Celebrating a Decade of Innovation: Highlights from the 10th Annual FNA Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice Conference

September 17, 2024

The 10th Annual FNA Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice Conference was held on July 27, 2024, at Harry P. Leu Gardens in Orlando, FL. This event gathered nursing professionals and researchers statewide to discuss innovative practices, share groundbreaking research, and collaborate on advancing the field of nursing.
Key Highlights:

Opening Keynote: Dr. Ashley Rivera delivered a powerful presentation on “Preserving Advocacy Research in an Anti-DEI Political Climate,” addressing the challenges nursing researchers face in advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion. She emphasized the need for resilience and strategic advocacy to maintain DEI principles in nursing research and practice.
Podium Presentations:

Caroline Chu from Orlando Health discussed strategies for decreasing blood culture contamination rates in emergency departments, focusing on meticulous techniques and continuous education to improve diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes.
Dr. Susan Bednar from Aspen University presented on implementing screening protocols for adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) during prenatal care, highlighting the importance of early identification and intervention to improve long-term maternal and child health outcomes.
Dr. Karen Aul, Dr. Kailey Rinaldi, Dr. Brittany Nettles, and Dr. Lauren Boardman, from the University of South Florida, University of Florida, University of North Florida, and University of Tampa, presented a collaborative study on food insecurity among nursing students. The presenters highlighted its significant impact on students’ academic performance and well-being and called for institutional support and interventions.
Kristina Perez from West Kendall Baptist Hospital highlighted the benefits of evidence-based clinical audits, showing how systematic evaluations can lead to improved clinical practices and patient care quality.

Poster Presentations: The conference showcased 78 posters covering diverse categories such as clinical practice, community health, ethics, evidence-based practice, nursing education, and technology. These presentations facilitated dynamic discussions and networking, underscoring the conference’s commitment to advancing nursing practice and patient outcomes.
Closing Keynote: Dr. Lois Marshall concluded the conference with a presentation on “The Impact of the FNA Research and Evidence-Based Practice Conference: The First 10 Years and Moving Forward to Infinity and Beyond,” reflecting on the decade’s achievements and outlining a visionary roadmap for future nursing research and practice.

Overall, the 10th Annual FNA Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice Conference successfully fostered knowledge exchange, professional growth, and a commitment to advancing the nursing profession through research and evidence-based practice.