Welcome!
- 02 7908 7774
- [email protected]
Ready to sharpen your skills and boost your confidence in cardiac and respiratory assessment?
Join us for an engaging conference aboard a fabulous cruise ship. Designed for both novice and experienced nurses, as well as midwives seeking to expand their knowledge, this event is designed to help you feel more capable, confident, and prepared in your role.
With healthcare becoming increasingly complex, advanced assessment skills are no longer optional — they’re essential for nurses stepping into various roles, making critical decisions, and supporting their teams.
What this Conference is About
This conference provides practical, easy-to-understand strategies that you can implement immediately, all within a supportive and enjoyable setting.
Relax, recharge, and learn from highly regarded content that nurses and midwives have praised for years. Combine professional development with time to connect with peers and fully immerse yourself in the cruising experience. Step off the ship with more confidence, skills, and clarity to take your practice to the next level.
Advanced assessment skills are essential for nurses because they significantly enhance the quality of patient care, improve patient outcomes, and encourage professional growth. As healthcare becomes increasingly complex, nurses are taking on more in-depth assessment and critical thinking roles.
Nurses with advanced assessment skills are more likely to take on leadership roles in clinical settings, such as team leader, clinical nurse specialist, or nurse practitioner. These roles often involve making independent decisions, exercising complex clinical judgment, and collaborating with other healthcare providers.
This conference is designed for novice and experienced nurses who wish to enhance their confidence in cardiac and respiratory assessment. Its content has been highly evaluated over many years. Midwives would also benefit from this knowledge, as pregnant women have increased comorbidities that require advanced cardiac knowledge.
The conference commences with a cardiac assessment and aims to empower all nurses to perform an expert clinical assessment of patients deteriorating with cardiac disorders. We will then explore the significance of advanced respiratory assessment, beginning with an explanation of various respiratory disorders, many of which are life-threatening.
Continuing, we will also discuss the following:
- The increased incidence of vaping by adolescents and the effects on the respiratory system
- The increasing prevalence of COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and the nurses’/midwives’ responsibilities relating to oxygen administration
- chest auscultation
- Interpretation of chest x-rays and
- Interpretation of arterial blood gases (ABG)
Conference Learning Outcomes
At this conference, you will:
- Explore the general cardiac assessment of a deteriorating patient with cardiac compromise
- Gain expert knowledge and skills in the interpretation of arrythmias and 12-lead ECG
- Discuss the general respiratory assessment of a deteriorating patient with respiratory compromise
- Investigate communication skills and tips that will obtain immediate action for your patient from other members of the health care team
You Will Also Learn
- To recognise a patient deteriorating with a cardiac disorder
- To interpret the deterioration of a monitored patient
- To recognise a patient deteriorating with a respiratory disorder or condition
- Interesting respiratory conditions such as silicosis, psittacosis, legionnaires disease, and the deadly emerging C.auris
- To read a chest x-ray
- The presentation on the chest x-ray of a variety of disorders such as: heart failure, pneumothorax, pneumonia and placement of various catheters
- To recognise Becks Triad and relate to the deteriorating patient with a pericardiac effusion
- The anatomy of the lung fields, examining the lobes and landmarks for auscultation
- To auscultate both the lungs and the heart
- The significance of a post-operative patient who develops crackles and shortness of breath
- How syncope or mild fitting can be misdiagnosed and relate this to the Long QT (LQT) interval syndrome
- To perform the clinical assessment of a collapsed patient and address the controversy of performing pulses
- The vital role ward nurses have in managing a patient after an antidepressant overdose and the required knowledge of all nurses in this serious disorder of LQT
- The assessment of chest pain in a pregnant woman or in the post-partum period, according to ANZCOR’s (Australian and New Zealand Committee on Resuscitation) Resuscitation guidelines relating to PEA (pulseless electrical activity) cardiac arrest
- The common arrhythmia associated with a post op haemorrhage or trauma
- The significance of recognition of a murmur
Not your typical Nursing CPD Conference
Our Presenter:
Anne Evans-Murray
R.N., BHlthSc, MACCCN, Grad.Dip Ed, MEd, Dip Counselling, GradCertCritCare, CertIV Training and Assessment, CertIV in Mediation
Anne has a passion for teaching which she does in an unpretentious way that ensures you will not only understand and retain what she presents but will enjoy this learning experience. She has extensive experience of over 26 years lecturing for Gold Coast Health District and Griffith University.
Anne is a frequent presenter at workshops, conferences & seminars throughout Australia & New Zealand on subjects such as high dependency nursing, cardiac arrhythmias & ECG interpretation, chest x-rays interpretation, clinical assessment of the deteriorating patient, assertion training and leadership. She conducts accredited advanced life support training for nurses, doctors and paramedics.
Conference Program:
The library consists of Conference material supplied by the Presenter/s, which can include any of the following:
- Research documents
- Links to external information
- Recorded Conference presentations
- Electronic Notepads
The research documents and recorded Conference presentations form part of the Continuing Professional Development activities. They are delivered to you before the commencement date so you can start your Conference Program early. If you choose not to undertake these activities prior, there is a two-week window post the Conference where the library remains open to you. You can also undertake the library activities during the actual Conference.
Below is a snapshot of the Conference Program
Day one:
09 Sep 2026 | Depart Sydney | 1630
1630: Make sure you are up on deck to be a part of the “setting sail” festivities as we say farewell to destination.
Evening: Enjoy this opportunity to mingle with the other attendees at the complimentary drinks and Conference Registration function.
Day two:
10 Sep 2026 | Conference Day
Morning Self-directed Sessions:
- Cardiac Crosswords
- Arrhythmia Interpretation Quiz
Face to Face Sessions:
- Telemetry/ECG Interpretation | Foundational Principles of ECG Monitoring
- Monitoring a Patient in Critical Care and Ward Telemetry Units
- Assessment of A Patient with a Life-Threatening Arrhythmia
- Interpretation of LQT Interval Syndrome
Evening: Networking Session
Day three:
11 Sep 2026 | Conference Day
Face to Face Sessions:
- Interpretation of A 12 Lead ECG
- Continuing Interpretation of A 12 Lead ECG – SCAD
- Cardiac Auscultation and the Recognition of a Deteriorating Patient
Afternoon Self-directed Sessions:
- Cardiac Interpretation Quiz
- Interpretation found in the 12 Lead ECG exercise
Evening: Networking Session
Day Four:
12 Sep 2026 | Airlie Beach | 0700 – 1600
Explore at your Leisure
The white sands of world-famous Whitehaven Beach, glass-bottom-boat day tours on the turquoise waters of the Coral Sea, high-speed catamaran joy rides and Hamilton Island region magic awaits Airlie Beach cruises with Carnival.
Travel to the heart of the 74 islands that comprise the picture-perfect Whitsunday Islands, an Australian treasure.
Evening: Networking Session
Day Five:
13 Sep 2026 | Cairns
0930 – 1800
Explore at your Leisure
Visit the coastal city of Cairns and enjoy a smorgasbord of fun and adventure. Daintree Rainforest tours are the ideal way to experience the ecosystem of the wet tropics of Queensland (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Go snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef, experience the Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail, or have a tropical rainforest nature park adventure. A day trip to Cairns itself is always worth it, with amazing shopping on the Esplanade and scenic walks that will blow you away.
Evening: Networking Session
Day Six:
14 Sep 2026 | Willis Island
1100 – 1200
Find a Spot on Deck
This tiny island, located 450 kilometres east of Cairns, is home to fascinating wildlife, as well as a manned Australian Bureau of Meteorology weather monitoring station. While the cruise does not include a stop at Willis Island, you can catch glimpses of its natural beauty from the comfort of the ship. As you sail by, you’ll have the opportunity to witness some amazing wildlife that calls this island home, including wedge-tailed shearwaters and sooty terns, friendly fish in the marine reserve, visit the tranquil secret grotto, and bask in the serenity of the tropical paradise.
Evening: Networking Session
Day Seven:
15 Sep 2026 | Conference Day
Face to Face Sessions:
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Interesting Variety of Respiratory Disorders - Arterial Blood Gas Analysis
Afternoon Self-directed Sessions:
- Respiratory Assessment and Disorders Crossword
- ABG Interpretation Scenario and Quiz
Evening: Networking Session
Day Eight:
16 Sep 20026 | Tangalooma
0800 – 1800
Explore at your Leisure
When you step off the ship at Tangalooma on Moreton Island, you have access to a variety of activities that showcase the island’s natural beauty and marine life including Snorkelling at the Tangalooma Wrecks, A Marine Discovery Cruise, Wild Dolphin Feeding to name a few
Evening: Networking Session
Day Nine:
17 Sep 2026 | Conference Day
Morning Self-directed Sessions:
- Clinical Scenario of a patient with COPD
- Webinar: Assertiveness and Boundaries
Face to Face Sessions:
- Lung Auscultation
- Chest X-Ray Interpretation
Evening: Farewell Function
Day Ten:
18 Sep 2026 | Sydney | 0630
Disembark – safe travels!
Inclusions
- An extensive Conference program based on current best practice
- Education content that meets the same exacting standards as anything offered in an Australian land-based program
- A Conference Presenter who is a recognised expert in her field and is excited to be able to share her skill, knowledge, and passion with Conference Attendees
- An online Conference library filled to the brim with educational content that allows you to create your own learning experience by completing pre-conference education activities
- A Registration Reception including complimentary drinks where you can meet other Conference Attendees and network with Conference Convenors and Conference Presenters
- The opportunity to meet as a group in various Conference open forums, in one of the many fabulous locations on the ship
- A complimentary Farewell Drinks Function held on the last night of the Conference to celebrate new friendships and information gained
- A Conference Transcript that identifies each session held at the Conference, including the session synopsis and session presenters
- A Certificate of Completion identifying the CPD hours attached to the Conference Program for you to include in your CPD Evidence Portfolio
Registration Costs $1390.00
What are you waiting for?
This is a fabulous program – to secure your place at this Conference simply contact Education at Sea to find out about all the cabin options available. Once you have paid your deposit, your registration is confirmed, and you can start planning your Conference getaway.
Education at sea contact details:
Need more info or a personalised quote?
The Venue:
Carnival Splendor
Carnival Splendor has it all! Being the length of 3 football fields it holds a huge amount of fun-filled activities onboard for you to enjoy.
Refurbished in 2019, including Fun-Ship 2.0 upgrades including the Green Thunder Waterslide & Waterpark, Guy’s Burger Joint, Blue Iguana Cantina and the Blue Iguana Tequila Bar.
Take time to relax, explore and have fun.
Let's talk about your accommodation
Relax in a style & smart sophistication. Our modern inside staterooms are highlighted with appointments like a TV, sitting area and more.
All you have to do is unpack and relax. Your room steward will clean and tidy your room every day all you need to do is get dressed, grab your bag and start your adventure.
Dining Options
You've got a foodie in you — everyone does! Awaken and delight yours on this cruise with delicious main dishes, tempting desserts and general yumminess everywhere you look.
There is plenty of choice but where to start? Including four new dining options - Masala Tiger, Fahrenheit 555, Pizzeria del Capitano and Seafood Shack.
Relax and unwind
Sometimes you just need to get away… from all that vacation. We know — sitting at home, it’s hard to imagine that, but trust us — it’s really, really nice to have a place to unwind from the day’s excitement.
Escape to a world designed, from the ground up, for relaxation. Cloud 9 Spa staff are masters (or, maybe more like artists) trained in the craft of simply helping you chill.
take in a stage show
Here's your chance to dip a toe into onboard entertainment, activities, bars and more… so that when you cruise, you're ready to dive headfirst into the fun.
There's stage shows, comedy bars, live music, and karaoke just to name a few of the entertainment choices you have to enjoy onboard.
How Do I dress on a cruise?
Most cruise lines offer a casual atmosphere onboard. Casual attire is the norm during the day, and there is no formal dress code at night. However, many passengers choose to change into something slightly less casual for dinner.
At least once per sailing, during which passengers are encouraged to dress up. While you rarely see tuxedos or evening gowns, suits and cocktail dresses are quite common.
Additionally, ships usually host several themed nights, such as White Parties, '70s, or '80s Night, Hawaiian or even Mexican during each sailing. It’s a good idea to bring along a few themed items.
NB: Closer to your sail date you will be able to see what the exact theme nights are being held via your cruise companies app.
CPD Conference Partner
Education at Sea
Would you like to learn more about ECG interpretation?
ECGs Simply: Cardiac Arrhythmias Made Easy
The purpose of this book is to present the often complicated explanation of electrocardiography in a simple and easy to read manner. ECGs Simply underpins the course content and will be a valued edition to your education library.
- PLEASE NOTE: You will be taken through to the Stones Corner Book Store's Website
FAQS
Can I Bring the Family?
Because a cruise is such a fabulous holiday experience, your family and friends can join you on your CPD Travel adventure.
Whilst you are attending lectures there are heaps of activities to keep them busy including an exceptional kid’s club program.
Simply talk to the Team at Education at Sea, they can organise all your and your travelling companion’s travel arrangements.
What if I need kid-free time?
If you want to mix only with adults, most ships have an area with entry only available to people over the age of 18..
Guests will jump for joy upon discovering this private retreat where they can connect with the ocean – and disconnect from everything else.
Can you give me some tips on Cruising?
We sure can……whether you are a seasoned cruiser or this is your first time onboard a cruise ship our Ultimate Guide to Cruising is sure to have some useful tips and advice to ensure you have a fantastic time on this Travel CPD adventure.
Can you organise for me to share a room with someone?
We can’t promise – but we can pop your name on a waiting list and if another person asks the same question we can put you in contact with each other and you can decide if you are both compatible to share a cabin.
Contact the fabulous team at Education at Sea on 02 7908 7774 for more information.
WHAT OUR ATTENDEES HAD TO SAY
Simply Awesome an outstanding presenter who gave her all. An excellent teacher who could reach those at a basic level as well as advanced practitioners. Fantastic value for money.
Diane
It was absolutely amazing. I really enjoyed the presenter and the manner in which she presented the content. I would really recommend it to everyone. And oh yes a great holiday for the family to while we learnt.
Joy
Anne Evans Murray is so dynamic and an excellent speaker and clarified many topics for me. She is an inspiration.
Margaret
Anne is an engaging speaker who knows how to read the room. And has well presented material that is easy to understand.
Denell
An important week of learning presented by (Anne) someone who is very engaging and full of knowledge. I've learnt so much about the importance of identifying early warning signs of a deteriorating pt and ultimately how to be a better nurse.
Georgia
An important week of learning was presented by (Anne) someone who is very engaging and full of knowledge. I've learnt so much about the importance of identifying early warning signs of a deteriorating pt and, ultimately, how to be a better nurse.
Tuva
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