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Staff at a hospital have been banned from using social networking websites after a picture of a nurse baring her breasts appeared on Facebook.

Northampton General Hospital confirmed that it introduced the security measure and had disciplined a number of employees after the image was discovered earlier this year.

It is understood the nurse in question revealed herself by lifting an item of clothing. Another associated image was not as revealing - but did inadvertently show a patient in the background.

Hospital chief executive Helen O'Shea said: "We were extremely disappointed on discovering the image, and took steps to have it removed immediately.

"The staff involved were disciplined, and we issued a reminder to all staff that we expect them to maintain patient confidentiality and professional standards at all times.

"I would like to reassure the public that this was an isolated incident and is certainly not typical of the behaviour of our nurses."