The Keyword Effect: A Grounded Theory Study Exploring the Role of Keywords in Clinical Communication

摘要

Keywords, also known as “buzzwords” or “trigger words,” serve as memorable descriptors to associate physical findings with specific diagnoses. These terms, such as “target lesion” and “steeple sign,” liken a physical or radiographic finding to a nonmedical comparator as a means to elicit an associated diagnosis. Keywords permeate medical literature and clinical conversations. However, the potential for miscommunicating critical information exists and the impact of keywords on communication‐related medical error is unknown. We explored the use of keywords and how physicians perceive their use in their clinical communication as part of patient care.