Top tips on social media use
Social media is the new way to communicate and to find information. Registered nurses and midwives who use Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram and other social media channels need to know what is acceptable and what is not.
An important point to remember is that if you post a personal message on social media, it becomes public property. It can be shared and read by hundreds of people – including some you may not want to see what you say.
It is very important, therefore, that registered nurses and midwives are clear on what they are saying and fully understand who they are saying it to.
A clear distinction should also be made between personal and professional communications through social media. Never mix the two.
Also, as registered nurses and midwives remember you should never breach a patient’s trust and confidentiality by revealing personal information online.
Here are the top tips:
- Understand the basic concepts before you go online.
- Respect boundaries: keep your personal life and professional life separate online.
- Respect patient / client privacy and confidentiality.
- Use social media websites and social networking for your professional development.
- Pause before you post.
- Imagine your post ‘going viral’.
- Use ‘netiquette’ ('net' + 'etiquette') when you are online.
- Regularly check your settings and accounts online.
- Remove any links between you and inappropriate content online.
- Report any inappropriate content.
- Understand and follow your organisation’s ICT policies.
These tips are also available as a poster and can be downloaded from the link below.
Social Media and Social Networking Top Tips for Nurses and Midwives
(PDF, 0.72 MB)
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