Inaugural global conference provides international perspective on safe practice, safe care

Greetings from the 1^st Global Conference on Emergency Nursing and Trauma Care! I have been afforded the opportunity to spend three days with almost 400 emergency nursing colleagues from 28 countries in Dublin, Ireland. And what an incredible opportunity it is been. Yesterday I was able to share my thoughts about how our bedside behavior can negatively impact patient safety, and how each of us needs to change our thoughts and attitudes about patient safety.

I also had an opportunity to share the findings of ENA’s research on workplace violence and what we need to do to change the culture of acceptance that is rampant in our profession. I have also been blessed with the chance to listen to emergency nursing researchers from around the globe share their insights and findings about our common practice.

I have said before, one of the most amazing things about emergency nursing is the opportunity we have to share our knowledge and experiences with our team members, and leverage that depth and breadth of knowledge to provide the safest, highest quality care possible. It’s the unique individual experiences and expertise that, when brought together, makes us stronger. At this meeting, I am reminded those strengths go way beyond the borders of the United States. The commonalities of issues and opportunities as they relate to the global profession of emergency nursing are staggering. Crowding, violence, throughput, patient satisfaction, patient safety, access to care, and care of vulnerable populations are just some of the topics discussed. The can-do attitude, passion, and desire for clinical excellence is evident in each speaker’s presentation. The conversations after and in between sessions provide a global snapshot of our profession: its successes, struggles, opportunities, and best practices.

It is truly an honor to be here representing ENA in this international venue. It’s clear to me ENA has a global reach, and many of our international colleagues have shared with me how they have used the tools, resources, and ENA courses in their practice. We are all working towards providing the safest possible care in a safe environment every time, and for every patient. To have the chance to attend this meeting and network with emergency nursing professionals from across the globe is really humbling. The quality of work and passion for our shared profession is outstanding.  I am so proud to be an emergency nurse today!