Experiences to share

Two recent recipients of the NCAPAN Memorial Scholarship have provided a summary of their experience attending ASPAN's 44th National Conference. 

From Scholarship Recipient Robin Davis

Reflections on ASPAN’s 44th National Conference

This year, I had the privilege of attending my ninth ASPAN National Conference—an experience that continues to inspire and energize my professional journey. My first conference was the 29th Annual Meeting in New Orleans in 2010. I vividly remember returning home brimming with enthusiasm, eager to share the wealth of knowledge and innovative ideas I had encountered. Looking back, I now realize how much I’ve grown in understanding how to truly maximize the value of these conferences. With each subsequent event, I’ve gained deeper insight into the many layers of professional development, collaboration, and advocacy that these gatherings offer.

The week begins with the Representative Assembly (RA) on Sunday, a foundational component of the conference. This assembly is where perianesthesia nursing standards, practice recommendations, and interpretive statements are reviewed and voted on by delegates from each component. North Carolina, for example, is represented by two delegates. This year, one of the key topics of discussion was a proposed practice statement regarding waste anesthetic gases (WAG) in the post-anesthesia care unit. The topic sparked robust debate, with compelling arguments presented on both sides. While a final resolution was not reached, the issue will be revisited later this year after further data and insights are collected.

Networking is another invaluable aspect of the conference. ASPAN provides a user-friendly app called Whova, which facilitates connections among attendees with shared interests. I had the opportunity to meet with fellow PreAdmission Testing Managers during an informal evening meetup. Despite being from different states, five of us gathered to discuss common challenges and exchange strategies for improving patient care and team efficiency. Since returning home, we’ve continued our dialogue via email, collaborating on solutions and sharing resources—demonstrating the lasting impact of these professional relationships.

Attending educational sessions is essential. I make it a priority to participate in as many presentations as possible and to engage with medical vendors to stay informed about emerging technologies and best practices. The conference also offers access to recorded sessions, allowing attendees to revisit content or catch up on topics they may have missed. When faced with overlapping sessions, I typically choose the one where I anticipate having questions for the speaker and plan to watch the other later. This approach ensures I stay engaged and make the most of the learning opportunities available.

Finally—and perhaps most importantly—it is vital to bring the knowledge and enthusiasm gained at the conference back to your workplace. Sharing insights with colleagues not only reinforces your own learning but also fosters a culture of continuous improvement and professional excellence. Whether through formal presentations, informal discussions, or collaborative projects, disseminating this information helps elevate the standard of care across your department. Moreover, by championing the value of professional organizations like ASPAN, you encourage others to become active participants in shaping the future of perianesthesia nursing. Your voice matters—use it to advocate for evidence-based practice, patient safety, and the ongoing advancement of our specialty.

 

 From Scholarship Recipient Melissa Hufham

The Importance of Attending Nursing Conferences in Clinical Coordination Role

Attending nursing conferences is a vital component of professional growth and excellence in clinical coordination. These events provide a unique platform to stay informed about the latest evidence-based practices, healthcare innovations, and regulatory updates that directly impact patient care and operational efficiency.

As a Clinical Coordinator, participating in conferences enhances your ability to lead interdisciplinary teams, implement quality improvement initiatives, and support staff development. Conferences offer access to expert-led sessions on topics such as patient safety, care transitions, and clinical workflow optimization—key areas in your field.

Moreover, networking with peers and thought leaders fosters collaboration and the exchange of practical solutions to common challenges. It also reinforces your role as a change agent within your organization, empowering you to bring back actionable insights that can elevate care standards and team performance.

In essence, nursing conferences are not just educational—they are strategic opportunities to advance your leadership, contribute to your organization’s goals, and ultimately improve patient outcomes.

And of course, I can’t leave out the President’s Reception—a memorable event that celebrates our shared commitment to nursing excellence. It’s a chance to unwind, connect with colleagues in a relaxed setting, and be reminded of the passion and pride that unite our profession.