Nurses with sign language experience?

[LanaBanana]

I'm starting my nursing program in May. I'm currently taking a sign language class and love it. Would really like to be able to continue but can't right now. I was just wondering if there's anybody out there who's certified as an interpreter? Are there any pay incentives for it? My sign teacher has told me that if I'm not certified, as a nurse I shouldn't try to talk to my deaf patients because it could become a legal issue of me not being qualified. If I try to communicate in sign with a deaf patient and the communication is just on a personal level, and not trying to convey medical information, would that be a problem? I would like to be able to use this class in my profession. I've met so many deaf people at the social events I've had to attend for class and realize what an opportunity it could be to know more sign.

[LanaBanana]

My sign teacher is also deaf. You aren't allowed to use your voice at all during class and can be asked to leave class if you are caught talking. After we took our mid-term, our teacher cleared his throat and said "Surprise! I can talk!" It really was a surprise, and although the majority of our class is still done without voice, he occassionally explains projects to us out loud (we still aren't allowed to use our voice though!) I'm also taking a Bible stories through sign language class at church. We're trying to start a deaf ministry and need more people who can sign.