In 1991, the NfSSL (Norsk Forening AV Sterilsentralledere) was founded by nurses actively working in hospital sterile supplies departments. It has since evolved and membership has been extended to health-care workers and other professionals who have expertise or interests in the decontamination, processing and supply of sterile medical devices. In 2005, the NfSSL changed its name to NfS - Norsk Forening for Sterilforsyning. We enjoy a steady increase in membership and to date have approximately 80 members.
The associations primary aim is to contribute to the prevention of acquired infection in health institutions. Furthermore it is committed to the development and improvement of quality standards and training, it also aspires to have formally qualified managers and personnel in all sterile services departments. The NfS raises and debates important issues and challenges currently faced by sterile service departments by providing a multidiciplinary forum for discussion.
For members and non-members is traditionally held each Spring. This 2-3 day event includes formal meetings, a diversity of lectures appealing to all levels of staff and an industrial exhibition. As a social event it provides opportunities for lively, informal discussions, meeting old friends and making new contacts. Scholarships (sponsored by industry) - aimed to stimulate education and professional developement are awarded to one or more of our members.
The Autumn Meeting and Seminar
Is arranged in conjunction with the Norwegian Forum for Hospital Infection Control's annual 3-day conference. The NfS organises a one-day programme which addresses issues at managerial level, this meeting is for members only.
"The Spore", Members News Letter
The association produces an informative bulletin once or twice a year which features its current activities. Member are encouraged to send in articles of interest and come forward with their ideas and points of view.
Norway is located in Northern Europe, bordering the North Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean. With a total of 2,551 km land boundaries, Norway shares borders with Finland (736 km), Sweden (1,619 km) and Russia (196 km).
Statistics
Area: 324,220 km² (land 307,860 km², water 16,360 km²)
Population: 4,574,560 (July 2004)
Capital: Oslo
Languages: Bokmal Norwegian (official), Nynorsk Norwegian (official), small Sami- and Finnish-speaking minorities
Religion: Evangelical Lutheran 86% (state church), other Protestant and Roman Catholic 3%, other 1%, none and unknown 10% (1997)
Climate: temperate along coast, modified by North Atlantic Current; colder interior with increased precipitation and colder summers; rainy year-round on west coast
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