Issue 3, Monday 19 February 2001

International nursing conference looks at best practice

The School of Nursing hosted an international conference at the campus last week dealing with practice development for nursing professionals.

‘Practice makes perfect’ provided an opportunity for professionals in a range of nursing disciplines to explore the concept of developing best practice initiatives and techniques in their fields.

Participants had the option of attending a one day conference as well as a three and a half days residential program.

Keynote presenters include Professor Brendan McCormack, Professor of Nursing research at the University of Ulsters/Royal Group of Hospitals Trust in Belfast, Ms Kim Manley, CBE, Practice Development Head of the Royal College of Nursing Institute, and Associate Professor John Loughran from the Faculty of Education at Monash.

According to conference convenor, School of Nursing lecturer Dr Jenny Newton, the conference and following residential program provided an important forum for disseminating practice development initiatives in Australia and beyond.

"The conference focused on the relationship between practice development and research and evaluation activities as well as ways to facilitate the move to evidence based care in a range of nursing environments," she explained.

"The concept of practice development provides a process for continuous improvement in patient care enabling nurses and other members of the health care team to change clinical practices, which is of vital importance for the overall improvement of quality patient care."

The conference was held on Monday 12 February at the campus with the residential program commencing on Tuesday 13 February and continuing through to Thursday 15 February at the Peninsula Country Golf Club in Frankston.

Keynote speakers at the 'Practice Makes Perfect' conference Professor McCormack and Ms Manley.

Farewell to Diana Macmillan

Diana Macmillan, who has worked at the School of Nursing for 12 years, has recently announced her retirement.

Colleagues and friends of Diana's are invited to a farewell function on Wednesday 28 February at 4 pm at the Seahorse Tavern.

Drinks and finger food will be served.

If you would like to attend and/or contribute to a gift, please contact
Kate Duyvestyn by Friday 23 February, 2001 on extn 44148 or email
kate.duyvestyn@nursing.monash.edu.au

Notice board

The first Monash Peninsula Staff Social Club function for 2001 will be held on  Friday 2 March at the MONSU BBQ area at 5 pm. First drink is free for social club members.