When Family Members Google Better Than You Chart
"I've been reading about nebulized hypertonic saline studies from 2023, and I think my mom should be on it."
You look at the chart. Mom has CHF and mild pulmonary edema. Hypertonic saline would be... the opposite of helpful.
Welcome to the Age of Dr. Google, WebMD, and Tiktok
Look, patient education is great. Informed families are wonderful. But sometimes you get family members who've spent 14 hours down the TikTok rabbit hole and now they're convinced they know better than the entire medical team.
The Classics
"I read essential oils can cure COPD." (Nope. Not a thing)
"Why isn't she on [incredibly specific treatment] that I saw on TikTok?" (Because TikTok MedTok isn't medical school)
"This article says you're doing it wrong." (The article is from 1987 and has been debunked as junk science)
"I found a Facebook group where someone's cousin's neighbor's dog had this and they did [wild untested thing]." (I am so glad I wear a mask so my full expression can’t be seen)
How to Handle It
First, don't be dismissive. Even when it's ridiculous, their concern is real. They're scared and trying to help. Start with validation: "I can tell you've been doing research because you care about [patient] and that is so amazing."
Then educate: "Let me explain why that specific treatment wouldn't work in this situation..." Use their research as a teaching opportunity.
Know when to punt: "That's a great question for the doctor. Let's make sure they address that on rounds."
The Reality
Sometimes families DO find legitimate research. Sometimes they catch things we missed. Stay humble and open-minded. But also... sometimes they've confused salt water gargling with IV saline and think we're denying their loved one life-saving treatment.
It's a wild world out there.
The Silver Lining
At least they care. A family member asking questions (even weird ones) is better than one who's completely checked out. And hey, you're getting really good at explaining complicated medical concepts in simple terms. That's a skill you'll use forever.
Just... maybe suggest some better websites than "www.CureEverythingNaturally.com". And stay off FB. Duhhh. <3