Top 45 Slang For Hospital – Meaning & Usage

Hospitals can sometimes feel like a different world, with their own language and terminology. But fear not! We’ve got you covered with a list of the top slang words and phrases used in hospitals. From “code brown” to “frequent flyer,” this list will have you speaking the language of healthcare in no time. So sit back, relax, and get ready to navigate the hospital corridors like a pro.

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1. Scrubs

This term refers to the clothing worn by medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and other staff members, while working in a hospital. Scrubs are typically loose-fitting and comfortable, allowing for easy movement and cleanliness.

For example, a nurse might say, “I need to change into my scrubs before my shift starts.”
A doctor might comment, “I spilled coffee on my scrubs this morning, I need to find a spare pair.”
In a conversation about hospital attire, someone might ask, “Do you prefer wearing scrubs or lab coats?”

2. White Coat

The white coat is a symbol of the medical profession and is typically worn by doctors. It is a long, white garment that is often worn over regular clothing and serves as a protective barrier and a sign of authority and expertise.

For instance, a patient might say, “I feel more reassured when my doctor is wearing a white coat.”
A medical student might proudly exclaim, “I finally got my white coat ceremony!”
In a hospital setting, a nurse might ask a doctor, “Do you need your white coat for rounds?”

3. Code Blue

This term is used to indicate a medical emergency, particularly when a patient’s heart has stopped beating or they are experiencing a life-threatening situation. The phrase “Code Blue” is often announced over the hospital’s intercom system to alert medical staff.

For example, a nurse might say, “We had a Code Blue in the ICU earlier today.”
A doctor might explain, “During a Code Blue, everyone on the team has a specific role to play.”
In a discussion about emergency protocols, someone might ask, “What’s the difference between a Code Blue and a Code Red?”

4. Bedpan Alley

This slang term refers to a hospital ward or area where elderly patients are predominantly treated. It is often used in a lighthearted or joking manner, but can also reflect the reality of a hospital ward that primarily cares for older individuals.

For instance, a nurse might say, “I’m working in Bedpan Alley tonight, it’s always busy.”
A doctor might comment, “We need more resources in Bedpan Alley to meet the needs of our aging population.”
In a conversation about hospital demographics, someone might ask, “Is Bedpan Alley the same as the geriatric ward?”

5. Frequent Flyer

This term is used to describe a patient who frequently visits the hospital or has a history of multiple hospital admissions. It can be used in a variety of contexts, from patients with chronic conditions to individuals who frequently seek medical attention for minor ailments.

For example, a nurse might say, “Mr. Johnson is one of our frequent flyers, he’s here almost every week.”
A doctor might discuss a patient’s medical history and mention, “She’s a frequent flyer, so we need to closely monitor her condition.”
In a conversation about healthcare utilization, someone might ask, “What strategies can we implement to reduce the number of frequent flyers?”

6. Gomer

This term is used to refer to a difficult or challenging patient who frequently seeks medical attention for minor or non-existent ailments. It can also be used to describe a patient who is uncooperative or demanding.

For example, a doctor might say, “I had another Gomer in the ER today, complaining of a headache.”
A nurse might vent, “I can’t believe that Gomer called for the fifth time this week.”
In a medical TV show, a character might say, “We need to find a solution for this Gomer who keeps clogging up the ER.”

7. Zebra

In the medical field, a “zebra” refers to a rare or unusual medical condition or diagnosis. It is often used to remind physicians to consider uncommon possibilities when making a diagnosis.

For instance, a doctor might say, “When you hear hoofbeats, think horses, not zebras.”
In a discussion about medical mysteries, someone might say, “I once had a patient with a zebra diagnosis that took months to figure out.”
A medical student might ask, “How do we differentiate between common conditions and zebras in our diagnostic process?”

8. Crash Cart

A “crash cart” is a mobile cart or trolley that contains emergency medical equipment and supplies. It is used during medical emergencies to provide immediate access to life-saving tools and medications.

For example, a nurse might say, “We need the crash cart in Room 3, stat!”
During a code blue situation, a doctor might shout, “Get the crash cart and start CPR.”
A paramedic might describe their duties by saying, “I’m responsible for maintaining and restocking the crash cart in the ambulance.”

9. Candy Striper

A “candy striper” is a term used to describe a volunteer, typically a young person, who assists in a hospital setting. The term originated from the candy-striped uniforms that volunteers used to wear.

For instance, a hospital administrator might say, “We have a group of candy stripers who help with patient transport and other tasks.”
A former candy striper might reminisce, “I loved spending my summers volunteering at the hospital and brightening patients’ days.”
A nurse might introduce a candy striper to a patient by saying, “This is Sarah, one of our wonderful candy stripers who will be helping you today.”

10. Meatball Surgery

This term is used to describe a surgical procedure that is performed quickly and without precision. It can also refer to a surgery that is done in less than ideal conditions or with limited resources.

For example, a surgeon might say, “We had to do some meatball surgery in the field to stabilize the patient.”
In a medical TV show, a character might comment, “The resident did a bit of meatball surgery, but luckily, it turned out okay.”
A nurse might express frustration by saying, “I wish the surgeons would take their time instead of rushing through meatball surgeries.”

11. VIP

A term used to refer to a high-profile or influential patient who requires special attention and privacy. VIPs may include celebrities, politicians, or other individuals who require additional security or accommodations.

For example, “The hospital has a special wing for VIPs to ensure their privacy and comfort.”
A nurse might say, “We need to prepare for the arrival of a VIP patient. They have specific requests and requirements.”
In a discussion about hospital protocols, someone might ask, “How do we handle VIP patients differently from regular patients?”

12. PITA

PITA stands for “Pain in the Ass” and is used to describe a difficult or annoying person or situation.

For example, a nurse might say, “Dealing with that patient was a total PITA.”
A doctor might complain, “The paperwork for insurance claims is such a PITA.”
A hospital employee might vent, “The broken elevator is making our job a PITA.”

13. GOMER PYLE

GOMER PYLE is an acronym for “Get Out Of My Emergency Room” and is used to refer to a difficult or demanding patient who frequently seeks medical attention for minor issues.

For instance, a nurse might say, “We had another GOMER PYLE come in with a headache.”
A doctor might complain, “I’m tired of dealing with GOMER PYLEs who just want pain medication.”
An emergency room staff member might sigh, “GOMER PYLE strikes again with another non-emergency.”

14. Triage

Triage is the process of determining the priority of patients’ treatments based on the severity of their condition. It involves sorting patients into categories to ensure that those with the most urgent needs receive immediate attention.

For example, a nurse might say, “The triage nurse is responsible for assessing patients as they arrive.”
A doctor might explain, “During a mass casualty event, triage helps prioritize care for the most critically injured.”
A hospital administrator might discuss, “Triage protocols are in place to ensure efficient use of resources.”

15. Bed Pan Alley

Bed Pan Alley is a slang term for a geriatric ward, where elderly patients who may require assistance with daily activities are cared for.

For instance, a nurse might say, “I’m assigned to Bed Pan Alley today.”
A hospital staff member might mention, “The geriatric ward is sometimes called Bed Pan Alley due to the high number of bedridden patients.”
A doctor might discuss, “Bed Pan Alley requires specialized care for the unique needs of elderly patients.”

16. M&M

M&M stands for “Morbidity and Mortality” and refers to a conference or meeting held in hospitals to review and discuss cases with adverse outcomes or unexpected complications.

For example, a doctor might say, “We have an M&M conference scheduled for tomorrow to review the surgical complications.”
A resident might mention, “The M&M conference helps us learn from mistakes and improve patient care.”
A hospital administrator might discuss, “The M&M conference is an important part of our quality improvement initiatives.”

17. Belly Shop

This term refers to the hospital cafeteria where patients, visitors, and staff can purchase food and drinks. It is called a “belly shop” because it is a place where people can satisfy their hunger or cravings.

For example, a nurse might say, “I’m going to grab a quick bite at the belly shop during my lunch break.”
A patient might ask, “Is there a belly shop in this hospital? I’m starving.”
A visitor might comment, “The belly shop here has a great selection of sandwiches and salads.”

18. Gas Passer

This slang term refers to an anesthesiologist, who is responsible for administering anesthesia to patients during surgery or medical procedures. The term “gas passer” comes from the use of inhaled gases for anesthesia.

For instance, a surgeon might say, “We need the gas passer in the operating room for the next procedure.”
A nurse might ask, “Has the gas passer been informed about the patient’s allergies?”
A patient might say, “I’m nervous about going under anesthesia. I hope the gas passer is experienced.”

19. Rock Star

In the context of slang for hospitals, a “rock star” refers to a doctor who is highly skilled and respected in their field. This term is used to describe doctors who consistently deliver exceptional care and achieve outstanding results.

For example, a nurse might say, “Dr. Smith is a rock star in the operating room. Patients always have great outcomes with him.”
A patient might comment, “I feel lucky to have such a rock star doctor taking care of me.”
A hospital administrator might say, “We’re proud to have a team of rock star doctors who provide top-notch care to our patients.”

20. Drug Seeker

This term refers to a patient who visits the hospital with the primary intention of obtaining prescription drugs, often for non-medical purposes. “Drug seeker” is used to describe individuals who may exaggerate or fabricate symptoms in order to obtain medication.

For instance, a nurse might say, “We have a suspected drug seeker in the emergency room. They’ve been requesting pain medication for every minor complaint.”
A doctor might note, “It’s important to assess patients carefully to differentiate between genuine pain and drug seekers.”
A pharmacist might say, “We need to be vigilant in identifying potential drug seekers and following proper protocols.”

21. Meat Wagon

This slang term refers to an ambulance, which is a vehicle used to transport patients to and from the hospital. The term “meat wagon” is a darkly humorous way to describe the ambulance’s purpose of transporting injured or ill individuals.

For example, a paramedic might say, “Call for the meat wagon. We have a critical patient here.”
A bystander witnessing an accident might comment, “I hope the meat wagon arrives quickly to help those injured.”
A hospital staff member might say, “The meat wagon just brought in a patient with multiple injuries.”

22. House of Pain

This term is used to refer to a hospital, often implying that it is a place of suffering or discomfort.

For example, someone might say, “I’ve been in and out of the house of pain for the past month.”
In a conversation about medical procedures, a person might mention, “I had to go to the house of pain for surgery.”
A nurse might jokingly say, “Welcome to the house of pain, where we make you feel better by making you feel worse.”

23. ER

The ER is a department in a hospital where patients with severe injuries or illnesses receive immediate medical attention. It is often used as a shorter form for “emergency room”.

For instance, someone might say, “I had to rush to the ER after I broke my arm.”
In a discussion about healthcare, a person might mention, “The ER is always busy on weekends.”
A doctor might say, “I work in the ER and see a wide range of cases every day.”

24. ICU

The ICU is a specialized department in a hospital that provides intensive and critical care to patients with life-threatening conditions. It is often used as an abbreviation for “intensive care unit”.

For example, a person might say, “My grandfather is in the ICU after having a heart attack.”
In a conversation about medical facilities, someone might mention, “The ICU is equipped with advanced life support systems.”
A nurse might say, “Working in the ICU requires constant monitoring and quick decision-making.”

25. OR

The OR is a specialized room in a hospital where surgical procedures are performed. It is often used as an abbreviation for “operating room”.

For instance, someone might say, “I’ll be in the OR for my surgery tomorrow.”
In a discussion about medical procedures, a person might mention, “The OR is equipped with state-of-the-art surgical instruments.”
A surgeon might say, “I spend most of my time in the OR, performing various types of surgeries.”

26. Ward

A ward is a division or section of a hospital where patients with similar medical conditions or needs are grouped together. It is often used to refer to a specific unit within a hospital.

For example, someone might say, “I visited my friend in the pediatric ward.”
In a conversation about healthcare facilities, a person might mention, “The maternity ward is on the second floor.”
A nurse might say, “I work in the surgical ward, taking care of post-operative patients.”

27. Doc

Short for “doctor,” this term is commonly used to refer to a medical professional.

For example, a patient might say, “I need to see the doc for a check-up.”
A nurse might ask, “Has the doc reviewed your test results yet?”
In a conversation about healthcare, someone might mention, “My sister is training to become a doc.”

28. Nurse Ratched

This term refers to a strict and authoritarian nurse, often used in reference to the character Nurse Ratched from the novel and film “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest.”

For instance, a patient might say, “Watch out for Nurse Ratched, she’s tough.”
In a discussion about nursing, someone might mention, “I had a Nurse Ratched-type during my hospital stay.”
A nurse might joke, “I try not to be a Nurse Ratched, but sometimes tough love is necessary.”

29. Rounds

This term refers to the regular visits made by medical professionals to check on patients in a hospital.

For example, a nurse might say, “The doctor will be making rounds in the morning.”
A patient might ask, “When are rounds usually done?”
In a discussion about hospital routines, someone might mention, “Rounds can be a busy time for nurses and doctors.”

30. Meds

Short for “medications,” this term is commonly used to refer to the drugs prescribed for treatment or management of medical conditions.

For instance, a nurse might ask, “Have you taken your meds today?”
A patient might say, “I need a refill on my meds.”
In a conversation about healthcare, someone might mention, “It’s important to take your meds as prescribed.”

31. Cath Lab

This term refers to a specialized room or area in a hospital where cardiac catheterization procedures are performed.

For example, a doctor might say, “We need to take the patient to the cath lab for further evaluation.”
A nurse might mention, “The cath lab is equipped with advanced imaging technology.”
In a discussion about heart procedures, someone might ask, “How long does a typical cath lab procedure take?”

32. Gurney

A gurney is a type of hospital bed that is mounted on wheels, allowing for easy transportation of patients. It is commonly used in emergency rooms or during patient transfers.

For example, a nurse might say, “Bring the gurney to Room 302, we have a patient ready for transport.”
In a medical drama, a doctor might urgently request, “Get the patient on the gurney, we need to take them to surgery immediately.”
A paramedic might report, “The gurney is secure in the ambulance, we’re ready to transport the patient to the hospital.”

33. Peds

Short for “pediatrics,” which is the branch of medicine that deals with the medical care of infants, children, and adolescents. “Peds” is often used as a shorthand term among healthcare professionals.

For instance, a nurse might say, “I’m scheduled for a shift in the peds department tomorrow.”
During a medical conference, a doctor might present a case study on “Peds infectious diseases.”
A medical student might ask, “Are there any peds rotations available at the hospital?”

34. Haldol Shuffle

The “Haldol Shuffle” refers to the side effects caused by the antipsychotic medication Haldol, which can include involuntary muscle movements similar to those seen in Parkinson’s disease. The term is often used humorously or informally among healthcare professionals.

For example, a nurse might say, “Watch out for the patient in Room 205, they’re doing the Haldol Shuffle.”
During a medication review, a doctor might note, “The patient experienced some mild Haldol Shuffle, but it’s manageable.”
A healthcare worker might joke, “I always do the Haldol Shuffle after a long shift!”

35. Scrub Tech

A scrub tech, short for “surgical technologist,” is a healthcare professional who assists surgeons during surgical procedures. They are responsible for preparing the operating room, sterilizing equipment, and handing instruments to the surgeon.

For instance, a surgeon might say, “Pass me the scalpel, scrub tech.”
During a surgery, a nurse might ask the scrub tech, “Do you have the sutures ready?”
A medical student observing a surgery might ask the scrub tech, “What’s the role of a scrub tech in the operating room?”

36. PPE

PPE refers to the specialized clothing and equipment worn by healthcare workers to protect themselves and patients from infection and other hazards. It includes items such as masks, gloves, gowns, and goggles.

For example, a nurse might say, “Make sure you’re wearing your PPE before entering the isolation room.”
During a training session, an instructor might explain, “Proper use of PPE is crucial in preventing the spread of infectious diseases.”
A healthcare worker might remind their colleague, “Don’t forget to dispose of your PPE properly after leaving the patient’s room.”

37. White coat syndrome

White coat syndrome, also known as white coat hypertension, refers to the fear or anxiety that some individuals experience when visiting a doctor or medical professional. The term “white coat” refers to the white lab coats typically worn by doctors and medical staff.

For example, a person might say, “I get really nervous at the doctor’s office, I think I have white coat syndrome.”
Another might say, “My heart rate always goes up when I see a doctor, it’s definitely white coat syndrome.”
A doctor might reassure a patient by saying, “Many people experience white coat syndrome, it’s completely normal.”

38. Pill pusher

This term is used to describe a doctor who is perceived to prescribe or push unnecessary or excessive amounts of medication. It can also refer to a medical professional who is seen as prioritizing medication over other forms of treatment.

For instance, a patient might complain, “My doctor just wants to give me pills for everything, he’s such a pill pusher.”
In a discussion about healthcare, someone might say, “We need to address the issue of pill pushers in the medical field.”
A person might express concern by saying, “I don’t want to see a pill pusher, I prefer a doctor who explores all treatment options.”

39. MASH

MASH is an acronym for Mobile Army Surgical Hospital, which refers to a type of medical unit used by the United States Army during times of war. It has also become a slang term for a hospital or medical facility in general.

For example, a person might ask, “Where is the nearest MASH around here?”
In a conversation about military medicine, someone might say, “MASH units played a crucial role in providing medical care during wartime.”
A person might use the term humorously by saying, “I feel like I’m in a MASH unit with all the chaos and activity in this hospital.”

40. Rubber room

Rubber room is a slang term used to describe a mental health facility or psychiatric ward. The term may have originated from the padded rooms often found in psychiatric wards, which were lined with rubber for safety.

For instance, a person might say, “After his breakdown, he spent some time in the rubber room.”
In a discussion about mental health, someone might say, “We need to improve funding and resources for rubber rooms.”
A person might use the term metaphorically by saying, “Some days, I feel like I belong in the rubber room with all the stress and pressure.”

41. HMO

HMO is an acronym for Health Maintenance Organization, which refers to a type of managed care health insurance plan. It also commonly refers to a hospital or medical facility associated with such a plan.

For example, a person might ask, “Is this hospital part of the HMO network?”
In a conversation about healthcare options, someone might say, “I prefer an HMO because it provides comprehensive coverage.”
A person might discuss their insurance by saying, “I’m enrolled in an HMO, so I have to choose doctors within the network.”

42. Med student

A student who is studying medicine and training to become a doctor. “Med student” is a shortened form of “medical student.”

For example, a med student might say, “I have a big anatomy exam coming up.”
During a hospital rotation, a doctor might ask, “Can you assist the med student with this procedure?”
A med student might share their experience by saying, “Today, I observed a surgery for the first time.”

43. L&D

Refers to the department in a hospital that specializes in childbirth and providing care to pregnant women. “L&D” is an abbreviation commonly used by healthcare professionals.

For instance, a nurse might say, “I’m on duty in L&D tonight.”
A doctor might discuss a patient’s progress by saying, “The expectant mother is in L&D, currently in active labor.”
A pregnant woman might ask, “When should I go to L&D if I start experiencing contractions?”

44. CT scan

A medical imaging procedure that uses X-rays and computer technology to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body. “CT scan” is a common term used to refer to this diagnostic test.

For example, a radiologist might order a CT scan to further investigate a patient’s symptoms.
A doctor might discuss the results of a CT scan by saying, “The scan revealed a tumor in the patient’s lung.”
A patient might ask, “Do I need to prepare for a CT scan? Is it safe?”

45. MRI

A medical imaging technique that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to generate detailed images of the body’s internal structures. “MRI” is the commonly used abbreviation for this diagnostic test.

For instance, a technician might explain the procedure by saying, “During the MRI, you’ll need to lie still inside the machine.”
A doctor might request an MRI to further evaluate a patient’s joint pain.
A patient might ask, “How long does an MRI usually take? Will it be painful?”