What does "sight translation" involve in medical interpreting?

Sight translation involves the oral translation of written documents from one language to another, which is important in medical settings where clinicians need immediate understanding of written information, such as consent forms or discharge instructions. This process requires interpreters to read and convey the text aloud in the target language, ensuring the intended meaning is preserved while facilitating effective communication between healthcare providers and patients. The ability to perform sight translation efficiently is crucial for interpreters, as it helps to bridge language barriers in real time, providing essential information quickly and accurately.

In this context, translating spoken communication is different from sight translation, which specifically deals with written texts. Similarly, while written translation focuses solely on producing a written equivalent in another language, sight translation emphasizes the spoken aspect. Lastly, performing translation without the patient's presence does not align with the principles of medical interpreting, as effective communication typically involves the patient. Therefore, understanding the specific definition and scope of sight translation is key for interpreters operating in healthcare environments.