Technological advancement

Technological advancement

Technological advancement has made it easy to access different sources of digital communication. The rapid growth of social media use has changed the way people share information and convey messages. Different professions, for example, nursing, employ social media in different effective ways (Thielst, 2013). But the use of social media resources brings the need for great responsibility. This is because using different social media platforms exposes the thin line between etiquette, professionalism, and adherence to state and federal laws.

Healthcare professionals, such as physicians and nurses, use social media in different ways. They use the various platforms as an education tool and communicate to enhance safety and health outcomes in patients (Fraser, 2011). Nurses and other employees in health facilities are required to maintain patient confidentiality and privacy. Also, the employees carry out their responsibilities in a way that represents their duties.

Nurses need to use social media within the standards of ethics, performance, and conduct. The different social media platforms are valuable in communication and sharing of information. Nurses who decide to use social media as part of their work need to ensure that they behave with integrity to protect patients’ confidentiality and be professional at all times (Cashion et al., 2017).

The different social media platforms allow patients to interact with nurses and other healthcare professionals promptly and effectively. Also, the platforms make it possible for patients to take part in their care. Appropriate use of social media gives patients the ability to share their health concerns and discuss possible medical interventions. Appropriate use of social media promotes the nursing profession by educating the public (Fraser, 2011).

Irresponsible and inappropriate use of social media can lead to different unpleasant situations. As a result, nurses need to be aware of the risks of using social media for different purposes. Some of the risks of inappropriate use of social media include underestimation of serious situations, breach of data, and publication of incorrect medical information.

There have been cases of inappropriate use of social media in the past, involving posting patient information on social media. There have been incidents where nurses have disclosed patient information without their consent and unnecessary comments made about the health status (Cashion et al., 2017). Inappropriate use of social media can adversely affect both the nurse and the patient’s personal and professional life.

Obligations as a Nurse Concerning the Use of Social Media and the Consequences of Inappropriate Use.

It is the responsibility of healthcare professionals, including nurses, to protect their patients’ confidentiality at all times (Mello, 2011). Nurses need to use social media platforms without mentioning their patients’ names to help protect their privacy rights. Therefore, they should evaluate their posts with the proper understanding that patients, colleagues, and employers could view them.

Incidents of inappropriate use of social media led to the British Medical Association’s formulation of guidelines on how to use social media appropriately. Improper use of social media has consequences for both the patient and the healthcare professional (Mello, 2011). Inappropriate use of social media can lead to disciplinary action and adversely affect the nurse’s licensure and career. Also, a nurse might face civil lawsuits and criminal charges for inappropriate use of social media.