Santa Barbara — A group of healthcare workers at Pesetas Urgent Care in Santa Barbara have been terminated after a viral video showed them mocking patients’ bodily fluids left on exam chairs.

The video, originally posted on TikTok, captured staff members laughing, pointing, and posing around stains on exam room paper. One text overlay read, “Are patients allowed to leave you guys gifts?” while another slide was captioned, “Guess the substance!”

The clip quickly spread across social media, drawing widespread outrage. Following the backlash, Sutter Health, which operates the facility, confirmed the employees were placed on leave within 24 hours of the post being reported and were dismissed soon after.

In a statement, the clinic said the incident was a violation of policy and patient trust. “This unacceptable behavior shows a lack of respect for those we serve and will not be tolerated,” a spokesperson said.

Authorities confirmed that an internal investigation is ongoing. Both the TikTok account and the video have since been deleted, though the footage continues to circulate online.

Social media reactions strongly criticized the conduct, with many calling it unprofessional and unethical. “It’s shocking how many people were involved and none thought it was wrong,” one user wrote.

The case has raised questions about professionalism in healthcare and highlighted risks of inappropriate use of social media by medical staff.