The Goldilocks Effect – Connecting WOC Nurses in the North Texas Area through Social Media

In North Texas we are privileged to have an experienced group of WOC nurses practicing across multiple hospital systems. Connecting and sharing of ideas has always been a challenge. Our south central region is a bit too large because it includes 5 states. Local area meetings are difficult to attend based upon location and time. Large hospital systems have individual meetings but are a bit too small, involving only their team. Like Goldilocks, we needed a solution that would fit our group just right. Using social media helped solve our problem. An on-line social media page allows area WOC nurses to connect at a central location without a password or membership fee.

An updated, centralized list was needed for local WOC nurses and patients to access area resources. The social media site includes: a place to ask questions, shared resources, WOC events and educational opportunities for nurses or patients, employment opportunities, a directory of WOC nurses, outpatient resources and an ostomy trouble-shooting guide.

To date 94 nurses are listed in the directory. The group includes registered nurses and advanced practice nurses in acute care, industry, home health, nursing education and care management. As of October 31, 2015, there are 65 page likes and 69 group members. Comments have been positive from both patients and colleagues. We hope to continue to modify and make the page fit WOC nurses in North Texas just right.