Empowering healthcare interpreters: the role of training in reducing emotional strain

Professionals working in healthcare settings are often exposed to emotionally charged situations, which can negatively impact their well-being. However, few studies have focused on interpreters’ emotional strain, particularly in the field of healthcare interpreting. This study aims to examine the type of symptoms associated with vicarious trauma in healthcare interpreters in Spain and the United States, as well as the interpersonal and organizational strategies available to them to mitigate the effects. A questionnaire was distributed amongst 74 healthcare interpreters (42 in Spain and 32 in the US), all of whom had at least one year of experience. The survey included questions about their feelings and symptoms related to the emotional impact and the training they received to manage it. Results show differences in terms of training and access to strategies such as briefing, debriefing and institutional support that appear to be more prevalent in the US. Overall, training on managing emotional impact may act as a protective factor. However, it should be provided in conjunction with adequate interpersonal and organizational strategies. Therefore, structured support resources are recommended, especially in contexts such as the Spanish one, where there is still significant progress to be made towards professionalization.