DELEGATE NARRATIVES ~ 2023 AORN IN SAN ANTONIO
CAVELLE FREDERICK
The team for AORN Global Conference & Expo 2023 was “No Limits.” As an attendee and a chapter delegate it was a great experience to be amongst so many perioperative professionals in a range of positions. On the business side I was particularly impressed in the way in which the association was able to take suggestions and recommendations from the membership and adopt them into policy. It gave me a feeling of belonging and that every member really have a voice in the organization. I was elated that a fellow Texan from a neighboring chapter was elected president for the 2023/2024 year.
I have been to Expo a few times before and it never seize to amaze me how the general sessions always give a boost and renewing of my mind. This year was no exception. Although they were all unique and had different angles of motivational energy, I was particularly impressed with Clint Pulver the Drumline experience and Alex Sheen with the importance of a promise. As I sat and listen to Mr. Pulver’s story how one teacher took the time to channel a child’s energy and focus that changed the trajectory of that child’s life. As an OR nurse taking care of patients in their most vulnerable state, just taking the extra time to relief that patient’s anxiety or wait for a relative who is parking a vehicle can be of such value to the patient. Also in mentoring a young nurse I could have that same effect on him or her like the teacher had on Mr. Pulver, and not only that nurse but all the other nurses that her or she will mentor in the future.
Similarly in Mr. Sheen’s presentation “because I said I would” he emphasizes the importance of integrity when one’s word can be trusted. The example that most impressed me was the promise his boss’s daughter made to seek help rather than committing suicide which actually saved her life.
Two of chapter members presented educational sessions this year Peter Graves and J D Buchert. Peter spoke on surgical site infections while J D spoke on a muti-modal response to nursing stress and wellness. I thought their presentations were timely and very informative. Thank you for allowing me to represent our chapter as a delegate. There is truly no limits where our profession can take us.
TERRI GOODMAN
Attending AORN Congress is always a treat. (Calling the conference Congress dates me, but I’m proud to have been active in AORN for this long!) I've always found San Antonio a delightful environment for Congress and this year was no exception. I particularly enjoyed participating the business of the Association. The Forum and the House of Delegates give members the opportunity to engage in the management of our specialty. Decisions made on issues discussed during the business meetings determine the course of our practice. Members address challenges and make their position known to leadership. Active participation in a privilege, and being a delegate provides that opportunity. I was pleased with the enthusiasm of the Dallas delegation. It takes a dedicated group of people to influence others, set an example, and motivate them to invest time and effort in chapter activities. I hope we can sustain that energy level and encourage our fellow chapter members to participate in whatever way they can.
The most compelling activities I attended were the general sessions. I was completely taken with Cassendra Munro and her phenomenal contribution to the effort to prevent pressure injuries in surgical patients. That is the type of impact on perioperative practice that prepares one for a fellowship. The young man who presented Because I said I Would captured my attention, It's a valuable message and I feel sure that he influenced a great many people. Clint Pulmer's presentation was also compelling. I guess I'm a sucker for success stories, especially those that emphasize connection and support. At this point in my career, I'm focused on facilitating others' success, sometimes just by being a cheerleader, often by providing resources or contacts that help them move closer to their goals. Being at Congress and interacting with the young, enthusiastic nurses I met makes my career more meaningful and my role in it rewarding.