Workers' Compensation: Course of Employment & Impairment
The Interpreter Academy USA
Advancing the Evolution of Professional Interpretation
Part I: Master Resource Index (Workers' Compensation)
WORKERS' COMP & IMPAIRMENT TERMINOLOGY
| English Source | Spanish Equivalent | Academy Distinction |
|---|---|---|
| Course of Employment | En el curso del empleo / laboral | The time, place, and conditions under which an injury occurred while working. |
| Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) | Mejoría médica máxima | The point at which an worker’s condition has stabilized. |
| Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) | Incapacidad permanente parcial | Compensation for a permanent loss of function in a body part. |
| Impairment Rating | Grado de menoscabo / incapacidad | A clinical percentage assigned to the loss of physical or mental function. |
Part II: Professional Practice Test
The Fact Pattern
"The petitioner sustained a lumbar spine injury while acting within the course of employment. Following a period of physical therapy, the treating physician declared the petitioner had reached maximum medical improvement (MMI). An Independent Medical Examination (IME) was conducted to determine the impairment rating for the purposes of awarding permanent partial disability benefits."
1. In a Workers' Comp hearing, how is 'Maximum Medical Improvement' rendered?
A) Curación total
B) Mejoría médica máxima (estabilización)
C) Fin del tratamiento
D) Alta del hospital
2. What is the standard interpretation for 'Course of Employment'?
A) Horario de oficina
B) En el curso del empleo / desempeño laboral
C) Camino al trabajo
D) Durante el contrato
3. The award is based on 'Permanent Partial Disability.' Select the correct term:
A) Incapacidad temporal total
B) Incapacidad permanente parcial
C) Retiro por vejez
D) Despido injustificado
Academy Answer Key & Analysis
Q1: B. Mejoría médica máxima. This signifies the legal stabilization of the patient's injury.
Q2: B. En el curso del empleo. This is the crucial legal standard determining if the employer is liable.
Q3: B. Incapacidad permanente parcial. Refers to benefits for long-term physical impairment.