Social Media and Professional Boundaries in the NICU Setting

Abstract

Poster Presentation Purpose for the Program A search of online databases provided evidence that nurses are not sure about how to maintain professional boundaries when using social media sites. Concerns about how to protect staff members from potential social media violations led to the development of an evidence‐based practice project to address the issue. Proposed Change To determine if the implementation of a structured social media education program would increase neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurses' understanding of professional boundaries when using social media networks. Implementation, Outcomes, and Evaluation A presurvey was conducted to assess staff understanding of social media and professional boundaries. After completion of the presurvey, an educational presentation about how to maintain professional boundaries when using social media platforms was presented to staff in the NICU at Baylor All Saints Medical Center. Following the presentation, a postsurvey was sent to see if there was an increase in staff awareness. Postsurvey results indicated that 100% of staff surveyed are now aware of the differences between professional and personal relationships; 95% of staff are now aware of the Baylor Health Care System Social Media Policy; and 76% of staff are now familiar with the National Council of State Boards of Nursing position on social media use. These results show an improvement in staff awareness about social media and professional boundaries when using social media sites. Implications for Nursing Practice Further studies are warranted to determine if nurses will change behavior regarding social media now that they are more knowledgeable about the issue.