Technology Policy

PURPOSE: To provide students with information regarding the acceptable use of technology in the classroom and clinical setting.

I. POLICY STATEMENT: The use of technology is an integral part of today’s classroom and clinical environment. However, when technology is used inappropriately it can also hinder the teaching, learning, and patient care process. Therefore, each professor will establish times when the use of technology in the classroom and in clinical is appropriate. During those times, the technology must be used for purposes that are relevant to the specific course and not distracting fellow students. Using technology at times other than those permitted by your course professor will be considered disruptive behavior and will result in disciplinary action as outlined in the Student Code of Conduct.

II. CLASSROOM

A. The Acceptable Use Policy for Computing and Information Technology Resources outline the responsibilities of each member of the community when using computing and information technology resources. This is put forth as a minimum set of standards for all areas of the University. http://www.it.umass.edu/security/acceptable-use-policy.

III. CLINICAL

  1. The Elaine Marieb College of Nursing abides by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing publication, “A Nurse’s Guide to the Use of Social Media” (https://www.ncsbn.org/3874.htm) and the ANA’S Principles for Social Networking and the Nurse (https://www.nursingworld.org/~4af4f2/globalassets/docs/ana/.../social- networking.pdf, 2011).
    1. Nurses must not transmit or place online individually identifiable patient information.
    2. Nurses must observe ethically prescribed professional patient nurse boundaries.
    3. Nurses should understand that patients, colleagues, institutions, and employers may view postings.
    4. Nurses should take advantage of privacy settings and seek to separate personal and professional information online.
    5. Nurses should bring content that could harm a patient’s privacy, rights, or welfare to be attention of appropriate authorities.
    6. Nurses should participate in developing institutional policies governing online conduct.
  2. 6 Tips to Avoid Problems
    1. Remember that standards of professionalism are the same online as in any other circumstance.
    2. Do not share or post information or photos gained through the nurse patient relationship.
    3. Maintain professional boundaries in the use of electronic media.
    4. Do not make disparaging remarks about patients, staff, fellow students or faculty, even if they are not identified.
    5. Do not take photos, videos or audio recordings of patients on personal devices, including cell phones.
    6. Promptly report a breach of confidentiality or privacy.

References: American Nurses Association. (2011, September). Principles for social networking and the nurse. Silver Spring, MD: Author. National Council of State Boards of Nursing. (2011, August). White Paper: A nurse’s guide to the use of social media. Chicago, IL