As a medical-surgical nurse, I recently had the honor of presenting my research poster, "Exploring the Impact of the Bedside Mobility Assessment Tool on Patient Outcomes", at the 2024 AMSN Annual Convention in Toronto. This experience not only allowed me to share my findings but also enriched my understanding of our shared mission: to enhance patient care through collaboration and continuous learning.

Connecting With Our Community

The 2024 AMSN Annual Convention brought together 800 passionate medical-surgical nurses who, like me, are dedicated to improving patient outcomes. The welcoming atmosphere fostered an environment ripe for sharing best practices and insights from the bedside. Engaging with fellow nurses allowed us to exchange ideas that could directly impact our clinical practice, highlighting the power of community in advancing our profession.

My poster presentation was a collaborative effort that exemplified the importance of teamwork in nursing. Working alongside physical therapists, occupational therapists, and fellow registered nurses, we explored how the Bedside Mobility Assessment Tool can effectively assess patient mobility and improve outcomes. This interdisciplinary approach not only enhanced our research but also reinforced the notion that diverse perspectives contribute to better patient care.

Learning From Leaders

One of the convention highlights was the opening keynote by Lee Rubin, which set an inspiring tone for the event. His breakdown of the five components of extraordinary teams (Competitors; Common Goal; Communicate, Communicate, Communicate; Chemistry; and Consistency) resonated deeply with me. Rubin’s insights served as a powerful reminder of the significance of trust in our work, emphasizing that “where there is no trust, there is no team.”

As we navigate the complexities of patient care, we must prioritize building trust and communication within our teams. This not only fosters a positive work environment but also directly translates to improved patient outcomes.

Resilience and Innovation in Nursing

The convention also addressed resilience in nursing, particularly the challenges many of us faced during the pandemic. A panel of frontline medical-surgical nurses shared their personal stories, illustrating the heart and grit that define our profession. These narratives were not only inspiring but also served as a call to action to support one another in our shared journey.

Moreover, the discussions around technological innovations, such as the use of artificial intelligence in patient care, provided a glimpse into the future of medical-surgical nursing. As we adapt to new tools and technologies, we must remain vigilant in understanding how these advancements can enhance our practice while considering their implications for diversity, equity, and inclusion in patient care.

Fostering Well-Being and Mentorship

An invaluable session focused on mental health and well-being for nurses. We learned practical strategies to manage stress and prevent burnout, essential tools for sustaining our commitment to patient care in a demanding environment. I am eager to share these insights with my colleagues, fostering a culture of well-being within our nursing team.

A particularly memorable moment was participating in a roundtable discussion focused on nurse leadership development. Hearing seasoned nurses share their journeys and the challenges they faced in stepping into leadership roles was both inspiring and enlightening. As I transition into a leadership position myself, this experience reinforced the importance of developing our leadership skills and our responsibility to advocate for our patients and the nursing profession. It reminded me that each of us has the potential to influence positive change in our workplaces and that fostering leadership among our peers is crucial for shaping a brighter future for medical-surgical nursing.

Moving Forward Together

As I return to my role in Miami, I carry with me the energy, insights, and renewed commitment to excellence gained from the AMSN Annual Convention. I am determined to implement what I learned, aiming for the PRISM Award to recognize our team’s dedication to outstanding patient care.

In conclusion, my experience at the AMSN Annual Convention was a celebration of our collective commitment to the nursing profession. I left feeling rejuvenated and inspired, equipped with new knowledge and a deeper appreciation for the collaborative spirit that defines our field. I am grateful for the opportunity to connect with fellow nurses and can’t wait for next year’s convention!