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We have this nurse at work. We'll call them "C". C posts inappropriate things on facebook. Nothing to violate privacy laws, but enough to be unprofessional. Openly taking down about the facility, staff and management. Management is aware and asks C to delete the posts. We all signed a social media policy, but it isn't enforced. I am embarrassed to work with C. Co-workers have tried to talk to C and explain that their actions are less than appropriate. Thoughts?
a major social media defense rests on that whole freedom of speech thing, you may have heard about it
Freedom of speech doesn't mean you can say/write anything you want about anybody at any time without any repercussions -- it basically just means that the government can't punish you for badmouthing the government.
Back in the day, it was "treason" to say anything bad about the king or queen, even if it was completely true. People were beheaded, imprisoned, had their property taken away, etc., for such offenses. Freedom of speech protects the right to speak your mind without criminal conviction.
It does not, however, allow you free rein to say/write whatever you want without any consequences. Libel/slander are still against the law, and if you engage in either against your employer, you're likely to find yourself applying for new jobs.
tnbutterfly - Mary, BSN
83 Articles; 5,923 Posts
Moved to General Nursing.