How to develop and present a conference poster

Presenting a poster at a conference is an effective way for nurses to share their work - for example, a research piece or quality improvement project - with a wider audience. It can help nurses to improve their writing and presentation skills while also benefiting colleagues and patients through the dissemination of best practice. However, if you are a novice poster author and presenter, you may find it challenging to know where to start. This article aims to guide nurses through the process of developing and presenting a conference poster, which will involve: • Consider what it is you wish to share with a wider audience and why. • Choose which conference will be a suitable forum and submit a convincing abstract. • Determine the design, structure and content of your poster. • Develop a draft, proofread it and ask a colleague or supervisor to look at it before finalising it. • Prepare yourself to discuss your poster with delegates. REFLECTIVE ACTIVITY: 'How to' articles can help to update your practice and ensure it remains evidence based. Apply this article to your practice. Reflect on and write a short account of: • How this article might improve your practice when designing and presenting a conference poster. • How you could use this information to educate nursing students or your colleagues on the appropriate technique and evidence base when designing and presenting a conference poster.