Despite delayed distribution of influenza vaccine during the 2000-2001 season, immunization rates at 7 hospitals and among HCWs in high-risk units exceeded the National Association of Children's Hospitals and Related Institutions goal of 50%.

Strong and effective clinical leadership is needed by practicing nurses as our healthcare systems continue to decentralize and shift decision making closer to the bedside. Innovation and new ways of leading and following are required. New forms of clinical leadership can energize and transform today's work environments.

S'mores are a good analogy for students struggling to learn stoichiometry.

This tool has received positive ratings from nurse managers currently using it to interview nurse applicants who best "fit" into the organization's nursing culture. Results will be monitored over time including hiring decisions, preceptor ratings, and retention rates.

October 9 -12, 2004 Katherine J. Densford International Center for Nursi ng leadership will bring together six great nursing leaders to reflect on their work and how it has shaped the profession, as well as the challenges facing today's nursing leaders.