UPDATE: A viral TikTok video by North Carolina nurse Yancy Guzman has sparked urgent discussions about medical terminology after an incident during a patient’s labor. The video, posted on September 15, has garnered nearly 810,000 views and highlights a critical lesson in communication between medical professionals and patients.
In her video, Guzman recalls a moment when a patient’s waters broke, and she referred to the situation as the woman being “grossly ruptured.” This phrase, which in medical terms indicates a significant amount of amniotic fluid leakage, caused the patient to misinterpret the meaning. “I was mortified [and] embarrassed,” Guzman admitted, illustrating how a simple misunderstanding could have drastically impacted the patient’s birth experience.
The emotional weight of the situation was palpable when Guzman explained how the patient reacted to her language. The nurse quickly clarified that “gross” simply referred to the volume of fluid, not an insult. “A quick apology and explanation completely changed the energy in the room,” she said. This incident serves as a crucial reminder that medical professionals must be mindful of the language they use, as terms that seem standard to them can sound rude or confusing to patients.
According to the Mayo Clinic, when a woman’s water breaks before labor starts, it is termed prelabor rupture of membranes (PROM). Guzman emphasized that understanding this terminology is vital for building trust and ensuring comfort during a sensitive time. “It’s important to remember that patients may not understand our terminology the way we do,” she explained.
Guzman’s experience resonates with many in the medical field and patients alike. TikTok users have shared similar stories in the comment section, highlighting the need for clear communication. One commenter recalled a patient who thought “SOB” in his chart referred to a derogatory term rather than “shortness of breath.” Another shared a humorous anecdote about an allergy bracelet that mistakenly led them to believe they were being called “crazy.”
This incident is a wake-up call for all medical professionals to prioritize empathy and clarity in their communication. Guzman stated, “No matter a patient’s age, background, or language, it’s our responsibility to make sure they feel safe, understood, and confident in their care.”
As healthcare continues to evolve, this moment serves as an important reminder of the profound impact that language can have in medical settings. With Guzman’s video bringing light to this issue, it urges a collective reevaluation of how medical terminology is communicated to ensure that all patients feel respected and informed.
Share your thoughts on this important topic and help spread awareness about the significance of sensitivity in medical communication.