Medical Jargon Could Be Unintentionally Scaring Some Pediatric Patients

Being able to communicate effectively with patients is a cornerstone of the medical profession -- but what if that patient is a child? Gaps in language can cause children to misinterpret medical terms used by their pediatrician and, in turn, suggest a far more frightening scenario. The perspective piece, “Children’s Understanding of Commonly Used Medical Terminology,” published in the January 2025 Pediatrics, surveyed 100 children aged 4 to 12 at the 2023 Minnesota State Fair and discovered some confusing terms for young patients. Authors found that while most children understood terms like “negative COVID test” or “blood draw,” misunderstandings could paint a scarier picture. For example, several children surveyed believed that when doctors tell them they need to be “put to sleep” for surgery, this was akin to euthanizing a pet. Another common misconception was that when a hospital was “out of beds,” patients would have to bring a bed from home, sleep on the floor, or would not receive care. One child believed “getting an IV” meant they would receive an “International Vaccine.” The perspective highlights the need for clear communication with patients, with authors recommending that pediatricians reflect on what they would have understood at their patients' age.

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The American Academy of Pediatrics is an organization of 67,000 primary care pediatricians, pediatric medical subspecialists and pediatric surgical specialists dedicated to the health, safety and well-being of infants, children, adolescents and young adults.