Bath Orthopaedic Nurses Group (BONG)

Local Group Chair: Lyn Pearce

Contact details for further information: Lyn.pearce@ruh-bath.swest.nhs.uk

Report and action plan 2008-2009

Group overview / aims and geographical details

We aim to promote the acquisition of orthopaedic knowledge to enhance patient care, to support each other and to foster enthusiasm and motivation for our colleagues to share the same passion for orthopaedics as we have.

We are based in Bath and invite professionals with an interest in orthopaedics to join us from the surrounding locality.

Professional seminars, meetings and study days held

We meet less frequently now than in the past, managing to provide more content for the meetings whilst gaining a better attendance.

In February, we an evening meeting. We covered three different orthopaedic topics, delivered by three of our registrars. This was a popular event that was well supported.

We hold an annual study day in May of each year. "There's no business like bone business" was this year's title (our thanks to the Atlanta Group for their permission for us to use their regular title, which they use for all their study days).  This year we had our most successful day yet, with 70 delegates attending.

In September we have planned a visit to the Air Ambulance base, then in November a speaker from the Coroner's office.  I am sure both will prove to be interesting.

Approximate membership 

We have a loyal membership who keep the Bath group going and a fluctuant membership who support our meetings and study days.

Regional and national links

Amanda Broom, one of our long standing committee members, is on the National SOTN steering committee.

International Links

Twinned with Atlanta Chapter, USA

Facilitating two nurses coming to visit from Malta in September.

Plans for the coming year

To keep the group running, to encourage members to join the committee, continue with regular meetings and hold an annual study day.