Leveraging Social Media in #FamilyNursing Practice

Abstract

The use of social media to find and disseminate health information is rapidly increasing worldwide. It is essential for family nurses to participate in this trend, and to meet our clients where they are, on social media. Nurses can use social media to promote family health, reduce illness suffering, and meet family needs for information and support. As well, social media provides a way to build relationships with families outside of the physical health care setting or clinic. It is important to understand the types and potential uses of social media, as well as the risks and pitfalls. Standards for e-professionalism must be maintained. Through using social media, family nurses can increase their reach and effectiveness for family health promotion.