Social and skilled networks: opportunities and caution

Social networking and social media are usually not latest concepts. Social communication steadily moved from face-to-face conversations and early types of written and printed communication to using the phone for small talk and conference calls. We now use computers for group email (listserv), online forums, chats, quick messaging, and blogs. Interactive social networking sites corresponding to MySpace.com and Facebook.com have gotten popular due to their ability to remain connected with friends, classmates, and others with similar social, political, or entertainment interests. Examples of skilled networks are LinkedIn, Tagged and Plaxo. These web sites and people of skilled organizations show you how to make business connections, find jobs, and discuss difficult skilled and business issues.

Newer social networking features allow users to more easily exchange documents, including articles, policies, and documentation forms. Some web sites allow the nursing community to mentor newer nurses; recommend great job offers; and supply advice on returning to high school to pursue a sophisticated degree. It’s also helpful that these discussions are archived and searchable for later reference.

Professional and social networking sites provide many advantages to nurses, but some nurses are usually not very careful about using these sites. Here are some examples of the way to avoid mistakes on the Internet.

1. Think before you post messages, photos and videos. You never need to tarnish your skilled image, embarrass a colleague or harm your probabilities for profession advancement.
2. To protect yourself from identity theft, it’s essential to remember that social networking sites are usually not private and limit the quantity and style of personal information shared.
3. To avoid the chance of a HIPAA violation, never publish patient information without written consent.

For those that need to share latest techniques you have discovered, search for cost-effective ways to supply patient care, or announce your latest achievements, there are various great web sites waiting so that you can post or ask questions. Happy blogging!

Author: Karen Innocent, MS, RN, CRNP, ANP-BC, CMSRN