Social Media Addiction ‘Adversely Affecting’ Nurses’ Performance

Addiction to social networking sites is affecting nurses’ performance and their ability to concentrate on their work, according to a new study.

The study, published in the Journal of Advanced Nursing, suggests addiction to social networking sites is “becoming commonplace” among nurses and this risks damaging patient care. It said hospital managers should consider limiting the use of social media at work and also provide training in “self-management” skills that can help nurses avoid distractions.

One of the key findings was that being distracted while trying to complete a task led to things being done less well.

“Management should provide nurses with an environment where there is no distraction like mobile ringtones and social networking site applications’ beeps so they can perform their duties more effectively,” said the paper.