Digital professionalism: maintaining professional standards when using digital messaging platforms

Nurses and nursing students increasingly use digital messaging platforms such as WhatsApp to share information and support each other. While these platforms offer convenience and immediacy, the informal nature of communication tends to blur professional boundaries, which can lead to breaches of professional standards and in some cases to regulatory sanctions. This article explores nurses' professional responsibilities in relation to the use of digital messaging platforms and the potential consequences of unprofessional digital conduct. It provides advice on recognising unprofessional digital conduct, considers the challenges of speaking up about such behaviour, and discusses the importance of education and leadership in supporting digital professionalism. By aligning their digital conduct with their professional standards, nurses can uphold digital professionalism, thereby protecting patient confidentiality, preserving team cohesion and maintaining public trust.