Pitman, NJ – Dermatologic RNs, LPNs, nurse practitioners and medical assistants will gather in Washington, DC, to discover the latest patient care practices and celebrate the Dermatology Nurses’ Association (DNA) 25th Anniversary Convention, February 1-4, 2007.
Participants, from novice to experienced practitioners, can expect to hear from experts in the nursing, medical and research communities during education sessions on such topics as general dermatology, lasers, professional practice, cosmetic dermatology, research and advanced practice. Program planners have also incorporated roundtable and panel discussions, increased interactivity with the faculty and additional panel presentations into this year’s program.
In addition to education sessions, participants will network with colleagues, attend special events, earn continuing education credits and explore the latest products and technologies in the expanded exhibit hall.
Throughout the convention, attendees will focus on the future of dermatology nursing as DNA celebrates its 25th Anniversary. Members will look back to when DNA was formed in 1982 and reflect on memorable moments in the association’s history. DNA will also recognize those who have been DNA members for 25 years.
The complete registration brochure is available on DNA’s Web site, www.dnanurse.org.
Program
On Thursday, February 1, seven pre-convention education activities will be offered, including the Nurse Practitioner Forum, a speaker panel designed for the advanced practitioner. A renowned group of dermatology experts will discuss medical/legal issues, systemic disease in the pediatric population and nail disorders. The Forum will continue on Friday, February 2, with discussions of contact and allergic dermatitis, patch testing and lasers.
Other pre-convention workshops will cover dermatology nursing basics, dermatology surgery, phototherapy, dermatology nursing certification, wound care and cosmetics.
On Friday, February 2, keynote speaker Alvin Law will open the conference with his inspiring address “Everybody Counts... And So Do You.” Law, a Thalidomide baby, was born without arms. He will share his life story, how his family taught him he could be whatever he wanted, and how he uses his feet to do just about everything. His humor, seriousness and honesty are sure to elevate the attendee experience.
Concurrent sessions will run from Friday, February 2, through Sunday, February 4. Topics include:
- Nurses’ roles in treating patients with skin cancer
- Basic and advanced wound care
- Nursing image in the media
- Protecting skin for life
- Incorporating cosmetic procedures into practice
- Connections between psychiatry and dermatology
- Influencing legislative change
Special Events
DNA will hold a special celebration for its 25th Anniversary during the opening reception on Thursday, February 1. DNA believes professional networking is key to the success and future of the organization, and welcomes all attendees to participate and enjoy music, light hors d’oeuvres and beverages.
In addition to the pre-convention workshops, attendees may participate in two half-day workshops on Saturday, February 3. The Skin Cancer Workshop will cover the latest in research, education and management. Attendees will hear from experts on sun protection, diagnosing and managing melanoma and sun safety curricula used for school-age children. The Patch Testing Workshop will orient dermatology nurses to the role of patch testing in diagnosing and managing contact dermatitis.
Throughout the convention, participants may attend several corporate-sponsored breakfast, lunch and dinner symposia. Topics include dermatology care for skin of color, managing psoriasis with TNF therapies and the benefits of a daily skin care regimen.
Certification Exam
The Dermatology Nurse Certification Exam will be offered on Saturday, February 3. Pre-registration is required. For more information, visit DNA’s Web site, www.dnanurse.org/certification, or contact C-NET at 800-463-0786.
DNA will also be pilot-testing a certification exam for nurse practitioner members of DNA at this year’s convention. The deadline to apply for the test sitting is December 15, 2006. After this date, those interested in registering for the pilot exam may apply on-site, Saturday, February 3, 2007, at 2:00 p.m. in the Conference Theater, Hyatt Regency Crystal City.
Continuing Education
This educational activity is provided by the Dermatology Nurses' Association. Contact hours will be given for the pre-convention education activities, education sessions, special education workshops, and sponsored symposia.
DNA is accredited as a provider of continuing nursing education by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Commission on Accreditation (ANCC-COA).
DNA is a provider approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing, Provider Number CEP5708.
Registration
Complete conference registration information and on-line registration are available on DNA’s Web site, www.dnanurse.org. For additional information, contact DNA’s National Office, East Holly Avenue Box 56, Pitman, NJ 08071-0056; phone: 800-454-4DNA or 856-256-2330; e-mail: dna@ajj.com.
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The Dermatology Nurses’ Association (DNA) is a professional nursing organization comprised of a diverse group of individuals committed to quality care through sharing knowledge and expertise. DNA’s core purpose is to promote excellence in dermatologic care.