American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM) Practice Exam 2025 – The All-In-One Guide to Master Your Certification!

The ideal positioning of an interpreter during a medical consultation is next to or slightly behind the patient. This arrangement facilitates effective communication by allowing the interpreter to hear both the patient and the physician clearly, minimizing the chances of misinterpretation. When the interpreter is positioned in this manner, the patient can maintain eye contact with both the physician and the interpreter, which fosters a sense of trust and engagement.

Having the interpreter in this position also helps ensure that the dialogue flows smoothly, as the interpreter can capture both verbal and non-verbal cues from the patient and physician, thus enhancing the overall understanding of the conversation. The proximity allows for easier adjustment of communication style and encourages an interactive environment where the patient feels more comfortable expressing themselves.

In contrast, sitting in front of the patient may distract them, as the patient may feel focused on the interpreter instead of being engaged with the physician. When placed on the opposite side of the room, the interpreter may struggle to hear and comprehend the conversation, leading to potential gaps in communication. Similarly, if the interpreter is positioned next to the physician, it may create a barrier for the patient, making them feel less included in the discussion. Overall, sitting next to or slightly behind the patient supports a collaborative and patient-centered approach to healthcare