Dr. Karen Dawn attended the International Council of Nurses conference in Barcelona, Spain, from May 27 through June 1. She joined more than 8,000 nurses from hundreds of nations to focus on nurses' roles in strengthening health care globally.
Highlights of the conference included an opening session on how nurses are the backbone of the health care system and discussions about the importance of sustainable health care — with an emphasis on the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. The conference also hosted sessions on how to best prepare nurses working in disaster response and conflict zones; the quality and safety of the workforce and workplace. Presenters offered innovative health care ideas on a wealth of topics, including home care in Scandinavia, the heart/mind connection's impact on overall health, the importance of exercise to well-being, fall prevention and innovations in nursing education.
“It was quite inspiring to be with such an outstanding group of professionals," Dr. Dawn said. "This conference has re-infused my focus on our profession and health care both locally and globally."
The International Council of Nurses (ICN) is a federation of more than 130 national nurses associations representing the millions of nurses worldwide. Operated by nurses and leading nursing internationally, the ICN works to ensure quality care for all and sound health policies across the globe, according to a media release from the organization.
She said the take-away message was “If you don’t have a seat at the table, bring your own chair."
"So, GW Nursing students, pull up a chair and join the discussion. We value your input and contributions," Dr. Dawn said.