Shillong, March 09: A state-level conference on empowering nurses in palliative care, organized by the CNE Cell of Supercare Hospital, was held on March 8, 2024, at SICPAC and LARITI, Mawdiangdiang.
The event was attended by over 600 delegates from across the state, with over 400 delegates from the state’s periphery. The conference was graced by esteemed guest Ms. Abanti Gopan, a nursing consultant renowned for her insights in palliative care.
Ms Gopan who is a strong proponent of Nurse Empowerment, has the unique distinction of being an accomplished Nurse Administrator and Educationist to serve as a beacon of inspiration to many nurses.
She had highlighted the deficit in palliative care awareness among the public and emphasized the importance of spreading knowledge about palliative care, which Supercare Hospital has taken up with great spirit on the occasion of International Women’s Day.
The turnout of the conference was a positive sign as there was a large audience in attendance which indicates a strong interest and support for recognizing the power and influence of women in the field of nursing.
The Nursing Superintendent of Supercare Hospital, Ms. Mary B Lyngdoh, expressed the team’s commitment to educating more nurses on palliative care. Palliative care is an emerging specialty area within the nursing profession and this conference was conducted to emphasize the importance of spreading this knowledge in rural areas.
Ms. Jasmine Kharphuli, the observer for the event, commented that the conference provided valuable insights in palliative care, including how to assess and manage various common symptoms and its contribution to enhancing nursing skills in palliative care.
A delegate noted that the conference’s focus on palliative care is crucial, given the rising number of cancer cases in the state and the limited facilities available. They believe that the conference will help upgrade nurses’ knowledge and skills in palliative care, benefiting the state’s healthcare system.
The conference was a significant step towards empowering nurses and enhancing patient-centered care in palliative settings. It underscored the importance of continuous education and skill development in providing quality healthcare services, especially in the field of palliative care.
