ENA A Huge disappointment for ED Staff nurses on the front line

[ditesbonjour]

I have been an ED nurse for over 25 years CEN since 1991. Even attended national conferences in 2004 (San Diego) and Leadership Conference in 2007 (Boston). Over the years, it has become increasingly evident that the elected ENA officials have an agenda of their own. Very little voice for the ED nurse on the frontline, at the bedside, on all shifts, holidays and weekends. They have a cozy agenda, think we can immediately bed everyone that comes in regardless of out staffing level, they promote and publish in JEN results of studies about supposedly adequate staffing and patient satisfaction levels. They also have education webinars promoting the hiring of a candidate with will over skill. Meanwhile, our local chapter dwindles, fewer and fewer of us feel worthy of joining such a cozy elite when our reality in the trenches is so different. We who listen to our patients everyday, every night and every weekend, this for many years need a voice too. A voice, and also academic opportunities. At this time ENA is announcing scholarships for doctoral candidates. Here's another example that ENA needs a revamp: I just renewed my CEN. I had to log in all the contact hours that I have accumulated over the last 4 years. The process was extremely tedious and complicated. One big issue for me is the continuing education provided in JEN. I have requested that as a member of ENA I could get to submit those free of charge. I am still waiting for a response. Bravo to all of you fellow ED nurses, I give my love and support, 100%.

[CraigB-RN, MSN, RN]

I to share some of your frustrations with ENA. But we as a group have to take some credit for things. How many members take the time to research candidates and then actually vote?

As to the continuing education, I agree with you there. Although I do recognize the fact that ENA isn't as big and it doesn't have the revenue streams that AACN has. For $78/yeah I get 2 journals, free CEU's and a few other percs. Would be nice to see some parity. I can't remember the last time I actually took ENA CEU's. I think I did one of the free ones a few months back.

As to the logging of CEU's, I definitely agree 100% on that. That is the most convoluted system.

As to the other thoughts. Take over the local chapter! If it's out of touch, get others involved and make it relevant! Run for local office and campaign for the job. Get people to come out and vote.

[Medic/Nurse, BSN, RN]

I agree. Very little to engage "front line" nurses --- sure, I started out excited and involved & likely passed you in conference in Boston, but as time has marched on it does seem less about the ER nurse & more about the academic or PhD nurse. I renew my membership & pay the fees when I need to retest to maintain a cert and that's it. I always retest to maintain certifications. Just easier on me.

Otherwise, why bother with something that is meaningless. I do read journal articles & promote certification to other nurses. I will continue to do that. I think that CERTIFICATION is important in every speciality. As is additional education.

As as far Conferences, nah - not on my dime. ENA local, I'm a nothing peon. Not worth it for either party - my imput is unwelcome & I've got better ways to waste my time.

It it should be EMERGENCY NURSE EDUCATION MANAGEMENT ASSOCATION (ENEMA) - perfect!!!

My time, effort, energy & commitment are all more valuable than my money. But, since they just want my money - it's a win, win!

[CraigB-RN, MSN, RN]

I actually do the education, just not ENA education. I do it to keep current on emergency medicine, nursing and medicine in general. I try to rotate conferences. AACN NTI, ENA, then a Doc conference. I spend more of my time and effort for AACN than ENA.

[ditesbonjour]

CraigB RN thank you so much for your reply. I appreciate your input!

[ditesbonjour]

Very encouraging reply. Nice to know I'm not alone