“Like Us on Facebook®”: Nursing in a World of Social Media

Highlights

• Social media is used by a majority of the population.

• Social media allows nurses easy access to patients and other nurses.

• Nurses can use social media for networking, information, and support.

• Online health communities may offer support and information to patients and nurses.

• Nurses should be aware of safe social media use and the risk of misinformation.

Abstract

Social media enables instant dialog and is growing among almost every demographic. Nurses can reach patients and benefit professionally by taking advantage of this internet phenomenon. Social media can be utilized for networking, information sharing, and support. Patients may benefit from support and information provided on various platforms. Online health communities are also effective for connecting patients to nurses and other patients with similar health conditions. There are limitations associated with social media use; however, the possibilities for reaching people quickly and in real time present opportunities for improvement to patient care and the nursing profession.

Introduction

In a world saturated with social media, it can be difficult to see anything but a negative impact on society. Although social media may contribute to societal ills, there are numerous ways for health care professionals to take advantage of this ubiquitous form of communication. Opportunities abound for nurses who choose to use the popularity of social media to improve patient care and outcomes, advance careers, enhance communication, and disseminate information. In addition, social media has become a place to conduct research and recruit participants. This article outlines various ways that nurses can effectively utilize social media and also identifies potential problems associated with social media use among nurses and patients.