The inaugural Northern California Nursing Research and Innovation Conference on May 14 and 15 2024, was a resounding success, bringing together over fifty research and evidence‑based practice (EBP) posters from enthusiastic and dedicated nurses – some of whom were presenting for the very first time. The two‑day event was a vibrant showcase of nurse‑driven initiatives, reinforcing Kaiser Permanente’s commitment to excellence in nursing practice and patient care.
Keynote speakers set the tone for the conference, with Dan Weberg, PhD, MHI, RN, FAAN discussing the future of AI in nursing and Erica Hooper, DNP, RN, CNS, CNL, PHN and Rayne Soriano, Ph.D., RN, NE‑BC emphasizing the importance of Caring Science within our Professional Practice Model.
The conference was a platform for recognizing outstanding work. Toby Marsh, MSN, RN, FACHE, NEA-BC, NCAL Regional Chief Nurse Executive and Vice President of Clinical Integration, captured the spirit of the event perfectly, stating, “The future is really bright. This is the best time to be a Kaiser Permanente nurse and nurse leader in Northern California.”
One of the standout moments was the Most Innovative Poster Award given to a team from the Antioch Medical Center. Mhagsy Celestino, MSN, CCRN, RN, RNM, proudly stated, “The Most Innovative Poster Award is dedicated to my wonderful CAUTI TeamChampions for their impeccable dedication and monitoring for success in promoting quality and safe care for our members.”
The Santa Clara Medical Center team led by Chief Nurse Executive, Stacy Alves, DNP, MS, RN, NEA‑BC, was recognized for the most abstract and poster submissions with 14 shared at the conference. The team from the Modesto Medical Center, led by interim Chief Nurse Executive, Betty Lopez, DNP, MPA, RN received the award for best poster design for their work improving the pediatric patient experience.
Dynamic and inspirational aptly describe the Research and Innovation Academy Conference. It was an opportunity for nurses to cross-pollinate best practices, challenge the status quo, and embrace a spirit of inquiry. As we continue to elevate nursing practice, we are reminded of the importance of caring for ourselves and our colleagues to provide the best care for our patients. The event also featured golden nuggets of knowledge on abstract preparation and becoming a peer reviewer for professional journals.
Congratulations to all the award recipients and participants for their exceptional contributions. Your dedication and innovation make Kaiser Permanente Northern California the best place to work and receive care. We look forward to continuing this journey of excellence and innovation together.
This conference was a testament to the power of collaboration and the relentless pursuit of excellence in nursing. A special thank you to Ifeoma Nnaji, DNP, RN, NI-BC, NPD-BC, NE-BC, FACHE for her exceptional leadership of the KP Nurse Scholars Research and Innovations Academy. Her dedication and guidance have been instrumental in fostering a culture of research and innovation within our nursing community