By Dawn Pauli, contributing writer

The topic of Oakland University’s School of Nursing’s first-ever conference is a hot-button among the medical community, patients and the media.

The seminar, co-sponsored with Beaumont Hospitals’ Nursing Leadership, is called “Nursing’s Impact on Patient Safety and Error Prevention” and will feature national experts in nursing from throughout the country.

The program will explore where, how and why errors occur and examine ways to improve patient outcomes. The agenda includes three speakers and two moderated panel discussions and will be held on OU’s campus Tuesday, May 11, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Oakland Center.

“Nurses are on the front lines, and they are responsible for the hour-to-hour care patients receive,” said Jim Pearl, development officer for School of Nursing. “Unfortunately, with the nursing shortage, they are spread thin. Anything we can do to share information about this vitally important topic is good for nurses and good for the community.”

Response to the seminar is exceeding expectations, Pearl said. To date, more than 205 nurses, faculty, staff and students are registered to attend.

The partnership between the university and William Beaumont Hospitals provides students and faculty access to education, practice and research opportunities, including OU’s Beaumont Graduate Program of Nurse Anesthesia.  

“It’s a win-win situation,” Pearl said. “Beaumont has done a tremendous amount of good things, including funding programs and scholarships. They have recruited an unbelievable number of OU grads. Beaumont has an excellent reputation as a health system. They excel in all areas, including patient care and research.

“The partnership helps to strengthen OU’s nursing program.”

Seminar registration information is available on the School of Nursing Web site.