With the increasing number of global clinical trials being carried out in the medical field, accurate clinical trial translations are of utmost importance. Medical terms are some of the most challenging words to translate between languages, which is why professional translation services are needed.
Another consideration is that clinical trials are governed by very specific regulations in order to be valid. If there is any confusion or misunderstanding in the process it could compromise the validity of the trial, which has significant repercussions.
Translation services for clinical research are crucial to a successful global trial. Here’s how professional translators can help.
Translation of Clinical Trial Documents
Documentation is a big part of any clinical trial. There are documents to explain the procedure for the trial, documents that participants sign to legalize their participation, documents to record information during the trial, and documents to conclude the results. With so much paperwork involved, accurate translation of these documents is crucial.
Translation services employ translators with specific skill sets to translate clinical trial documents. Many translators have a background in the medical field and are fluent in multiple languages, making them uniquely qualified for medical document translations. In some cases, translators work as a team so that their combined knowledge can more effectively translate documents.
Interpretation for Participant Understanding
Face to face interpretation is sometimes required in global clinical trials. Participants need to have a thorough understanding of the requirements and the risks of participating in the trial before signing their consent. Discrepancies in translation could cause a serious misunderstanding that could negatively impact the trial.
There are a few different types of face to face interpretation:
Simultaneous
This type of interpretation requires the interpreter to translate what is being said on pace with the speaker. Both the speaker and the interpreter will be talking at the same time.
Consecutive
This type allows the interpreter time to translate what was said in chunks. The speaker pauses every so often to allow the interpreter to repeat what they said in the translated language.
Whispered
This is similar to simultaneous interpreting, except that the interpreter whispers the translation of the speaker’s words right in their ear as it is being said.
Liaison
When multiple languages need to be translated, a liaison interpreter may translate all sides of a conversation.
Any of these interpreting strategies may be used in a clinical trial between the medical personnel and the participant to ensure understanding by all parties involved.
Provide Quality of Translation Under Time Constraints
One challenge when it comes to clinical trial translations is the time constraints that are often applied to a trial. In order for a trial to be valid, it must be carried out within a specific period of time. This is why experienced, professional translators are needed at all stages of the trial for various purposes.
Sometimes a team of translators is necessary to get the job done on time. Translators specialize in different types of translation and interpretation, so a diverse team can be the most efficient.
Apply Knowledge of Cultural Differences to Translations
Translation is not as easy as just looking up each word in a language to language dictionary. Cultural differences can make translation more challenging. For an effective, understandable translation of a document or spoken words, the translator must have an adequate grasp of the culture as well as the language. Experienced translators can help to ensure that cultural rules and customs are respected and followed in a global clinical trial.
Ensure a Successful Clinical Trial with Kontekst Translations
When you need knowledgeable translators and interpreters to assist with a global clinical trial, you can trust the experts at Kontekst. We offer translations in over 250 languages and specialize in medical and pharmaceutical terminology. Our translations pass through many revisions for accuracy and we maintain strict confidentiality to avoid compromising your clinical trial.
Contact us today to request translation services. We look forward to aiding in the success of global clinical trials for the benefit of people all over the world.
