chuffed to bits!- the use of slang in healthcare settings

In busy healthcare settings, language often becomes more informal and with that comes the use of slang or colloquial expressions, such as 'chuffed to bits' to mean 'really pleased'. While slang can help staff build a sense of rapport and team identity, it can also exclude people - especially international staff and patients who might be navigating unfamiliar systems, accents and even local expressions.

Consider the following:

• “Dodgy” (uncertain, unreliable, possibly unsafe)

• “Botch job” (poorly done procedure)

• “Gutted” (extremely disappointed or upset)

• “Bonkers” (irrational, confused, mentally unwell — depending on context)

  
  

These are common examples of slang in everyday British English. However, their meanings are not transparent and in healthcare settings could easily be misunderstood. Unlike medical terminology, slang is rarely taught in language programmes or induction training.

For an international nurse, hearing a colleague say “That wound looks a bit dodgy” may raise questions:

• Does this mean infected, or poorly sutured, or simply slow to heal?

Similarly, if a patient says they are “gutted” about their diagnosis, a literal interpretation may not capture the emotional intensity behind the word. And describing a patient as “bonkers” — even jokingly — can blur the line between informal humour and potentially stigmatising language.

In multicultural teams, slang adds an additional layer to an already overwhelmed cognitive load. International staff are not just translating vocabulary; they are interpreting tone, cultural nuance and implied meaning in real time. In an already high pressure work setting, this can be exhausting.

Clear communication is about recognising when language is challenging especially for international staff and patients. When we reduce ambiguity, we reduce risk — and create more inclusive teams.

In high-stakes environments, clarity is not just courteous. It is a patient safety strategy.

For more information there's a great guide here created by The Royal College of Nursing.