Translation methods of instruments to sign language: An evidence-based proposal

Abstract

Objective: to identify translation methods of health research instruments into sign language and propose an evidence-based model. Method: integrative review developed in the PubMed, LILACS, CINAHL, Science Direct and Web of Science, based on the descriptors “sign language”, “translations”, “cross-cultural comparison” and “methods”. Articles were selected that described the translation method of research instruments into sign language, published between January 2006 and December 2016 in Portuguese, Spanish and English. Results: nine articles were identified that complied with the inclusion criteria, which were analyzed based on the categories: Individualized translation processes; Group translation; Translations with adjustments per monolingual and bilingual groups; and Mixed translations. All studies developed the translation, back translation and adjustment phases of their versions to the original instrument, culminating in recorded final versions, some of which were published as software. Conclusion: there is no consensus on a methodological model for translation into sign language. Thus, a method is proposed that comprises the following phases: individualized translations elaborated by a heterogeneous bilingual group, synthesis of translations, back translation, analysis and adjustments by expert judges, pilot and final recorded version.