A First for Nursing in Wales

Dave Dayman kicked things off with a brilliant talk on Effective Teams, highlighting the importance of collaboration and communication. One thought-provoking idea he shared was the shift from asking for feedback to asking for advice. While feedback is still valuable, especially in organisations like HEIW where it's a key part of development, Dayman suggested that advice tends to feel more constructive, less personal, and more forward focused. By asking, “What advice would you give me for next time?” rather than “What did I do wrong?”, we create a more open, growth-oriented conversation. It’s not about replacing feedback altogether but enhancing how we learn and improve.

Russell Beck delivered an inspiring talk on the role of AI in nursing, emphasising that embracing technology is essential for the profession’s future. He explored how AI can significantly enhance nursing practice by improving productivity, supporting clinical decision-making, and enabling more personalised patient care. AI has the potential to automate routine and time-consuming administrative tasks such as documentation, scheduling, and triaging, allowing nurses to spend more time with patients. It can also analyse large volumes of patient data to provide timely, evidence-based insights that help identify risks, predict deterioration, and inform interventions. By harnessing this data, AI can support more tailored care plans that reflect individual needs and health patterns. Furthermore, AI can contribute to workforce sustainability by reducing duplication and streamlining processes, particularly important in today’s stretched healthcare system. Russell stressed that AI should not be seen as a replacement for nurses, but rather as a valuable partner that supports and strengthens the nursing profession. He encouraged nurses to actively engage in the conversation around AI, ensuring it is implemented in ways that genuinely enhance frontline care.

Lastly, Paul Redmond delivered a speech on multi-generational working, referring to the practice of different age groups, such as Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials, and Gen Z, working together in the same organisation. He highlighted that this diversity brings strengths such as varied perspectives, innovation, knowledge sharing, and mentoring opportunities. However, it can also present challenges, including differences in communication styles, varying levels of comfort with technology, and contrasting workplace expectations, all of which require thoughtful leadership and mutual understanding to navigate successfully.

Overall, the speakers did an excellent job of tying together the themes of our SNWP. Their future-focused perspectives left us feeling motivated and ready to tackle the challenges ahead. It was a day filled with learning, networking, and a shared commitment to improving the nursing profession. Here's to a bright future for nursing in Wales!”