Rx Medications: Toolkit List for ASL Interpreters Part One – A to F

Any Sign Language interpreter who has worked in the medical field knows that the discussion of medications is to be expected during virtually all medical assignments. They may be spouted off in a list by the Deaf client, or the medical staff, or they may be mentioned during the discussion of treatment. Either way, we all know what a challenge this may pose for the Sign Language interpreter to either voice the name of the medication, or to properly fingerspell. While we can always ask for this information to be repeated, or spelled letter by letter, it can be very helpful to have some base knowledge of common medications and their standard usages. 

Below is a handy list– from A to F –that can be used for reference, listing some of the most commonly prescribed medications (generic and/or brand names), and the ailments/conditions for which they are generally prescribed. Medications starting with letters G to Z will be included in Part Two of this blog. 

Even some base knowledge such as included in this list can help interpreters predict medications to be discussed, or process those that have been mentioned. Hopefully adding this list to your interpreter toolkit will be a great benefit.

Hopefully you find this list helpful in your interpreting endeavors! 

Stay tuned for Rx Medications: Toolkit List for ASL Interpreters, Part Two – G to Z

Please submit a comment below if you know of any other vital additions that you would like to see added to this list.

If you are an interpreter in the Southeast Florida area, interested in freelance work and have availability days, nights, or weekends, we have a variety of assignments throughout the community (medical appts., evening/overnight hospital shifts, day/evening college classes, school districts, legal, etc.). Please visit our website and submit our New Interpreter Questionnaire:

https://interpreterresource.com/freelance-interpreters/new-interpreter-questionnaire/