By Kelly Hancock, DNP, RN, NE-BC

Statistics say on average, a human brain has 100 billion neurons, with each brain cell connected to about 10,000 other cells. Neuroscience is an incredible field of study, and for 20 years Cleveland Clinic has been highlighting the latest advancements in the field at its one-of-a-kind Innovations in Neuroscience conference.

The two-day event draws registered nurses, advanced practice nurses, physician assistants, physical and occupational therapists and other neuroscience professionals from all over the U.S. The 2018 conference – which is a special 20^th anniversary edition – will be held Thursday, Nov. 1 and Friday, Nov. 2, in downtown Cleveland. If you haven’t registered yet, you should!

In addition to a highly educational and thought-provoking agenda, the below outlines my top 5 reasons why neuroscience caregivers won’t want to miss Cleveland Clinic’s Innovations in Neuroscience:

1. Get the latest in neuroscience innovation. The event delivers new insights, creates possibilities that previously didn’t exist, opens doors to opportunity, and brings value to care delivery, outcomes and patient experience. This conference will be abundant with the latest neuroscience innovations – from multiple sclerosis treatments and research, to deep brain stimulation for stroke recovery, to the management of specific neurological diseases, symptoms and patient populations, advances in diagnoses, and the treatment of seizures.
2. A chance to network with colleagues. Neuroscience professionals come from near and far to attend this conference, making it a great opportunity to network with others in your field.
   
3. Earn multiple CMEs/CMUs. Conference attendees can earn up to 14 AAPA Category 1 CME credits. Additionally, application for credit has been filed with the Ohio Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Athletic Trainers (OTPTAT) Board for Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy.
4. Focus on specialty neuroscience topics. Innovations in Neuroscience features a comprehensive list of experienced faculty members and guest speakers who will highlight an array of specialty topics. Attendees can choose to learn more about specialty subjects such as stroke diagnostics, endovascular therapy, neuro-oncology, neuro-endocrinology, geriatric psychiatry, chronic pain, neuro-rehabilitation, spine trauma, acute encephalitis, neuroradiology and more.
5. An advanced practice critical care hands-on workshop. A conference highlight, this highly sought-after workshop provides hands-on opportunities and education for common procedures in neuroscience practice. Participants will learn to practice intracranial pressure monitoring, external ventricular drain placement, central line placement, and the basics of critical care ultrasound.

Don’t miss out on this great opportunity – register now! Registration is also available onsite the day of the event.

For additional information, visit the Innovations in Neuroscience conference website.

Kelly Hancock is the Executive Chief Nursing Officer of the Cleveland Clinic Health System, and Chief Nursing Officer of Cleveland Clinic Main Campus.

Follow Kelly on Twitter at @kkellyhancock.