MUMBAI, 19th DECEMBER, 2024 (GPN): The 5th Nursing Conclave – NurCon 2024 – a national gathering dedicated to the nursing profession recently concluded in Mumbai. An initiative of Dr L H Hiranandani Hospital, Mumbai, the event witnessed enthusiastic participation from nurses across hospitals and nursing colleges state-wide.

The day-long conclave was inaugurated by Dr Niranjan Hiranandani, Chairman of the Hiranandani Group, and Dr Nilima Sonawane, Additional Director of Health Services (Nursing), Commissionerate of Health Services, Arogya Bhavan, Government of Maharashtra. Other distinguished attendees included Dr Sameer Kulkarni, CEO of Dr L H Hiranandani Hospital; Dr Lallu Joseph, National Secretary General of CAHO; Ms Saly Suseel, Chairperson of NurCon 2024; Ms Asmitha Garate, Organizing Secretary; and Ms Silvia Mathew, Joint Secretary of NurCon 2024.

In her welcome address, Ms Saly Suseel outlined the background and objectives of the 5th NurCon 2024, emphasizing the theme, “Celebrating Nurses’ Contribution to Healthcare.” She highlighted nurses’ vital role as the “unsung heroes” who form the heart and soul of healthcare.

Chief Guest Dr Nilima Sonawane addressed the pressing issue of nursing education quality. While acknowledging the excellent work of many reputable institutions, she cautioned against the proliferation of illegitimate colleges providing inadequate training. She stressed that under-trained individuals should not be classified as Nurses but as “Patient Care Assistants.”

Dr Niranjan Hiranandani, Guest of Honour, envisioned India as a potential global hub for professional nursing. Drawing parallels with the IT industry’s global success, he highlighted India’s vast talent pool. He advocated for establishing more quality nursing colleges and recruiting competent teaching staff to meet the international demand for skilled nurses.

Dr Sameer Kulkarni -CEO underscored the importance of nursing in hospital operations, stating, “Nursing is the backbone of any hospital. The quality of nursing services defines patient care standards and differentiates exceptional hospitals from ordinary ones.” He shared the hospital’s efforts to enhance nurse welfare, which reduced attrition rates from 70% to 35%, and to zero for middle and senior-level nursing roles at L H Hiranandani Hospital.

 

The conclave featured discussions on critical topics, including:

– Mentoring novice nurses

– Empowering new nurses for success

– Balancing nurse-patient ratios for quality care

– Human touch vs. technological assistance

– Smart technologies for patient safety

– Combating burnout in nursing

– Workforce well-being and supportive environments

– Leadership resilience and emotional intelligence in nursing

– Balancing clinical expertise with administrative responsibilities

– Addressing the nursing workforce crisis and future supply-demand challenges

Panel Discussion

The event concluded with a panel discussion titled “Global Perspective on the Nursing Shortage – Lessons from Around the World.” Moderated by Dr Sujit Chatterjee, the panel featured Dr Palakshi Manjarekar, Dr Sameer Kulkarni, Dr Parag Rindani, Dr Gracy Mathai, Dr Mugdha Lad, and Dr Manish Gupta. The discussion explored innovative solutions and global insights to address the nursing shortage.

For further information and media inquiries, please contact: 9820545985.

NurCon 2018, Hillside Avenue, Hiranandani Gardens, Powai, Mumbai – 400 076, India Ph: 2576 3333/ 3300, Fax: 2576 3311/ 2576 3344.