Have you ever attended a nursing conference? Have you considered attending one? Many nurses have no interest in going to conferences. Their reasons range from feeling they have no time, to thinking that these conferences are only for the academic-type nurses, and that they have no bearing on real-life nursing.

Annual or bi-annual conferences for all types of professions are held all over the world and you can find some conference, somewhere, just about any day of the year. Many times, conferences are held in holiday-type locations, but that doesn’t mean that serious work doesn’t get done. The people who put together the conferences and who organize the presentations work hard to provide quality information and education for the delegates.

Why should you attend a conference?

As nurses, we all have our specialties and niches. Many may not think they do, but a nurse who works primarily in homecare has a different skill set and knowledge base than a nurse who works in orthopedics or a neurological ICU. And, since nursing is truly a profession of life-long learning, what better way is there to learn the latest and greatest in your niche, among other nurses who work in the same area?

The people who present at workshops can provide you with the latest research in what is happening; experts talk about new techniques or approaches to care. By attending these workshops or lectures, you can bring back your knowledge to the nurses you work with and share sort of a “I’ll tell two friends and they’ll tell two friends…” type of network.

Besides the actual sessions, most conferences have poster presentations, where researchers, authors, and sellers present their information or wares in booths or at tables. Conference delegates wander around to see what’s available and what catches their eye. It’s a great way to learn and handle new products.

Expanding your network

Attending conferences is a wonderful way to meet other professionals who share your passion for your work. There are social dinners and hospitality rooms where you can mingle with nurses and other professionals from other parts of your state, your country, even the world. Most conferences set up tours and activities to do in off hours so you get to enjoy the treasures of the host city.

Paying for the conference

The subject of cost is often a major issue. If there’s a conference you’re interested in, perhaps you can approach your employer or nurses association to see if there are bursaries or funds that are available. Many places do offer financial assistance but don’t do a good job of letting people know. Remember, if you don’t ask, you can’t find out. Also, don’t forget the tax deductions that may be possible.

Give it a try

Some people make it a habit of attending conferences regularly. You can attend a general nurses’ conference and help make decisions about how your association represents you and your colleagues or you can attend specialty conferences. Whichever one you attend, doors open and you get to see glimpses of what else is out there in the big nursing world. Why not give a conference a try? You just may become a conference junkie.

By Marijke Vroomen-Durning

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