2023 Neuroscience Nursing Annual Conference Featured Sessions

We look forward to seeing you in Orlando for the Neuroscience Nursing Annual Conference from Saturday, March 18 – Tuesday, March 21, 2023! View the schedule for a full list of the dynamic programming that will be offered.

2023 Pre-Conference Events

The following are extra-cost events, not included in the 2023 Neuroscience Nursing Annual Conference registration fee.

Saturday, March 18

8 am–12 pm EDT
Level: Intermediate
Track: Anatomy
(001) Brain Anatomy With 3D Correlation to Trauma, Stroke, and Other Pathology
Speaker: Linda Littlejohns, MSN RN SCRN CNRN FAAN
Member: $150
Non-Member: $200

Neuroscience patient care is built on a foundation of normal anatomy knowledge. This session will explore the normal structures, blood supply, lobes and deeper nuclei, brainstem, and cerebellum. In addition to slides and radiographic views, we’ll be able to demonstrate potential pathology in 3D on dual screens. We’ll discuss cases as we explore possible options for management. These 3D views greatly enhance understanding, prevention, and planning for complications in our challenging patients.

10 am-12 pm EDT
Level: Basic
Track: Anatomy
(002) Basic Neuroimaging: More Than Fifty Shades of Grey
Speaker: Cathy Cartwright, DNP RN-BC PCNS FAAN, and Rachel Malloy, MSN RN CNRN SCRN ANVP
Member: $75
Non-Member: $100

Interpreting neuroimaging gives an added dimension to understanding the complexity of the neuroscience patient. This presentation will discuss various neuroimaging modalities and the rationale for ordering each scan. Using case studies, neurological conditions and the appropriate imaging and interpretation will be highlighted. Correlation between diagnosis, exam, neuroimaging, and intraoperative findings will be emphasized. Understanding basic neuroimaging will enhance the nurse’s ability to care for patients by gaining a deeper understanding of their condition.

1-3 pm EDT
Level: Intermediate
Track: Spine
(004) Spine Anatomy and 3D Correlation to Trauma and Degenerative Disease
Speaker: Linda Littlejohns, MSN RN SCRN CNRN FAAN
Member: $75
Non-Member: $100

Visibility of the structures of the spine, spinal cord, peripheral nerves, and blood supply in 3D greatly enhances the understanding of pathology and symptoms in neuro patients. This session will discuss traumatic and degenerative findings in the spine and considerations when a critical structure such as the spinal cord is compromised due to age or damage to the spine or blood supply. We’ll discuss cases and radiologic findings as we compare normal anatomy to pathology.

1-3 pm EDT
Level: Intermediate
Track: Special Topics
(005) "Escape" and Explore Gamification
Speaker: Mary Guanci, MSN RN SCRN CNRN
Member: $75
Non-Member: $100

It’s not all fun and games! Well...maybe it would help? Lack of resources, staffing, preceptor availability, and nurses who are newer to neuro demand that we look for innovative ways to support nurses and ensure optimal care for patients. This session will explore the benefits of gamification as a tool to evaluate a nurse’s knowledge, clinical judgement, and teamwork. This interactive session will provide the participant the opportunity not only to be part of a “neuro escape” but also to design, develop, and test an escape of their own. Attendance spots may be limited, so please make sure you register to be part of this hands-on learning experience!

AANN is accredited as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation. All CE contact hours are subject to change as the Annual Conference approaches. 

2023 Keynote and Invited Speakers
Sunday, March 19

8–9:30 am EDT
Opening Remarks from AANN President Pat Lane &
Agnes M. Marshall Keynote Address
Inspired Nurse
Rich Bluni, RN

Health care—nursing in particular—is one of the few professions that affords one the opportunity to impact lives on such a profound level, not only physically but also emotionally and spiritually. Yet the same qualities that make the nursing profession so deeply rewarding can also make it a challenge for us to sustain our energy and passion over time. The “Inspired Nurse” presentation helps us maintain and recapture those elusive qualities. Those of us who call health care our life’s work must also take care of ourselves in order to be able to do the challenging physical, emotional, and intellectual work that it takes to serve others.

Monday, March 20

9:30-10:30 am EDT
Invited Speaker
Leadership Practice and Health Equity
Regina Cunningham, PhD RN AOCN FAAN

Join us to hear from Dr. Regina Cunningham, an accomplished nurse executive, scientist, and educator, who has made significant contributions to advancing nursing practice and clinical care. She has extensive experience in the organization and delivery of nursing service across the care continuum, with particular expertise in the use of nursing resources in care delivery systems. Dr. Cunningham served on the Future of Nursing 2020–2030 committee and is passionate about advancing nursing practice and
improving health equity.

View the schedule for a full list of the dynamic programming that will be offered.