WOC Practice in Cyberspace

In Brief WOC nurses have the opportunity to extend their practice geographically by using electronic media, also called telehealth or “practicing in cyberspace.” Currently, laws and regulations affecting this aspect of practice are in rapid flux. In addition, practicing electronically makes the ethical issues of choice, privacy, and confidentiality more acute. This article describes the current status of relevant legislation, discusses relevant ethical issues, and provides guidelines for WOC nurses who are considering the use of e-mail and video conferencing within their practice. An examination of the legal and ethical issues facing WOC nurses as they extend their practice with use of electronic media, also called telehealth or “practicing by cyberspace.”