Nursing Influencers: an analysis from the perspective of information dissemination and combating misinformation

Objective: To analyze, based on the justifications for connecting with digital nursing influencers, how their influence occurs in the dissemination of information and combating misinformation in health. Methods A cross-sectional study of a quantitative-qualitative nature was conducted. In the quantitative phase, digital nursing influencers were characterized based on opinion leadership, engagement, length of activity, and reach. Sampling was performed on the Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, X, and YouTube platforms from 2022 to 2024. The data were analyzed with SPSS 27 software, using frequencies and chi-square tests (α=0.05). In the qualitative phase, content analysis was performed with Iramuteq software to identify thematic categories. Results A total of 324 nursing digital influencers were identified, with a combined reach of over 45 million followers. The majority (91.4%) were registered nurses who used Instagram. The main focus of the content was nursing education, while also confronting health misinformation. Nursing influencers educate, combat misinformation, expose the challenges of the job, and strengthen professional identity, cohesion, and visibility. Conclusion Digital nursing influencers act as key agents in disseminating reliable health information and combating misinformation. Through educational content, emotional engagement, and professional advocacy, they promote health literacy, strengthen public trust, and reinforce the identity of nursing. Their presence on social media transforms digital spaces into environments for learning, empowerment, and collective resistance against misinformation.