Challenges & change - AfPP2011 leads from the front line

Challenges & change - AfPP2011 leads from the front line

The 2011 Congress and Exhibition, hosted by the Association for Perioperative Practice (AfPP) at Bournemouth International Centre, was successful in delivering a full programme of current educational content and the latest industry activities.

The event was hailed as “inspirational” and “highly relevant”, providing delegates with a thorough understanding of the fundamental changes to healthcare delivery announced in the Government’s white paper, alongside in-depth study of the clinical safety aspects of caring for perioperative patients.

AfPP 2011 featured a range of general, specialist and masterclass sessions designed to provide insightful training for practitioners at every level, combined with uplifting and motivating sessions for personal development.

Highlights of the event included an inspirational speech from extreme endurance athlete Andy McMenemy, whose session ‘Success is optional, change is mandatory’ gave delegates some tools in coping and leading teams through transformation and an evaluation of the implementation of the WHO Surgical Safety Checklist across NHS Trusts in England. In the Daisy Ayris Lecture, Dr Suzette Woodward focused on the closure of the NPSA and patient safety over the next decade; and the Siobhan Rankin Lecture featured Dr Mark Radford, who examined how practitioners and doctors can break down professional boundaries and set aside prejudices to enhance team working and improve patient care.

This year’s AfPP Innovation Awards were dominated by Medline Industries Ltd, who swept the board with success in the Patient Safety, General Surgery and Anaesthetics categories with their DASH® (Disposable Absorbent Secure Hold), EcoDrape® and PerfecTemp™ innovations, respectively. Medline’s Karen Roberts and Lee Wright were presented with the accolades by AfPP President, Tracy Coates, at the Delegate Welcome Evening.

Commenting on this year’s event, Tracy Coates said: “We were delighted to welcome to our event this year, particularly as practitioners are facing so many demands on their time that training and CPD are being squeezed out. By moving the Congress and Exhibition around the country we are making it accessible to a wider audience and we are confident that this can only benefit anyone who is involved in perioperative care.

“We look forward to seeing you all in Birmingham next year!”

For more information about AfPP visit www.afpp.org.uk