Social media and social networking: guidance
Social media and social networking are important communication and information resources for registered nurses and midwives.
They provide an instant means of communicating with colleagues; exchanging practice information and a way of finding answers to questions and researching profession-related issues.
Social media and social networking on sites like Facebook, Twitter and YouTube open up access to a vast wealth of information, practice experience, health care disciplines and developments.
But while social media is a valuable aid to working nurses and midwives, you should use the various sites with care and professional judgement.
Keep a strict divide between the personal and professional use of social media and, in particular, remember to always respect patient confidentiality in any online communication.
And remember too that when you share information on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram etc, your message could ultimately be seen by thousands of people if your message goes viral.
However, the benefits of social media and social networking outweigh any negative aspects.
These include:
- Access to support networks for professional and service users.
- Nursing and midwifery professional discussion forums.
- Sharing of healthcare information.
- Communication with service users.
- Access to research.
- Professional networking on a global scale.
- Continuing professional development (CPD).
- Safety alerts.
Social media and social networking can also act as a global voice for nursing and midwifery that can help counteract negative stereotypes and promote the professions.
The Guidance to Nurses and Midwives on Social Media and Social Networking can help registered nurses and midwives, nursing and midwifery students and nursing and midwifery managers to learn about the benefits of social media and social networking and understand basic guidelines for its safe use.
Guidance to Nurses and Midwives on Social Media and Social Networking
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