For those interested: Pediatric Nursing Conference Will Mark 25th Anniversary, Honor And Educate Nurses

The 25th Annual Pediatric Nursing Conference, June 25-27, 2009, in Orlando, FL, will help nurses enhance their knowledge and skills at the point of care while celebrating their immense contributions to their patients.

The conference, which marks the journal's 25th anniversary, will feature four tracks: Physical Assessment and Laboratory Interpretation, Evidence-Based Practice and Research, Leadership at the Point of Care, and Clinical Potpourri. Participants may complete an intensive learning experience in one track, or they may custom-design their own program by mixing and matching different areas.

Attendees will also network with colleagues, attend special events, and view the latest products and services available in the exhibit hall.

Full program information and registration details are available on Pediatric Nursing's Web site, http://www.pediatricnursing.net.

Three pre-conference workshops are scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday, June 24-25. The Pediatric Nursing Certification Review Course: Unlocking the Door to Success, presented by Louise Jakubik, PhD, CRNP, RN-BC, will span both days and will prepare nurses for the Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN) exam with test-taking strategies, pediatric nursing content review and study tips (13 contact hours).

Sharpening Your Leadership Skills to Lead Effectively (June 25), presented by Michael B. Grossman, DM, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, will explore a variety of leadership topics, from developing a visionary plan to promoting teamwork strategies (6.5 contact hours.)Evidence-Based Practice, also on June 25, will be presented by Bernadette Melnyk, PhD, RN, CPNP, FAAN. The course is an intensive hands-on workshop focusing on using evidence-based practice in the pediatric setting (3.25 contact hours).

On Thursday, June 25, Andi Wasdovich, MSHA, BSN, BA, RN, will present the Opening General Session, "Nursing Excellence: Lessons Learned from Nightingale and Disney." Wasdovich will explore the characteristics that Walt Disney and Florence Nightingale share as role modes for creative thinking. An Opening Reception in the exhibit hall will follow this session, with refreshments and networking.

On Friday, June 26, esteemed nursing leader and author Bernadette Melnyk, PhD, RN, FAAN, will present a general session on "Evidence-Based Practice." Dr. Melnyk will discuss ways pediatric nurses can give patients the most authentic care possible as well as fulfilling their role as best-practice advocates.

Concurrent sessions will be held Friday, June 26, and Saturday, June 27. Topics include:

- Sharpening pediatric laboratory interpretation skills
- Keeping patients safe from medication-related errors
- Alternative techniques to sedating patients for CT scans
- Diagnosing and treating autism; current research findings
- Improving teamwork and communication in pediatric emergencies
- Assessing diabetes risk in obese children
- Reducing and preventing accidents and injuries on the way to school

The conference will offer attendees opportunities to participate in educational and career-enhancing activities as well as interactive and social events.

The Poster Session on Friday, June 26, will feature selected peer-reviewed research abstract submissions and clinical posters exemplifying practice innovations. That morning, participants will also have an opportunity to discuss ideas for articles and receive tips and feedback during the session Manuscript Development Consultation with Pediatric Nursing Editor. Pediatric Nursing Editor Veronica Feeg, PhD, RN, FAAN, will be on hand to guide and encourage authors.

In the Exhibit Hall, exhibitors from around the country will display their products and information services. This event also provides opportunities for participants to network with other pediatric professionals.

Complete registration information is available on Pediatric Nursing's Web site, http://www.pediatricnursing.net. For additional registration information or to request a brochure, contact Pediatric Nursing at East Holly Avenue, Box 56, Pitman, NJ, 08071-0056; or e-mail: stever@ajj.com.