
Spring is in the air although I am not quite sure there was a winter this year. Spring, a time for renewal and rejuvenation which calls us to move forward with optimism and enthusiasm. For NJ ENA this year has started with renewed energy and excitement. I would like to take a moment to tell you about some of the accomplishments that have been made in just a few short months. - NJ ENA Government Affairs Committee was represented in Washington DC at ENA’s “Day on the Hill”.
Our voice was heard as issues such as drug shortages, overcrowding, placement of psych patients & workplace violence were discussed. - This February, NJ ENA was represented at NJ Student Nurses Conference in Atlantic City.
In addition to being an exhibitor, seven of our members presented topics in their area of expertise. - Several NJ ENA members attended ENA Leadership in New Orleans, in addition to a great
conference, NJ was presented with the National ENA State Achievement Award. - Our 34th annual Emergency Care Conference (ECC)in March broke attendance records
with over760 attendees. The evaluations are still coming in and from initial responses it seems like it was an overwhelming success. Kudos to all the committee chairs and volunteers who contributed to this achievement.
Upcoming ENA events - National ENA Elections: Voting polls open May 10th to June 8th. Candidate information and
statements can be found on the ENA website. Take the time to become informed. - Call for 2013 NJ ENA officers: The two open offices are President-Elect and Secretary.
Contact Anne Stefanoski if you are interested or would like additional information. - NJ ENA will be participating in the 2nd Annual Teen Safety Driving Summit to be held in
Freehold NJ on May 12th. If you are interested in volunteering contact Cheryl Newmark at cgnrn75@yahoo.com. If you want information about the summit, the website is www.njteendriving.com/good-driving
Our next state meeting will be held at on May 16th at 4 pm in the CAB (building) at Robert Wood Johnson Medical Center, New Brunswick (additional info & directions on the njena.org website). Please join us and see what NJENA is about. You do not have to be a member to attend and student nurses are welcomed. In closing, I just want to remind everyone to take advantage of these extra hours of daylight. As emergency nurses we work in one of the most stressful departments in a hospital, providing safe care under challenging circumstances. There are times the stress may seem overwhelming, therefore as the days get longer and spring turns into summer it is important to maintain a sense of balance and wellness. Take time to go for a walk, relax and feel the sun on your face, and, if possible, take some needed time off. As we journey through this life, never lose your sense of wonder and always remember to stop and smell the roses. Enjoy!! Regards, Pat |