Feeling good about breastfeeding!

There’s no higher place to get enthusiastic about nursing than at a nursing conference! This month, I spent 4 days in Denver, Colorado, on the Dermatology Nurses Association’s thirtieth anniversary convention. What an incredible group of nurses! From the keynote speech delivered by Dr. Michael R. Bleich, RN, FAAN, who motivated us to make the changes really helpful within the IOM Report on the Future of Nursing, to informative presentations by experts in the sphere, my days were filled. The camaraderie and networking amongst attendees and the interaction with exhibitors was phenomenal. I left there feeling great as a nurse and with the support of my peers – thanks, DNA nurses!

If you will be attending upcoming conferences, take a moment or two to read Final Word: 10 Tips for Getting the Most Out of a Professional Conference. Here are ten suggestions (but you should definitely read the complete article – it has some good advice!):

1. Choose your sessions strategically.
2. Networking is essential.
3. Dress the part.
4. Attend poster presentations.
5. Check out the exhibitions.
6. Comfort is significant.
7. Take care of those that look after you.
8. Show respect on your colleagues and speakers.
9. Stay organized in the course of the conference.
10. Be enthusiastic and share what you learn.

Also try our events calendar for a whole list of upcoming nursing conferences.

Next on my calendar is the Nursing2012 Symposium in April in Orlando. I hope to see you there!

Reference: Aldridge, M. D. (2012). A final word: 10 suggestions for getting probably the most out of knowledgeable conference.