Introduction
Medical interpreting means navigating a whole new language: anatomy, diagnoses, medications, procedures — all in two languages. In this blog, we’ll look at 10 essential medical terms you must know to deliver accurate interpretation and prevent critical mistakes.
1. Diagnosis
Meaning: Identification of a disease
Spanish: Diagnóstico
Example: “The diagnosis is Type 2 diabetes.”
2. Prescription
Meaning: A doctor’s written order for medication
Spanish: Receta médica
Example: “You must take this prescription twice daily.”
3. Allergy
Meaning: Immune system reaction to a substance
Spanish: Alergia
Example: “She has a penicillin allergy.”
4. Anesthesia
Meaning: Medicine that numbs pain or induces sleep during procedures
Spanish: Anestesia
Example: “The surgery will require general anesthesia.”
5. Hypertension
Meaning: High blood pressure
Spanish: Hipertensión
Example: “Hypertension must be monitored closely.”
6. Biopsy
Meaning: The removal of tissue for diagnostic examination
Spanish: Biopsia
Example: “A biopsy was performed on the growth.”
7. IV (Intravenous)
Meaning: Medicine or fluids administered into a vein
Spanish: Intravenoso
Example: “The patient is on IV antibiotics.”
8. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
Meaning: A diagnostic scan using magnetic fields
Spanish: Imagen de resonancia magnética
Example: “The doctor ordered an MRI of the spine.”
9. Chronic
Meaning: Long-term condition
Spanish: Crónico
Example: “Chronic back pain requires physical therapy.”
10. Consent Form
Meaning: Document signed before treatment to confirm understanding
Spanish: Formulario de consentimiento
Example: “Please sign this consent form before surgery.”
Tips to Learn Medical Terms
- Practice with flashcards
- Watch bilingual health videos
- Review your Medical Interpreting 101 textbook
- Use vocabulary in mock interpreting sessions
Final Thoughts
Accurate vocabulary saves lives. Every term you learn adds confidence to your performance. The better your medical language, the stronger your voice in the room — for both patient and provider.
