Beyond Baby Steps: Today's Use of Social Networking Sites and the Nursing Profession. Issue 3 (July 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sandlin, Jean Kelso; Hinmon, Dan
• Is Part Of: Journal of perinatal & neonatal nursing. Volume 30:Issue 3(2016)
• Page Start: 204
• Page End: 208
• Publication Date: 2016-07
• Subjects: ethics -- HIPAA -- nurse -- professionalism -- social media; Maternity nursing -- Periodicals; Neonatal nursing -- Periodicals; Maternal health services -- Periodicals; Newborn infants -- Medical care -- Periodicals; 610.7362
• DOI: 10.1097/JPN.0000000000000189
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0893-2190

Abstract

Abstract : Nurses' use of online social networking sites, such as Facebook and Twitter, are increasing and with it the controversy surrounding the compatibility of social networking sites within a profession that values privacy and confidentiality. This article draws on case studies, experiments, surveys, and policies from professional organizations, academic research, and nursing education programs spanning the last 5 years to highlight best practices that address 2 critical areas where the values of the nursing profession and those of social media most directly collide: regulatory issues and the blurring of professional and personal online identities. It also suggests ways of using social media to complement patient outcomes and the professional development of nurses while remaining consistent with professional ethics and values.