Question

Nursing Ethics in the Digital World

Social networking is another area of concern. During one of the clinical experiences at the hospital, you become aware of the staff nurse who likes to take photos of patient’s wounds so that she has a record of them for her charting at the end of the shift. Using the nursing informatics principles, analyze the ethical and legal implications of nursing informatics regarding this scenario.

Answer 1

According to this scenario by taking pictures of the patient and their wounds may lead to exposing sensitive information to unauthorized personnel through social networking sites.

Data breaches can occur if information is not secured, or if it is misused. Violations of privacy laws and regulations may include:

• Illegally accessing patient details.
• Losing electronic devices.
• Not shredding printouts with private info.
• Texting patient information.

1. Major legal issues related to the use of mobile and social media applications in clinical practice include liability under tort law.
2. Potential use of mobile applications as expert witnesses in the courtroom.

3. Legislation governing privacy and confidentiality.
4. Exploiting medical social-media in healthcare applications requires a careful reflection of roles and responsibilities.

5. Availability of data and information can be useful in many settings, but the abuse of data needs to be prevented. Preserving privacy and confidentiality of online users is a main issue, as well as providing means for patients or Internet users to express concerns on data usage.
6. Most relevant issues in social-media applications are confidence and privacy that need to be carefully preserved.