What programmes and practices are in place to fully integrate these nurses in their new workplace? How do health systems make the most of their knowledge, skills and potential? How do we ensure fair treatment?

The International Centre on Nurse Migration, in conjunction with the Commonwealth Secretariat and the Royal College of Nursing, hosted a two-day conference on Creating Positive Practice Environments for the International Nurse on 20-21 February 2006 at the Marlborough House in London. The Department of Health, NHS Confederation, and the Nursing and Midwifery Council were also associated with this event.

Prominent guest speakers and researchers from the U.S., UK and Ireland presented the issues for discussion. Sian Thomas (NHS Confederation) and Sally Taber (Independent Healthcare Forum) provided the employer perspective. The individual and collective voice of the international nurse was heard - conclusions taken from the King's Fund study on Internationally Recruited Nurses in London was presented by James Buchan.

Models of good practice exist. Jane C. Shivnan (Institute for John's Hopkins Nursing) and Anne Leedham-Smith (RCN North West Thames) presented examples from the U.S. and the UK, while an international overview was given by Annette Kennedy, President of the European Federation of Nurses Associations.The RCN good practice guidelines was presented by Sylvia Denton, RCN President, and Peggy Vidot from the Commonwealth Secretariat explored how a learning environment in the UK can benefit developing countries when return migration is facilitated.

The challenges of integrating the international nurse stem from issues of nurse competence and the work environment. Open discussion moderated by nurse leaders identified priority areas for intervention and a shared agenda.

Event Co-Sponsors

In association with

Department of Health • NHS Confederation • Nursing and Midwifery Council