President's update: A measure of accountability

AT the May meeting, provincial council voted on more than 60 motions related to a variety of issues including nursing policy, organizational processes and resource allocation. While reviewing the motions passed, I was struck by their breadth and significance.

One motion approved by council reads simply: "That council approves the Critical Success Factor Monitoring Report." The report is the method we use to measure our progress towards achieving our ultimate vision to be Alberta's Voice of Nursing. For me, this motion represents an important measure of our accountability to AARN members.

Last year, council identified the following critical success factors as the means toward realizing our vision and mission. The AARN is committed to aligning all of its activities under at least one of following factors.

#1 Valuing and Achieving Excellence in Self-Regulation

#2 Promoting Effective Relationships

#3 Fostering Membership Confidence

#4 Communicating Strategically

#5 Managing Resources with Wisdom and Foresight

Staff presented provincial council with the first status report on the progress of each goal and strategy at the May meeting. The report helps us gauge how effectively the activities and policies of the AARN benefit its members, the profession of nursing and Albertans who count on quality nursing care. I am pleased to report that we are moving forward on all fronts. Each member of provincial council is committed to meeting our end goals by monitoring progress and adjusting strategies.

Another motion carried at the last meeting instilled pride in members of provincial council for Alberta's registered nurses. Council has decided to nominate AARN member Dr. Ginette Lemire Rodger for Canada's most distinguished nursing award, the Canadian Nursing Association's (CNA) Jeanne Mance Award. Last year, Dr. Lemire Rodger completed her term as CNA president and is currently the chief of nursing at Ottawa Hospital. Council also formally recognized the Nurse Practitioner Association of Alberta as an AARN Specialty Practice Group and agreed to develop a policy that expands membership opportunities for local, regional or provincial chapters of established specialty practice groups.

I look forward to our next meeting scheduled for September 25-26 when five new members join provincial council. Have a pleasant summer!

JEANNE BESNER RN, PhD

E-mail: aarn.president@calgaryhealthregion.ca

Phone: 403.943.0181 [office]

Copyright Alberta Association of Registered Nurses Jul 2003
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