Digital engagement in nursing: a urology nurse's journey

Abstract

The use of technology is transforming society-underpinning communication, information gathering and collaboration. Indeed, 2013 may prove to be the tipping point for healthcare delivery. No longer are policies and guidance documents being produced solely on the basis of cautions and negatives. We are entering a new era. Documents are now being produced that are constructive, focusing equally on positives and collaboration. Digital engagement within nursing and healthcare communities can be a tremendously positive experience; with the help of online resources, we can be part of the tipping point. From micro blogging to content communities, from collaborative projects to social networking, Web2.0 technology is providing 21st-century practitioners with opportunities we have not yet fully realised the potential of-for ourselves, our patients or our institutions. In this article, I share my personal journey, aiming to show my fellow healthcare practitioners how these technologies might be used to inform and improve nursing practice, within urology and beyond.

Twitter journal clubs and continuing professional development: An analysis of a #MedRadJClub tweet chat

“…There may be an equalising effect using social media, especially for junior HCPs who feel intimidated in a group of senior staff. 27 Participation can be highly active or passive ("lurking") on Twitter, both can facilitate learning to different degrees. 22 One participant commented that people are "more likely to join a discussion with limited knowledge or experience using SoMe (social media).…”

“Tipping point” concept analysis in the family caregiving context

“…Many papers used the definition provided by Gladwell (back cover), “that magic moment when an idea, trend or social behavior crosses the threshold, tips, and spreads like wildfire”; but other similar definitions were evident. Examples included: “the point of no return; the critical juncture”, (p. 15); “the dramatic moment when something unique becomes common”, (p. S12); “a critical threshold”, (p. 600); “the point at which the change achieves critical mass”, (p. 300); “the one dramatic moment when everything can change all at once, (p. 3); and “a social revolution”, (p. S28). The expression “enough is enough” was used to define tipping point, (p. 5) which lent support to also considering colloquial definitions in this analysis.…”