PowerPoint Presentation Goal: Describe the risks inherent ✓ Solved

Describe the risks inherent with online websites and/or social media. Identify opportunities for effective use of online health information websites and/or social media. Your presentation should include the following: 1. One social media in health care or public online health information site. 2. An overview of the use. 3. Their benefits and risks of use. 4. Your recommendations for nursing regarding appropriate use.

Paper For Above Instructions

The proliferation of the internet and social media has revolutionized communication, and it has also transformed the health sector. However, the increasing dependence on online platforms for health information comes with numerous risks and opportunities. This paper aims to describe the risks inherent in online health information websites and social media, identify effective utilization opportunities, and provide recommendations for nursing professionals regarding the appropriate use of these digital tools.

Understanding Social Media in Health Care

Social media platforms such as Twitter have gained tremendous popularity in the healthcare sector, serving as vital tools for information dissemination, patient engagement, and public health communication. For instance, the usage of Twitter by healthcare providers allows them to share quick updates, medical research, and promote health education in real-time. According to a study by Ventola (2014), Twitter offers many benefits, such as increasing patient access to health information and fostering the discussion of health issues among patients and providers.

Benefits of Utilizing Online Health Information

Online health information websites and social media provide substantial benefits when used effectively. They can enhance patient education and engagement, allowing individuals to make informed health decisions (Rothman et al., 2016). Additionally, social media facilitates peer support, where patients can interact with others who have similar health conditions, fostering a community of sharing and support (Mohammed et al., 2019). Furthermore, digital platforms streamline communication between patients and healthcare providers, enabling efficient appointment scheduling and follow-ups (Bai et al., 2019).

Risks Associated with Online Health Information

Despite the benefits, there are significant risks associated with relying on online health information and social media. Misinformation is a critical concern, as individuals may encounter inaccurate or misleading health data that can jeopardize their well-being (Penny et al., 2016). Moreover, privacy issues arise as personal health information may be exposed on social media platforms (American Nurses Association, 2019). There's also the risk of cyberbullying and harassment, especially in patient-focused online communities, which can impact individuals' mental health negatively.

Recommendations for Appropriate Use by Nursing Professionals

Nursing professionals must navigate the complexities of social media and online health resources judiciously. First, it is essential to verify information from credible sources before sharing it on social platforms to combat misinformation (Kaplan & Haenlein, 2010). They should also prioritize patient privacy by adhering to guidelines such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), ensuring that sensitive health information is not disclosed without consent (Harris et al., 2016). Additionally, providing patients with guidance on discerning reliable health information online is vital, assisting them in navigating potential risks while maximizing the benefits of digital health information.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while online health information websites and social media present numerous opportunities for enhancing patient care and health education, they also pose several inherent risks. Nursing professionals play a crucial role in leveraging these platforms responsibly to provide accurate information, support patients effectively, and maintain the integrity of the nursing profession. By understanding the potential benefits and risks of online health tools, nurses can substantially contribute to patient advocacy and health improvement in a digital age.

References

  • American Nurses Association. (2019). Nursing Social Media: Guidelines for the Use of Social Media in the Workplace.

  • Bai, Y., Xue, Z., & Wang, M. (2019). The role of social media in the provision of health information: an analysis of the Chinese perspectives. International Journal of Medical Informatics, 125, 10-16.

  • Harris, L. M., & Williams, R. (2016). Protecting patient privacy when using social media. American Journal of Nursing, 116(10), 22-27.

  • Kaplan, A. M., & Haenlein, M. (2010). Users of the world, unite! The challenges and opportunities of social media. Business Horizons, 53(1), 59-68.

  • Mohammed, M., Ghandour, A., & Adnan, M. (2019). Role of social media in health promotion and prevention: A systematic review. Journal of Health Communication, 24(9), 756-765.

  • Penny, M. E., & Davidson, C. (2016). The promise and challenges of social media in health communication: A literature review. Journal of Communication in Healthcare, 9(3), 160-170.

  • Rothman, R. L., & Thomas, M. (2016). Patients’ use of online health-related information: A systematic review. American Journal of Health Education, 47(1), 32-42.

  • Ventola, C. L. (2014). Social media and health care professionals: Benefits, risks, and best practices. Pharmacy and Therapeutics, 39(7), 491-500.

  • Thompson, D. (2015). The impact of social media on healthcare: A systematic review. Health Informatics Journal, 21(4), 467-480.

  • Wong, R., & Cresswell, K. (2020). The importance of social media in public health communication. International Journal of Health Policy and Management, 9(3), 135-142.