Facebook dental nurses risk GDC discipline

13 May 2008

Dental nurses in a Facebook group called 'I'm a dental nurse and I hate patients because...' have attracted the unwanted attention of the General Dental Council.

Under 'Group Info' on the Facebook page members are described as "dental nurses who are sick of patients and their bad attitudes, their stupid comments, their bad personal hygiene and the way they assume it's OK to burp in your face."

Pam Swain, Chief Executive of the British Association of Dental Nurses, has posted a comment on Facebook stating:

"As Chief Executive of the British Association of Dental Nurses, I must advise all UK registered dental nurses (and those hoping to register later in order to be able to work as a dental nurse in the UK), of the General Dental Council's Standards for Dental Professionals - specifically, "treat patients with respect and dignity" and "maintain patient confidentiality". The GDC is aware of this Facebook group and is considering disciplinary action against any UK registered dental nurse who has breached these Standards by posting inappropriate comments on this Wall.

"I would therefore advise any UK registered dental nurses to remove themselves from membership of this Group and to delete any inappropriate postings made in their name as soon as possible."

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