What should I wear to a nursing conference?

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Specializes in Pediatric Critical Care.

I am attending the 2011 ANCC Magnet Nursing Conference in Baltimore, MD in October.

I am a "nurse-who-happens-to-be-male" and would like to know your opinions on what I should wear.

Should I wear a tie? Polo shirt and khakis?

Obviously I am not going to wear jeans because that is against my hospital's policy, therefore not representing my hospital...

I saw another thread on this, but it was about what ladies should wear.

What are your thoughts/What have you seen other men wear to these conferences?

THANKS! :D

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Specializes in Leadership, Psych, HomeCare, Amb. Care.
I am attending the 2011 ANCC Magnet Nursing Conference in Baltimore, MD in October.

I am a "nurse-who-happens-to-be-male" and would like to know your opinions on what I should wear.

Should I wear a tie? Polo shirt and khakis?

Magnet conference where you are representing your institution is different than a conference for your own edification. Bring both, but probably shirt & tie

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Definitely a shirt and tie at minimum and dress pants...not casual Khaki type pants. A jacket might even be prudent.

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Specializes in Nursing Professional Development.

Hmmm... interesting .... Most men I see at conferences wear clothes in the "khaki and polo shirt" category. As a woman, that's what I have always chosen and have never felt out of place. I haven't been to the annual Magnet conference, but I've been to an ANCC run Magnet workshop for Magnet Coordinators and journey leaders, administrators, etc. That "business casual" was what most people were wearing there.

I suggest asking others from your hospital what they plan to wear and then plan on being at least as dressy as they are -- or just slightly more formal. Perhaps you should take a little of both -- slacks and nicer casual shirts for most days, but 1 or 2 nicer outfits for the more special ocassions.

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Specializes in medical surgical.

Just ask your HR department. They will have specifics for you.

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Specializes in Psychiatry.

Cut-off denim shorts, suspenders, a 3/4 shirt with a CHiPs decal, a rainbow afro wig, and some old-school roller skates.

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