• Take advantage of the course syllabus to know which topics will be covered, test times, if videotapes will be shown, etc.
• If videotapes will be shown make arrangements with the instructor ahead of time. Ask if the video is captioned (does the video box have a "cc" or a TV symbol - some hearing consumers might not be aware of this), is there a script, or is previewing an option.
• If a poem or passage will be read during class ask for a copy ahead of time. If needed, have the instructor read at a slower pace.
• Explain to instructor how specific descriptions are more beneficial to the interpretation than, for example, saying, "this thing or that thing."
• Explain to instructors that pauses help the Deaf student benefit from both the visual aid and lecture.

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• Discuss the assignment before it starts so that all expectations are clear.
• If an issue or concern comes up between team interpreters be clear and discuss it in an objective manner.
• Approach the person as soon as possible after the incident.
• Ask for clarification to understand the other interpreter's perspective.
• Share information and new/different perspectives with each other.
• Work to resolve the issue. Try to reach consensus on how the issue can be handled differently in the future.
• If other interpreters are scheduled for the continuation of an assignment at a different time, keep them informed of new information or plans.

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• Ideas on how to prepare:
  • Find out the illness/injury you will be interpreting for and read up on that area.
  • Check web sites.
  • Get a book that describes and shows pictures of medications.
  • Use a medical sign language dictionary as a reference.
  • Take advantage of visual aids that will assist you in creating a visual picture.
• Arrive early to check in.
• Introduce yourself to doctors and nurses to clarify your role.
• Find a location that isn't imposing but still allows the consumer access to communication.
• Ask the consumer if he or she prefers you to wait with them in the exam room or outside of the room.
• Give the patient privacy by using an eye gaze shift and/or positioning yourself so as not to embarrass the patient.
• If in a hospital setting, be aware of sterile fields so as not to contaminate the area.
• When handling interpretation involving medications ask for:
  • Spelling
  • What it is for
  • What it looks like, color
  • Directions for taking

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• American Sign Language Medical Dictionary
  by Elaine Costello
• Deaf in America: Voices from a Culture
  by Carol Padden and Tom Humphries
• Encounters With Reality: 1001 Interpreter Scenarios
  by Brenda Cartwright, 1999 RID Press
• Sign Language Interpreting: Exploring its Art and Science
  by David Stewart, Jerome Schein, and Brenda Cartwright
• The Art of Interpretation
  by Borden

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