Now Accepting Abstract Submissions for Second Annual Nursing Science Day

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The College of Education and Health Professions Eleanor Mann School of Nursing is seeking abstracts for the second annual Nursing Science Day scheduled for March 7.

The event — featuring prominent author and speaker Temple Grandin — is hosted by the Eleanor Mann School of Nursing and the Pi Theta chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. Students, faculty and healthcare professionals from the community are invited to submit abstracts for the presentations around the symposium's theme, "The State of the Science for Animal-Assisted Therapy: Implications for Research, Education, and Practice Across the HealthCare Continuum."

Abstract submissions are due Jan. 31, 2024, and those accepted will be notified Feb. 9. The submissions can fall under a myriad of categories and considerations. 

"Authors from healthcare and other professions are encouraged to submit abstracts representing their original research, quality/performance improvements, systematic reviews and 'thoughts and progress' related to theory, instrumentation and research methodology," said Lori Murray, assistant professor of nursing at the U of A and president of Pi Theta.

Nursing Science Day is scheduled from 12:30-7 p.m. at the Fayetteville Town Center. 

Along with poster sessions throughout the day, the symposium will include a slate of speakers on the topic of animal-assisted therapy. Keynote speaker Temple Grandin is a distinguished professor from Colorado State University, well-known for her advocacy for the humane treatment of livestock and research into animal behavior.

Other researchers and speakers include U of A nursing professors Allison Scott and Michele Kilmer. Morgan Yordy, an associate professor at Auburn University, and Kyria Henry, executive director of paws4people.org, will also present research.

Topics include using canines in academic settings to promote mental health, the ethical use of canines in healthcare and academic settings, information on the assistance dog training minor degree and certification for university students and the use of canines in autism therapy.

Nurses can earn continuing professional development hours by attending the event. Nursing Science Day is hosted with help from the College of Education and Health Professions' WE CARE funding.

Visit the Nursing Science Day page for more information about the symposium.