Children’s Understanding of Commonly Used Medical Terminology

• 2025

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• Rheanne Maravelas; Zachary Linneman; Jordan Marmet; Marissa Hendrickson; Scott Lunos; Emily Hause
PMID: 39576174DOI: https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2024-067871

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About

This article and video discuss children's understanding of commonly used medical terminology, highlighting the disconnect between medical professionals' use of jargon and patients' comprehension. The research group identifies 7 types of jargon, showing how these terms can lead to confusion and fear among children. By surveying children's interpretations of medical phrases, the study reveals significant misunderstandings, emphasizing the importance of clear communication in healthcare settings. The findings suggest the need for clinicians to consider alternate phrasings and utilize teach-back methods to ensure patient comprehension, especially when communicating with young patients.

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Tags

Focus Area: Everyday Emergency

Audience: Physicians

Emergency Management Stage: Preparedness (Prevention / Protection)

Keywords: Child Language; Patient Education as Topic; Pediatrics; Comprehension; Patient Safety; Health Literacy

Institutions: University of Minnesota; M Health Fairview Masonic Children's Hospital; Children's Minnesota; University of Wisconsin - Madison; University of Michigan; Tufts University

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