Implicit Bias Training for Michigan RN and LPN Special Volunteers

Target Audience
Michigan Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, RN Special Volunteers, and LPN Special Volunteers.

Teaching Method
Self-directed learning completed independently, with scenario-based reflection.

Overview
Implicit bias can affect how nurses communicate with patients, interpret concerns, respond to behavior, and participate in care-related decisions. For Michigan RNs, LPNs, RN Special Volunteers, and LPN Special Volunteers, this course focuses on practical awareness and response strategies that support respectful, consistent, and person-centered nursing practice.

The course addresses how implicit bias may appear in everyday nursing interactions, including assumptions about pain, symptoms, communication style, disability, age, race, ethnicity, language, socioeconomic status, gender, and family involvement. It also explains how bias can affect trust, access to care, follow-through, and the way concerns are documented or escalated.

Learners will review realistic nursing-focused examples and reflect on practical steps that can reduce the impact of bias. These steps include pausing before making assumptions, asking respectful clarifying questions, using objective observations, involving appropriate supports, and documenting care-related concerns clearly and professionally.

This course is not designed to label nurses or diagnose patient behavior. It is designed to strengthen professional awareness, improve communication, and support fair, respectful nursing care for diverse patients, families, and communities.

Learner Objectives
Upon completion of this course, the learner will be able to:

• Identify how implicit bias may influence patient communication, professional judgment, and care-related decisions in RN and LPN practice.
• Describe practical strategies Michigan nurses and nursing special volunteers can use to reduce the impact of implicit bias during patient interactions.
• Apply respectful, person-centered responses in realistic nursing scenarios involving diverse patients, families, and care team members.

Disclosure
The planner(s) and author(s) of this educational activity have disclosed that there are no relevant financial relationships with any commercial interests related to the content of this course. This course is developed for educational purposes and does not receive commercial support.

Disclaimer
The information provided in this course is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the content is not guaranteed to be free from errors or omissions. Participants are encouraged to consult with a qualified professional for specific advice related to their circumstances. The creators and presenters of this course disclaim any liability for decisions made based on the information provided.