What ethical principle requires medical interpreters to maintain confidentiality?

The principle of confidentiality and privacy is essential in the role of medical interpreters. This principle mandates that interpreters must protect the privacy of patients by not disclosing any information received during the interpreting process to unauthorized individuals. This ethical obligation is crucial in healthcare settings, where sensitive patient information is shared and discussed.

Medical interpreters act as a bridge between healthcare providers and patients, and by maintaining confidentiality, they help create a trusting environment. Patients must feel safe to share their medical history and concerns, knowing that their privacy will be respected. Violating this principle can lead to a breach of trust and can compromise patient care and confidentiality, potentially resulting in legal and ethical repercussions.

While other principles such as informed consent, neutrality, and openness have their importance, they do not specifically address the obligation of interpreters to keep information private and secure. The principle of confidentiality and privacy directly impacts the interpreter's responsibilities in safeguarding the information they encounter during their work. Therefore, it is the correct answer in the context of ethical principles for medical interpreters.