Social Media Guidelines for Nurses

It is inevitable that the growth of social media and other electronic communication continually increases. So as the increase in number of nursing professionals. Many of us use blogs, social networking sites, video sites like Youtube, online chat rooms and forums to communicate both personally and professionally with others. Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram are exciting and valuable tools when used wisely. However, the very nature of social media can post a risk as it offers instantaneous posting opportunities that allow little time for reflective thought and carries the added burden that what is posted on the Internet is discovered by law even when its long deleted.

It is our obligation as nurses to protect privacy of our patients at all times. But sometimes, we are not aware that posting a picture of our patients is a breach of their confidentiality.

Because of these repercussions of inappropriate use of social media, National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) stated:

Because of inappropriate use of social media, some nurses have lost their jobs, been disciplined by the Board of Nursing, been highlighted in national media, been a target of lawsuits, and been criminally charged.

What do nurses need to know so that they can use social media, both personally and professionally, without worrying about repercussions? Watch the 5-minute video about the responsible use of Social Media for us nurses!

Social Media Guidelines for Nurses

White Paper: A Nurse’s Guide to the Use of Social Media

Also here is the White Paper published by NCSBN.org:

Via NCSBN.org