Evidence-Based Practice for Nurses

True/False

1. The Internet is fast becoming the first place Americans look for information about science
   and technology.


2. Collaboration is needed for the successful use of technology to disseminate best practices.


3. Electronic journals are easily accessible from any library website.

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE 19-3

How did you do? 1. T; 2. T; 3. F

19.4 Making the Most of Conferences

At the end of this section, you will be able to:

‹ Demonstrate professional behaviors when attending conferences

‹ List strategies to get the most out of conference attendance

Not only are conferences excellent venues for dissemination of new knowledge,
but they also provide opportunities for developing connections with colleagues
who have similar interests, meeting experts in the field, and exploring career
opportunities. Nurses are drawn to conferences with themes that are compat-
ible with their interests so they can participate in meaningful exchanges of
ideas (McIntyre, Millar, & Thomas, 2007). Sometimes, employers send nurses
to conferences that fit with organizational goals (Brown & Schmidt, 2009). For
example, a hospital administrator may send several nurses to a conference on
how to apply for Magnet Recognition. Nurses may also be sent to conferences
if education is needed to comply with governmental or accrediting regulations
(Murray, 2008). If nurses are active in professional organizations, they may at-
tend conferences as delegates. Conferences that assist nurses to meet professional
goals merit consideration (Murray, 2008). For example, it may be wise for nurses
to select conferences that offer continuing education units if that is required for
license renewal. Conference participants should take full advantage of networking
opportunities to make the most of their experiences (Brown & Schmidt, 2009).

Maintaining a professional demeanor at all times is advantageous because you
never know who you might meet or what opportunities could arise (Brown &
Schmidt, 2009). For example, it is possible to be offered the opportunity to interview
for a position with a leading expert in your specialty. Invitations to collaborate
on papers and research studies are not uncommon. For individuals considering

19.4 Making the Most of Conferences 507