The editor noted that, for complex reasons, children often talk authoritatively on topics about which they know little. Additionally, healthcare providers are often pressured to give an answer instantly. But intentional deception sometimes occurs in healthcare, too. In a study with internal medicine residents, subjects clearly indicated that it was wrong to deceive their colleagues. The study found that the likelihood of deception was dependent on circumstances.
Serious errors are possible when imprecision and misinformation are introduced into patient care.
Thus, it's important to evaluate your environment to identify particular circumstances under which providers are more likely to answer questions without confirmation. They should serve as role models and demonstrate that staff should not be afraid to admit that they do not know the answer to all questions. Further, rather than rush people for any answer, they should allow adequate time for staff to provide the correct answer. Address the issue during training programs using group discussions, simulations, and role-playing. Finally, encourage patients to take an active role in their healthcare and persistently ask questions if they are not satisfied with the answers they receive.