What is the recommended staffing for DeafBlind consumers in terms of interpreters per consumer?

• A. Two interpreters per consumer
• B. One interpreter per consumer
• C. Three interpreters per consumer
• D. Four interpreters per consumer

Answer: (A)

DeafBlind communication benefits from two interpreters working as a team for each consumer. One interpreter typically handles translating the spoken information into the DeafBlind user’s preferred mode (such as tactile signing or other accessible forms), while the second interpreter acts as a support or shadow, monitoring for accuracy, offering clarifications, and relaying environmental cues or turn-taking cues. This dual staffing helps manage the extra processing and different channels involved, reduces the likelihood of missing details, and keeps communication flowing smoothly even as information changes or speeds up. While more than two interpreters might be used in very complex situations, the standard and most effective staffing is two interpreters per consumer.