Might not graduate over FB

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Can a nursing program not allow you to graduate for a post on FB that doesn't violate any school, board or HIPPA policies? I passed all my courses. Graduation is next week and they are letting people who failed exits graduate!

Anyway, I said I thought a tech was a *****. I deleted it. But someone on my friends list that goes to my school printed it out and gave it to my director. (Why would someone do that). So now the program is threatening to take my graduation away after I passed everything with really good grades. The dean doesn't seem to be helpful either.

Sorry this unfortunate event is happening to you. If you do make it out of this situation w/ your nursing degree intact (or even if you don't), use this experience for good and make sure to educate anyone who will listen about the repercussions of a poorly thought out internet post. ((Hugs))

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That's the plan. This is the reason I do not allow my oldest to use social media. Momma didn't follow her own advice

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Specializes in Critical Care, ED, Cath lab, CTPAC,Trauma.

You may want to consult a lawyer....we can't give legal advice here....however the school can set any policy they wish and this falls as "professional conduct".

WHY! are people still doing this? Leave anything school/work related OFF social media.

I wish you the best.

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It's not libel or slander if it is her opinion and not a fact. But you should really contact a lawyer if the meeting is not in your favor!

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

In your favor, you removed it quickly. Though you did not verbalize your opinion to the staff member posting online is the equivalent of shouting in a public area, clearly you realize this now. Your intent appears to be to vent and realized you chose the wrong forum.

There is nothing more to do now but hurry up and wait.

Though while not libel or slander it could fall under the blanket of "professional conduct". Many schools & employers consider FB posts to be public actions especially if can be linked back to the school or facility. Right or wrong, it's reality.

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Specializes in OR, Nursing Professional Development.
Pretty sure FB is considered along the lines of free speech. While it wasn't a smart thing to post, you could tell them you will be contacting the ACLU.

Free speech is only limited to the government not being allowed to place restrictions. Additionally, there is no guarantee that one's use of free speech will be free of consequences- no such guarantee exists. Private entities, such as one's school, one's workplace, or even internet sites such as this (it's true- read the terms of service) can place restrictions. After all, as a student or employee, one is often considered to be representing the school or facility, whether on the clock or not.

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Also realize there is a difference between "graduate" and "graduation". Your school may allow you to "graduate", as in get your degree, send your verification of education to the BON, etc without allowing you to participate in "graduation", which is often seen as a privilege. If your school denies you the ability to "graduate" I would retain legal counsel ASAP, as you have completed all requirements to graduate required by the school. IDK the legality of them not allowing you to "graduate" or not participate in "graduation", so either way a consult with a lawyer might be wise if the meeting did not go in your favor.

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Well I prayed along with my family and they are allowing me to proceed and graduate. I thanked the Lord and I will definitely think before I post.

I agree, I am representing my school and that made the program plus myself look bad.

Next time I have something in my mind about someone, I will keep it there

I find it funny how it all happened though, because I hardly ever post on FB.

Lesson learned, a great lesson learned.

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You got way too excited and post without thinking.You are a mother and a nurse to-be,think thoroughly before doing anything next time-not only on social media but use your judgment when dealing with patients too.Thank your stars.Goodluck.

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Specializes in Critical Care, ED, Cath lab, CTPAC,Trauma.
Well I prayed along with my family and they are allowing me to proceed and graduate. I thanked the Lord and I will definitely think before I post.

I agree, I am representing my school and that made the program plus myself look bad.

Next time I have something in my mind about someone, I will keep it there

I find it funny how it all happened though, because I hardly ever post on FB.

Lesson learned, a great lesson learned.

I am SOOOOOOOO relieved for you!!!!

Teach your children NOTHING on facebook. Instead of calling someone a name say...I had a difficult time with someone. Better yet NOTHING in writing EVER about work, school, your co-workers EVER! Your co-workers/classmates are not your friend...I learned that one the hard way.

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That is great news! I'm so glad it worked out for you. Better you learn this lesson in school than in the workplace and jeopardize losing a job.

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

Congratulations. Tough lesson but at least it didn't cost you your degree, license or a job. A few new gray hairs and may be some heartburn & insomnia. ;)

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