interpreters The Training Manual
One of the most valuable components of a well defined training strategy is the training manual. Managers in industries across the board have used this instrument as part of a multipronged approach to training employees. However, there seems to be a lack of such an instrument in preparing interpreters for their roles in the health care setting.
Yes, Interpreters are trained in the role they play as part of a service being provided to patients as a matter of their rights to access Health Care Services. We learn the terminology, the applicable laws, code of ethics, must be certified, and more. However, the one missing link is a manual that defines the particular functions that the interpreter will have to perform once on the job. Please keep in mind that interpreters are required to track and record their activities. In addition, they are required to place certain types of calls that require they follow a prescribed script and vernacular. Furthermore, there are a whole host of office functions they must familiarize themselves with and perform, among these is the use of certain software.
In many interpreter offices there is usually a person or two who have a great handle on the particular tasks performed on a daily basis. They are usually charged with the specific task of imparting that knowledge to the novice. This works well most of the time. However, imagine if a training manual existed for a professional interpreter to walk into a training situation and it complement their learning.
The challenge is in the varying responsibilities of intrepreters in this industry. Apart from the actual function of how to perform an interpretation, the onsite functions actually differ. This is because not all hospitals are using the same methods for capturing data and performing specific functions. There is a difference in software, remote video, equipment, and more. Thus, a generic manual would be impractical.
The only way to resolve this issue is to impart to every hospital Interpreter Services Coordinator or Manager the responsibility to write a training manual specific to their environment. This will provide a framework for training and reference not currently in existence. Moreover, it formalizes the inhouse training process and provides management at all levels with a tool that can be referred to and revised when needed. Finally, it addresses the lack of inhouse training materials for interpreters to refer to when in doubt about how a particular function should be performed.
Hopefully our industry and profession will have the foresight to see the value in such an instrument and begin to take some action. Healthcare organizations need not look too far for someone among their ranks that has the experience and knowledge necessary to write a training manual. The benefits of a well written revisable training manual are many. Look for the benefits in future post.
Yes, Interpreters are trained in the role they play as part of a service being provided to patients as a matter of their rights to access Health Care Services. We learn the terminology, the applicable laws, code of ethics, must be certified, and more. However, the one missing link is a manual that defines the particular functions that the interpreter will have to perform once on the job. Please keep in mind that interpreters are required to track and record their activities. In addition, they are required to place certain types of calls that require they follow a prescribed script and vernacular. Furthermore, there are a whole host of office functions they must familiarize themselves with and perform, among these is the use of certain software.
In many interpreter offices there is usually a person or two who have a great handle on the particular tasks performed on a daily basis. They are usually charged with the specific task of imparting that knowledge to the novice. This works well most of the time. However, imagine if a training manual existed for a professional interpreter to walk into a training situation and it complement their learning.
The challenge is in the varying responsibilities of intrepreters in this industry. Apart from the actual function of how to perform an interpretation, the onsite functions actually differ. This is because not all hospitals are using the same methods for capturing data and performing specific functions. There is a difference in software, remote video, equipment, and more. Thus, a generic manual would be impractical.
The only way to resolve this issue is to impart to every hospital Interpreter Services Coordinator or Manager the responsibility to write a training manual specific to their environment. This will provide a framework for training and reference not currently in existence. Moreover, it formalizes the inhouse training process and provides management at all levels with a tool that can be referred to and revised when needed. Finally, it addresses the lack of inhouse training materials for interpreters to refer to when in doubt about how a particular function should be performed.
Hopefully our industry and profession will have the foresight to see the value in such an instrument and begin to take some action. Healthcare organizations need not look too far for someone among their ranks that has the experience and knowledge necessary to write a training manual. The benefits of a well written revisable training manual are many. Look for the benefits in future post.
Technology and the Medical Interpreter
Technology is changing rapidly all over the world. In the industrialized nations the change is even greater. This of course has an effect on all of society. Businesses must subscribe to and upgrade their technologies almost as rapidly as the changes take place. The healthcare industry is no different. Furthermore, individuals within the industry must consistently upgrade their knowledge and skills if they are to compete and remain competitive as employees.
The same is true of the medical interpreter. We must rise to the challenges of increased demand for our time and creativity. If we do not subscribe to the idea of constant learning we will eventually be left behind. As technological changes take place in our workplaces we must demonstrate to our employers that we are up to the challenge of learning and creating new methods for performing our responsibilities while adapting to and creating new ways to use technologies to produce qualitative outcomes that provide a great benefit to both the employer and employee.
In short, the medical interpreter today is much more than just a medical interpreter. He is an administrative support staff member that must manage many aspects of the daily functions of the interpreter services office. however, in order to participate in this environment one must learn the new technologies and its different uses. Furthermore, he/she must combine this knowledge and determine what changes can be instituted that would make there jobs more flexible, productive, and necessary. In other words the medical interpreter of today must constantly be looking for ways to quantify and track performance through the use of technologies.
So if you want to be part of the changes taking place in the healthcare industry make sure that you are willing to learn and use the newly acquired skills to produce for your employer in a way that is second to none. Only the knowledgeable and creative will be able to compete in this new environment of rapid technological change in healthcare.
The same is true of the medical interpreter. We must rise to the challenges of increased demand for our time and creativity. If we do not subscribe to the idea of constant learning we will eventually be left behind. As technological changes take place in our workplaces we must demonstrate to our employers that we are up to the challenge of learning and creating new methods for performing our responsibilities while adapting to and creating new ways to use technologies to produce qualitative outcomes that provide a great benefit to both the employer and employee.
In short, the medical interpreter today is much more than just a medical interpreter. He is an administrative support staff member that must manage many aspects of the daily functions of the interpreter services office. however, in order to participate in this environment one must learn the new technologies and its different uses. Furthermore, he/she must combine this knowledge and determine what changes can be instituted that would make there jobs more flexible, productive, and necessary. In other words the medical interpreter of today must constantly be looking for ways to quantify and track performance through the use of technologies.
So if you want to be part of the changes taking place in the healthcare industry make sure that you are willing to learn and use the newly acquired skills to produce for your employer in a way that is second to none. Only the knowledgeable and creative will be able to compete in this new environment of rapid technological change in healthcare.
18 November, 2012
The Digestive System
Medical Interpreters must constantly test their knowledge. Also, they must gain additional knowledge in order to improve the quality of their performance on the job. Many medical interpreters utilize already published and existing materials in order to achieve this goal. This requires time, effort and lots of reading. In addition, one must always quiz and test ones' knowledge in order to keep it banked in ones' memory.
Here is a short quiz regarding the digestive system. Take the quiz, see how you do, and review areas that you don't quite know. This method of learning will help you to retain and reinforce your newly gained knowledge. Have Fun!!
If you do well then you are well on your way to becoming a proficient medical interpreter. I will post these quizzes from time to time.
03 November, 2012
National Certification Exam for Interpreters
So, you have been thinking of taking the national certification exam for interpreters. However, you fear failing the exam? Don't worry yourself. If you have been interpreting for at least one year, have a good handle on the meanings of medical terms, are familiar with the Code of Ethics and the National Standards of Practice, you will do well.
Here's some advise. When preparing for the written portion of the exam make sure that you understand your responsibilities as an interpreter. In addition, have someone create situations that can arise in the context of interpreting and ask you how you would handle these in reference to the Standards of Practice. The more complex the scenario the better.
When it comes to the vocabulary you might want to familiarize yourself with the body systems and what each system does. Also, focus on what some of the functions of the major organs and glands. Know the meanings of medical terms commonly used in the medical setting.
You may have already taken exams where you were asked ' what is the function of the pancreas?" or a similar question. These are the types of questions that you will be asked on the National Certification Written Exam. There are no trick questions.
Finally, register, pay the fee, schedule the exam, and go for it. Before you know it, it will be over and you will be one step closer to being Nationally Certified as an Interpreter.
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