How Social Media Use is Monitored by the Missouri State Board of Nursing

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Understanding the Risks of Online Activity and How It Can Impact Your Nursing License

Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter) have become part of daily life for many nurses across Missouri. While these platforms provide opportunities for professional networking, personal expression, and connection with peers, they also present serious risks to your nursing license. The Missouri State Board of Nursing has the authority to investigate and discipline nurses for online behavior that violates professional conduct standards—even if those actions occur outside of work hours.

How the Board Becomes Aware of Social Media Misconduct

Many disciplinary investigations begin with complaints from patients, coworkers, employers, or even anonymous tips. Posts that reference patient care, criticize coworkers or healthcare employers, or reflect unprofessional behavior may be reported to the Board. Even deleted posts or private messages can resurface through screenshots or formal investigations. If a post violates patient privacy laws, such as HIPAA, or creates the perception of impaired judgment or unprofessional conduct, the Missouri Board can open a formal complaint against the nurse.

Real Examples of Social Media Violations Leading to Discipline

Nurses across the country—and in Missouri—have faced discipline for the following types of online behavior:

  • Sharing photos of patients or patient rooms, even if identifying details were not visible
  • Posting intoxicated or reckless behavior that suggests impairment or judgment issues
  • Commenting negatively about patients, hospital policies, or management
  • Creating “nurse humor” content that portrays patients in a disrespectful light
  • Engaging in public arguments or online bullying under a profile that identifies them as a nurse
  • Offering unauthorized medical advice in social media forums or groups

In one Missouri case, a nurse posted a photo of a medication cart with patient identifiers visible in the background. A colleague alerted their supervisor, and the Board launched an investigation for a possible HIPAA violation and breach of professional boundaries. The nurse faced disciplinary action, including required remedial education and a formal reprimand.

Social Media Policies from the Missouri Board of Nursing

The Missouri State Board of Nursing refers to professional conduct standards under 19 CSR 20-20.100 and related rules within the Nurse Practice Act (Chapter 335, RSMo). These rules emphasize a nurse’s obligation to maintain confidentiality, demonstrate professionalism, and avoid conduct that may discredit the profession. When nurses post inappropriate content, they risk being found in violation of these standards—even if the content was posted on a personal account.

Protecting Yourself: Smart Social Media Habits

As a licensed professional, it is your responsibility to manage your online presence with caution. Avoid any mention of patients, procedures, or healthcare facilities in your posts. Never post during a shift or in a work setting. Set your accounts to private, but don’t rely on privacy settings as protection—nothing on the internet is ever truly private. Finally, think before you post: if it would raise eyebrows in a courtroom or a Board hearing, don’t publish it.

How Sanger Law Office, LLC Can Help If You Face a Complaint

If you’re a Missouri nurse under investigation for a social media post, you need experienced legal representation. Even if your post was made in jest, out of frustration, or unintentionally, the consequences can include censure, probation, suspension, or revocation of your nursing license. We have successfully defended nurses across Missouri facing allegations tied to online activity. Our legal team will help you craft a strong response, represent you before the Board, and work to preserve your professional standing.

Protect Your Nursing Career with Skilled Legal Representation

Don’t try to handle a Missouri Board of Nursing complaint on your own—especially when it involves something as sensitive and easily misunderstood as social media. At Sanger Law Office, LLC, we represent nurses throughout Missouri in professional license defense matters, including investigations related to online activity.

Call us today for a free consultation at (816) 520-8040. We’ll help you understand your rights, respond strategically to the Board, and protect the license you’ve worked so hard to earn.