Email is among the most commonly used forms of communication both personally and professionally. It is important to use this tool carefully to ensure our messages are received as intended, and that we don’t inadvertently send something harmful, to ourselves or others.

Here are a few tips to help you use email effectively:

Email Etiquette

  • Never communicate confidential information over email. This includes discussing the health and situation of a patient. Any email can be sent to the wrong person, intercepted or forwarded. Patient’s privacy must be respected at all times.

  • Avoid typing in all capital letters. Traditionally, all caps signifies yelling. Even if your capital lettered-email is indicative of excitement, it still appears unprofessional. As a general rule, all caps are always a bad idea. Similarly, avoid using emojis or symbols in a professional email message

  • Try to have serious or important conversations face to face or by telephone. Tone can be very difficult to decipher via email, and therefore important conversations should be avoided.

Social Media and Nursing Practice

How to use social media safely and responsibly as a nurse.

Picture and Video Recording in the Workplace

What are your rights when a patient or family member begins taking photos or recording you in the workplace?


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