Presentation skills for nurses: how to prepare more effectively

Many clinical nurses are changing the way they deliver care for the benefit of their patients. In order to share ideas, knowledge and opinions more widely, nurses need to either speak or write within the public arena. For all nurses, presentation skills are not just useful, they are essential, whether for sharing practice, influencing colleagues or seeking a new job. Such skills can be learnt, building on characteristics most nurses already possess. Effective presentations usually require learning to control nervousness and preparing properly. This article provides a framework for preparation and suggestions for ways to achieve calm and confidence.