Every profession has its own language. Nursing has a whole dictionary of phrases that mean something slightly different from what they say. Here are 25 that every nurse will recognise.
Picture the end of a long shift when a colleague says, “Well, that was interesting,” and the whole team bursts out laughing, because everyone knows exactly what it means.
- “I’ll be right back.” I will be back after three other emergencies.
- “It’s been an interesting shift.” Please do not ask.
- “Let me check.” I need to find someone who knows.
- “Small scratch.” This will hurt a bit.
- “I’ll just pop to the loo.” First chance in eight hours.
- “How are we feeling today?” I am assessing everything about you.
- “Is there anything else I can get you?” Please say no.
- “I’m on my break.” I am eating standing up while answering the phone.
- “He’s a lovely gentleman.” He is a lot of work.
- “Quick question…” It is never quick.
- “Let’s see how they do.” I am worried.
- “I’ll chart it later.” At the end of my shift, after handover.
- “Sharp scratch.” Brace yourself.
- “We’re a bit busy today.” Every bed is full and three are waiting.
- “Can you just…” A twenty-minute task.
- “It’s quiet tonight.” Never say this.
- “I’ll ask the team.” I have already asked three times.
- “I’m fine.” I need coffee and sleep.
- “Have you eaten?” Have you had anything today, colleague?
- “Mind your back.” I care about you.
- “Who’s got bed 6?” Something has happened in bed 6.
- “Can I borrow you?” I need help with something heavy.
- “I’m staying late.” Unpaid, again.
- “Good shift?” Did anything go terribly wrong?
- “See you tomorrow.” We do this again in nine hours.
“But aren’t jokes like this unprofessional?”
These are affectionate jokes about the job, not about patients. Shared humour helps nurses cope and bond. The line is never to mock patients or share their details.
Your next step: Share this with your team group chat and add your own translation in the comments.
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