The fall season and the end of the calendar year is always a thankful time for me. Having a natural closing to the year reminds me to take stock of where I am and what I have accomplished over the past year. As you can imagine, some years are different than others, with some being more purely productive and some being more meaningful in alternate ways. Obviously, given my history and close connection to the Journal of the Dermatology Nurses' Association (JDNA), I can't help but do the same annual reflection on behalf of the Journal itself and the work we do for it. Annually, I find myself pleased and grateful for the opportunities to work with dermatology nurses and with the JDNA. The production of the JDNA continues to be a true passion for those of us involved in the work we do; however, we recognize we would not be able to do this without the ongoing contributions of dedicated dermatology nurses and our colleagues. So, during this time of thanksgiving, let me thank each of you who has contributed to the Journal.
The JDNA should be a product of many voices joined together in conversation about dermatology nursing. Although I have asked before, I again ask readers to consider becoming more intimately involved in the production process of the JDNA. The JDNA is looking to register new peer reviewers, work with potential new authors, and involve more Dermatology Nurses' Association members on the Editorial Board. Please let us know how we can help maximize your involvement with the Journal.
The JDNA is not the only nursing organization looking to help nurses with writing and publishing, however. You may know I am a member of the International Academy of Nursing Editors (INANE), the name and acronym of which were obviously chosen with good humor. INANE is "a collective of nursing editors and publishers focused on meeting the practice, research and education needs of the nursing profession" and their "primary mission is to promote best practices in publishing and high standards in the publishing of nursing journals, books, and Web-based literature" (https://nursingeditors.com/). This group of editors is one of the most passionate and vocal groups of nurses I know, and they are not afraid to tackle the challenges associated with publishing or being a nurse leader. To this end, in response to member suggestions, INANE has recently created an INANE Mentor Email list. The organization states, "The purpose of this list is to provide current information about writing and publishing for nurses, answer questions, and provide support for those looking to grow in author and editor roles. It is designed for aspiring editors, authors, and others who are interested in disseminating nursing knowledge through the published literature, but perhaps are not at the level of full INANE activity. INANE members are active on the list and committed to answering questions, mentoring, and providing support" (https://nursingeditors.com/). So, if you were interested in becoming involved with publishing, here is another opportunity to network with knowledgeable peers who would welcome the chance to work with dermatology nurses interested in writing. Their Web site link offers an easy contact form to get started, and I encourage you to consider reaching out if interested.
We are getting closer to our Dermatology Nurses' Association Convention, which is always an annual highlight of dermatology nursing education. The next convention will be on March 18-21, 2020, in Denver, CO, and I invite you to clear your plans and make time to join us for this worthwhile event. With a robust schedule of activities and educational events, there surely will be something to pique your interest. Please register and come participate in an engaging conference with colleagues who share your passion for dermatology nursing.
With so much we can be grateful for and so much to look forward to, the JDNA and the nursing field are full of opportunities to grow both personally and professionally. As a dermatology nurse, I invite to reflect on your clinical experiences and make an inventory of your assets that may facilitate your becoming more actively engaged in both your profession and your clinical organizations. I challenge you to include the goals of professional development and participation in your resolutions for 2020.
As always, I am looking forward to hearing from you.
Angela L. Borger
Editor in Chief
[email protected]