Which standard of practice involves protecting written patient information?

The standard of practice that involves protecting written patient information is confidentiality. This principle is fundamental in interpreting and healthcare settings, as it ensures that any sensitive information disclosed during the interpreting process is kept secure and private. Confidentiality maintains the trust between the patient and the healthcare provider, as well as the interpreter, allowing patients to feel safe in sharing their personal health information without fear of it being shared improperly.

Confidentiality encompasses not only verbal communication but also any written documents that contain patient information. Protecting this information is crucial in preventing unauthorized access or breaches that could compromise the patient's privacy. Adhering to this standard is essential for compliance with legal and ethical obligations related to patient rights and privacy laws, such as HIPAA in the United States.

In contrast, the other options – role boundaries, advocacy, and cultural mediation – play important roles in interpreter practice but do not specifically focus on the protection of written patient information. Role boundaries refer to the limits of an interpreter's responsibilities and functions, advocacy involves supporting a patient’s needs through communication, and cultural mediation deals with bridging cultural differences to enhance understanding between parties.