Which practice best reflects professional boundaries and agency guidelines in interpreter work?

• A. Avoid contacting the agency for next assignments
• B. Operate entirely independently of the agency
• C. Maintain professional boundaries and follow agency protocols
• D. Share client information with others

Answer: (C)

Maintaining professional boundaries and following agency protocols keeps interpreter work ethical, reliable, and confidential. Boundaries clarify appropriate interactions with clients and colleagues, preventing conflicts of interest or inappropriate relationships, while agency protocols provide the formal steps for scheduling, assignment handling, and safeguarding client information. Sticking to these practices protects client privacy, ensures a clear and accountable workflow, and supports proper supervision and escalation if issues arise. Bypassing the agency for assignments, operating without agency oversight, or sharing client details with others would break confidentiality, disrupt the process, and undermine trust in the service.