Article offers strategies for curbing spread of misinformation

Nurses have an ethical responsibility to examine what they think they know and account for their cognitive biases before sharing information, according to an article in the January issue of the American Journal of Nursing. It contains advice for nurse leaders, managers and educators who want to facilitate good communications practices and help ensure nurses are held accountable for their actions and social media postings. Strategies for addressing misinformation include using trustworthy influential figures to provide alternative explanations and nurturing a questioning attitude. In dealing with subordinates who are spreading misinformation, nurse leaders are advised to begin by adopting an empathetic, inquiring attitude. If the nurse continues to spread misinformation, other approaches may be needed.