Nurses’ use of the Internet and social media: Does age, years of experience and educational level make a difference?

Abstract

Introduction: Does age, level of education, or years of experience influence nurses’ ability to use the Internet safely? As visionary nurse leaders, one has a responsibility to support nurses’ level of e-Professionalism and use of the Internet to extend virtual services to patients and the community. Numerous articles caution nurses on the legal, ethical, and moral concerns in using the Internet, but few studies research nurses’ use of the Internet based on age, years of experience, and level of education. Objective: To explore nurses’ use of the Internet and social media. Methods: Nurses were invited to complete an Institutional Review Board (IRB) approved 51 questions electronic survey. Results: Nurses shared information regarding use of the Internet. Statistically, significant findings were noted based on one’s age, educational level, and years of experience. Conclusions: Nurse leaders need to assess and educate nurses in using social media for personal and professional needs in order to enhance the delivery of virtual services.