IT'S A SAFE BET that nurses attending the Nursing2008 Symposium in Las Vegas, Nev., on March 18 to 21 went home winners-even if they didn't place a single bet. More than 1,060 attendees from across the United States and around the world honed their clinical skills and networked with colleagues by day, then enjoyed the nightlife that Las Vegas is famous for.

To kick off the conference, Jeffrey Doucette delivered a lively opening address: Keep the fire burning without burning out. With humor, common sense, and practical suggestions, he urged nurses to keep their passion for nursing alive by maintaining balance and taking charge of their careers. As he reminded nurses, "If you're not the lead dog, the view never changes!!"

In the wide-ranging educational sessions that followed, nurses learned the latest on both clinical practice and professional development. Leading a session on assertiveness, Debra Townsend offered nurses tips on speaking up-and, when appropriate, keeping quiet. She got one of many laughs by pointing out that "a closed mouth gathers no foot."

Another popular speaker, Terry Foster, had nurses in the palm of his hand with his Comedy with Colleagues address. Delivering hilarious anecdotes culled from his long experience in nursing, he illustrated why nurses tend to laugh at things "normal" people don't find funny-and why the appropriate use of humor is such a powerful coping strategy.

In the exhibit hall, nurses could pick and choose among a wealth of booths offering free publications, information on new technology and equipment, and career opportunities. Among 34 poster presentations submitted by nurses, 3 outstanding entries were recognized for excellence.

Figure. In a packed house, nurses share a laugh with Jeff Doucette.

Figure. Delivering the opening address, Jeff reminds nurses that no one's dying words are, "I wish I'd spent more time at work!!"

Figure. Karen Innocent, director of continuing education and conferences, gives attendees a warm welcome.

Figure. Senior clinical editor Denise Hayes presents the top award for clinical writing to Marian Jeffries, coauthor of "Helping Your Patient Combat Lung Cancer," published in the December issue of

Nursing2008 Symposium gave nurses a rare opportunity to recharge their batteries by sharing experiences with colleagues from all corners of the profession. Sound appealing? Then don't miss out on the Nursing2009 Symposium at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort in Orlando, Fla., May 6 to 9. Mark your calendar now!!

Figure. Raise your hand if you're coming to the Nursing2009 Symposium.