2025 AAENP National Conference: EmergNP SpeakersSession Details will be added as we receive them. Please continue to check back.
Keynote SessionCindy Weston, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, CHSE, FAANP, FAAN - Founding Dean and Professor, College of Nursing | UNT Health Science Center
The Problem Is All In Your Head: Brain and Cranial Nerve DisordersMichael Sharma, MPAS, PA-C - Emergency Medicine PA; Adjunct Professor, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX AbstractAltered mental status, the worst pain of their lives, problems moving their face or extremities... sometimes the presentation of a patient with brain and cranial nerve disorders is as distressing to the patient as it is to the treating clinician. We'll review some common brain and cranial nerve pathology, the emergent work-up required to confirm your working diagnosis, and when a patient needs urgent or emergent treatment to prevent morbidity and mortality Learning Objectives
Medical Aesthetic Emergencies: Identification and Management in the Emergency DepartmentKathleen Richardson, DNP, ARNP, FNP-C, ENP-BC, CEN, FAEN, FAWM, FAAN - Medical Director, Cossmedic Wellness and Aesthetics AbstractWith the growing popularity of medical aesthetic procedures, emergency departments (EDs) increasingly encounter patients presenting with complications resulting from treatments such as injectable fillers, laser therapies, microneedling, and chemical peels. While most aesthetic procedures are performed safely, adverse events can range from mild allergic reactions to severe vascular occlusions, infections, and life-threatening anaphylaxis. This presentation aims to enhance the knowledge and preparedness of emergency clinicians in recognizing, assessing, and managing these unique medical aesthetic emergencies. Learning Objectives
Applying a clinical practice guideline for the management of acute nontraumatic dental painErica May, DNP, APRN, AGACNP-BC, FNP-BC, ENP-C - Assistant Professor of Nursing, Vanderbilt University School of Nursing AbstractManaging acute dental pain effectively while minimizing opioid use remains a key challenge in clinical practice. Dentists, emergency medicine physicians, and other healthcare providers frequently prescribe medications for pain relief. This presentation will explore the application of a clinical practice guideline developed jointly by the American Dental Association Science and Research Institute, the University of Pittsburgh, the University of Pennsylvania, and McMaster University in managing acute nontraumatic dental pain, emphasizing evidence-based strategies to reduce opioid prescriptions while ensuring adequate pain control. The focus will be on practical approaches for Emergency Nurse Practitioners to recognize and treat acute nontraumatic dental pain, while highlighting the importance of non-opioid alternatives and multidisciplinary collaboration in managing dental pain effectively and safely. Learning Objectives
Almost There: Exploring the Hidden Risks of the Late Preterm InfantLeAnn Baker, DNP, APRN, NNP-BC, C-ONQS - University of Louisville Assitant Professor, Neonatal APP Team Lead, and NNP Track Coordinator, University of Louisville Toni Dobson, MSN, APRN, ENP-C, FNP-C, RNC-OB - Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Emergency Medicine Associates AbstractLate preterm infants (LPI) may look physically mature, but they are at increased risk for neonatal complications. Jointly presented by a NNP and ENP, we will discuss the 6 most common ED presentations of the LPI. We will review the evidence-based best practices for the management of hyperbilirubinemia, sepsis/infection, hypoglycemia, hypothermia, feeding difficulties, and respiratory distress. We will be discussing the differences between how these patients are managed in the NICU vs the ED and how we as ENPs, can learn from our NNP colleagues. This lecture is a unique opportunity to learn directly from another nursing specialty how to improve our care of neonates in the ED. Learning Objectives
Navigating Pediatric Dermatological Emergencies: Identification and ManagementBradley Rund, MSN, FNP-BC, NR-P, CEN, CPEN, CFRN, CCP-C, CMLI - Nurse Practitioner, Major Health Partners AbstractPediatric dermatology cases account for 4-5% of annual emergency room visits. Each case can present a different and sometimes limited story that requires unique approaches to identification through history-taking, physical exam, and possibly diagnostic testing. The session will review commonly seen pediatric dermatologic emergencies and presentations. The participants will additionally gain a comprehensive knowledge in the ability to treat, refer, and ensure proper education is provided for these patients. Learning Objectives
Essential ENT Knowledge for the ED: A Collaborative PerspectiveFrederick Barton, MSN ENP FNP, NREMT-P - Emergency Nurse Practitioner, Oregon Emergency Physicians Aaron Nakano, FNP, MSN RN AbstractThis lecture will address common ENT issues in the emergency department as well as PEARLS and PITFALLS. Specifically, an ED provider and ENT will share their management techniques for perforated eardrums, epistaxis, and peritonsillar abscesses Learning Objectives
Hitting the Bullseye on Pediatric Lyme DiseaseTeresa Dodge, DNP, FNP-C, CEN - Nurse Practitioner, WellNOw AbstractLyme disease is prevalent in the United States, especially in the Northeast. In fact, cases are only increasing and spreading further south. Pediatric patients, specifically those between the ages of five and fourteen, have the highest incidence of infection. Diagnosing and treating Lyme disease in pediatric patients can also be tricky, even for the most experienced nurse practitioners - the classic Lyme rash isn’t always a bullseye, and pediatric Lyme arthritis can mimic many other acute pediatric orthopedic diseases. To make things worse, in 2020, while we were all distracted by COVID, the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA), the American Academy of Neurology (AAN), and the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) released an updated guideline for the management of Lyme disease. These updated guidelines significantly changed the treatment of some Lyme patients. This presentation will review Lyme disease in the pediatric population, its signs and symptoms, how to diagnose it, and how to treat it. Learning Objectives
When Delirium is the Diagnosis, Not Psychosis: Screening for Delerium in Patients with Serious Mental Illness (SMI) and DementiaSharon Rainer, PhD, APRN, ENP-C, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC - Assistant Professor, Thomas Jefferson University AbstractThe aim of this presentation is to provide a thorough understanding of how to effectively screen for delirium in patients with serious mental illness (SMI) or dementia in the emergency department (ED). Patients with SMI, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, are at increased risk for delirium, which can complicate their clinical presentation and management. Early detection is crucial for preventing adverse outcomes and ensuring appropriate care. The importance of addressing underlying causes, stabilizing the patient, and employing supportive measures will be discussed. In addition, pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions while considering the impact of these treatments on both delirium and pre-existing psychiatric conditions will be emphasized. Learning Objectives
Recognizing and Management of Incarcerated Gravid Uterus in the Emergency Department: An Update for TreatmentDr. Jill Ogg-Gress, DNP, APRN, FNP-c ENP-c - Associate Professor, Georgetown University School of Nursing AbstractThis presentation aims to recognize and manage patients with symptoms suggestive of incarcerated gravid uterus (IGU) who present to the emergency department. It will outline strategies for identifying patients with complaints consistent with IGU, describe complications/risks, provide diagnostic recommendations, and discuss recently published new treatment strategies with minimally invasive ultrasound techniques for management. Case studies will also be provided during the presentation. Learning Objectives
Social Determinants of Health for the ED ProviderTravis McCall, PhD, APRN, CCP - Assistant Professor/Flight Nurse Practitioner, Vanderbilt University School of Nursing/Vanderbilt LifeFlight AbstractSocial determinants of health are non-medical factors that influence the health of individuals, communities, and populations. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has prioritized the need to promote health equity, expand coverage, and improve overall health among patients who benefit from CMS programs. As emergency departments provide access to care for many patients who may be affected by social determinants of health, ENPs are positioned to improve health equity and patient outcomes in the provision of care. This lecture will describe social determinants of health, identify factors that may affect patient health, and discuss the implications of such factors when managing and dispositioning patients in the emergency department. Learning Objectives
The Not-So-Sweet Hidden Threat of Diabetic KetoacidosisRachel Helms, DNP, APRN, AGACNP-BC, FNP-BC, ENP-C - Assistant Clinical Professor, Auburn University College of Nursing Joni Winter, DNP, CRNP, FNP-BC, AGACNP-BC, ENP-C, CVNP-BC - Assistant Clinical Professor, Auburn University College of Nursing AbstractEuglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis (EDKA) is an uncommon but life-threatening process identified in patients with type 1 and 2 diabetes. The condition is characterized by normoglycemia in the setting of an anion gap, metabolic ketoacidosis. There are several risk factors for developing EDKA; however, increased risks are linked to SGLT2 inhibitor use, type 1 diabetes, and bariatric surgeries secondary to prolonged perioperative fasting. Learning Objectives
Navigating the Storm: Mastering Acute Alcohol Withdrawal in the Emergency DepartmentSharon Rainer, PhD, APRN, ENP-BC, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC - Assistant Professor, Thomas Jefferson University College of Nursing AbstractAcute alcohol withdrawal is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires prompt recognition and management to prevent severe complications such as seizures, delirium tremens (DTs), and cardiovascular instability. Effective management of acute alcohol withdrawal in the ED involves prompt identification, appropriate use of pharmacological and supportive treatments, and careful monitoring. Early intervention and proper follow-up are crucial for reducing complications and improving patient outcomes. Learning Objectives
I Only Turned My Back for One Second!! Most Common Pediatric Toxicological Emergencies Seen TodayMichael Schill III, DNP, FNP-BC, ENP-C, CEN, CFRN, MICN - Lead Advanced Practice Clinician, Apollo MD AbstractEach day, we are unaware of some dangers around the house. It only takes a moment for a pediatric patient to get into something potentially harmful. We have all heard the phrase from a parent: "I only turned my back for one second." This presentation will provide a review of the most common harmful household items and common medications. Whether you work in the Emergency Department or Urgent Care, this will help to review common signs and symptoms and up-to-date treatment. This interactive case scenario-based presentation will review and discuss pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment modalities. Learning Objectives
Rapid Fire: Critical Care Pharmacology ReviewDavid Warren, FNP, ACNP, ENP, (CRNA, expected Dec 2024) - Nurse Practitioner, Integrative Emergency Services, David Warren NP PLLC AbstractThis session delivers a fast-paced, comprehensive review of critical care pharmacology tailored for Emergency Nurse Practitioners. Attendees will delve into common essential drugs used in emergency and critical care settings, focusing on mechanism of action, dosing, expected effects, and indictions/contraindications. The session includes interactive case studies and real-world scenarios to enhance understanding and application. Topics covered will include vasoactive agents, sedatives/hypnotics, analgesics, and neuromuscular blockers/reversals. The goal is to equip participants with the knowledge to make swift, evidence-based decisions in critical care situations. Learning Objectives
Taming the Toxins: Solutions for Ingestions and ExposuresMichael Gooch, DNP, APRN, CCP, FAASTN, FAANP, FAEN - Assistant Professor and Emergency-Flight NP, Vanderbilt University AbstractEmergency nurse practitioners often manage patients with a variety of exposures and ingestions. These can be accidental or intentional overdoses, resulting in challenging and sometimes unique treatment plans. During this presentation, the typical toxidromes as well as a range of toxins, medications, and substances will be discussed. Newer agents of abuse such as xylazine and new strategies including high dose insulin and intralipid therapy administration will be reviewed. Learning Objectives
Little people, Big Emotions: Management of Pediatric Mental Health EmergenciesBradley Rund, MSN, FNP-BC, NR-P, CEN, CPEN, CFRN, CCP-C, CMLI - Nurse Practitioner, Major Health Partners AbstractThe number of pediatric mental health visits are continuing to rise in addition to the number of children with a pediatric mental health diagnosis. This presentation will examine the common pediatric mental health disorders and what acute behavioral episodes will look like in an emergency setting. It will explore considerations for the rule out of medical causes for behavioral disturbances. In addition to a review of non-pharmacological and pharmacological interventions to consider. This presentation will prepare you to feel more comfortable in evaluating and treating pediatric mental health visits. Learning Objectives
Down on the Farm: Agriculture Illnesses and InjuriesTravis McCall, PhD, APRN, CCP - Assistant Professor/Flight Nurse Practitioner, Vanderbilt University School of Nursing/Vanderbilt LifeFlight Abstract“Down on the Farm: Agricultural Illnesses and Injuries” will describe illnesses and injuries among farm workers who may present to the emergency department. Content will include the incidence, diagnosis, and management of environmental exposures, vector-borne illnesses, toxicologic poisoning, and mechanical injuries that may occur among farm workers. Social determinants of health that may affect the care and health of farm workers will also be discussed. Learning Objectives
Autonomic Disorders Demystified: Collaborative Protocols for NPs in the ERJune Bryant, DNP, APRN, CPNP-PC - Assistant Professor, University of Tampa, The Dysautonomia Project June Bryant is a certified pediatric nurse practitioner in primary care and an Assistant Professor of Nursing at the University of Tampa. Her clinical interests include quality improvement in the patient centered medical home and dysautonomia. She is the practice owner her own mobile pediatric practice in the Tampa Bay community. She currently holds the position of President for the Florida Gulf Coast Chapter of NAPNAP and is a medical ambassador for The Dysautonomia Project.
AbstractThis presentation offers a deep dive into the recognition, assessment, and management of autonomic disorders—conditions that are often misunderstood and misdiagnosed in the fast-paced emergency environment. Learning Objectives
Buzz, Bite, and Battle: Vector-Borne Diseases in the ERElizabeth (Libby) Carger, DNP, FNP-BC, CNE - Nurse Practitioner, Duke Employee Occupational Health and Travel Clinic Mustapha Debboun, PhD, BCE Fellow ESA - Consultant, Independent AbstractThis evidence-based presentation addresses vectors and disease transmission to humans, including symptom assessment and guidance for best treatment practices. The speakers will explain the risks of encountering mosquito, tick and emerging vectors in the U.S. and endemic areas abroad. The presentation will include pathogens of greatest concern, emphasizing common and unusual symptoms. It includes guidance on when immediate treatment is essential. The speakers will address Alpha Gal syndrome, a sometimes serious food allergy that is conveyed by the lone star tick. Finally, they will discuss personal protection practices for bite avoidance, with tips for counseling patients, colleagues and the community-at-large. Learning Objectives
New STEMI EquivalentsJennifer Carlquist, PAC- C, ER CAQ - Physician Assistant, Cardiology Made Easy Inc. AbstractThis will cover the new stemi quivalents outlined in the JACC article on how to manage chest pain in the ED that was published nov 15, 2022. Learning Objectives
Angioedema in the Emergency DepartmentElizabeth Gilley, APRN, FNP-BC, RN - APP Fellow, Department of Emergency Medicine, UT Southwestern Department of Emergency Medicine AbstractThis will be an evidence-based overview of Angioedema as it is encountered in the Emergency Department. It will include a review of (1) Angioedema Pathophysiology, (2) Assessment and Workup of Undifferentiated Angioedema, (3) Management of Angioedema, and (4) Disposition for patients presenting with Angioedema. See below for subsections within each topic as outlined above. The presentation will include case examples for further discussion and understanding. Learning Objectives
Beyond the "Ds": Posterior Circulation Vascular EmergenciesKatherine Kruger, MSN, ENP, FNP, ACNP, CEN - Emergency Nurse Practitioner, University of Michigan AbstractCourse will be a rapid fire overview of key typical and atypical presentations of posterior vascular emergencies- to include strokes, vertebral artery dissections, as well as sentinel aneurysms. We'll also discuss essential pathophysiology, history, and physical exam findings, as well as the current state of the evidence. Much of this will be presented in a case study format based off of a de-identified case. Learning Objectives
Three Diagnoses You Should Never Make In the ED: GERD, PUD, and GastritisMichael Sharma, MPAS, PA-C - Emergency Medicine PA; Adjunct Professor, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX AbstractAbdominal pain is the most common emergency department chief complaint in adult patients. Ultimately, as many as 1 in 4 patients are discharged with no clear etiology to their pain. Although many discharged patients likely have nonemergent conditions like gastroesophageal reflux, peptic ulcer disease, and gastritis, it's important that we recognize the significance of these diagnoses when we use them for patients with new abdominal pain in the ED. We'll talk about common treatment for these conditions as well as dangerous mimics not to miss. Learning Objectives
The Agony & Ecstasy of Sex InjuriesLaMon Norton, NP - Nurse Practioner AbstractBoth consensual and nonconsensual sexual contact can have seriously negative health consequences. From the mild severity of "carpet burn" to the sequelae of a cerebrovascular event in a 30 year old, emergency care providers must have differential diagnosis thinking that focuses on appreciating risk for patients. This topic can be difficult for patients to discuss with candor, so the practitioner must apply both the art and science of medicine. Learning Objectives
Talk Smart, Code Fast, Next Patient: Medical Decision Making in EM DocumentationMichael Sharma, MPAS, PA-C - Emergency Medicine PA; Adjunct Professor, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX AbstractEspecially since 2023, the "medical decision making" section is by far the most important part of your emergency medicine documentation. We'll talk about different strategies for MDM charting, including what to make sure you document and also what to toss. In addition, we'll review updates to the 2023 American Medical Association emergency medicine coding and billing changes and ways to capture the heavy cognitive load involved in even a quick emergency department visit. Learning Objectives
Hard Truths, Soft Landings: Delivering Bad New with CompassionRachel Helms, DNP, APRN, AGACNP-BC, FNP-BC, ENP-C - Assistant Clinical Professor, Auburn University AbstractEmergency department providers frequently face the difficult responsibility of delivering bad news to patients and their families. Although this is always a challenging task, the fast-paced and high-pressure environment of the ED adds unique complexities that can intensify the difficulty. This presentation will equip providers with a thoughtful, compassionate approach to handling these tough conversations. Learning Objectives
Advanced Airway Management in Emergency Care SettingsMichael Gooch, DNP, APRN, CCP, FAASTN, FAANP, FAEN - Assistant Professor and Emergency-Flight NP, Vanderbilt University AbstractAdvanced airway management is the most common life saving intervention performed in emergency care settings. Unfortunately, this intervention does not come without risks. This presentation will review current recommended practices to improve success and reduce complications, especially hypoxia and hypotension. Airway assessment, preparation and planning, medication selection, and a brief overview of ventilator management will be included. At the conclusion of this presentation, emergency nurse practitioners will be better prepared to manage airways, reduce complications, and improve outcomes. Learning Objectives
Mind the Gap: A Look at Toxic AlcoholsNancy Denke, DNP, ACNP-BC, FNP-BC, FAEN, CEN, CCRN - Nurse Practitioner, Toxicology Consultants of Arizona AbstractWhen we consider alcohol toxicity as a diagnosis in the altered patient, the first thing that comes to mind is ethyl alcohol intoxication. However, it is important to understand that any alcohol, when consumed in sufficient quantity, can be toxic. Other “toxic alcohols” we frequently overlook include methanol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, and isopropanol (isopropyl alcohol). In this presentation, we examine 3 different scenarios: an intentional overdose, an agitated patient who will not give you a history, and an inebriated individual with numerous medical and psychiatric histories that you have “no clue what is going on with them.”. And lastly, the simple “very drunk.”. We will touch on propylene glycol, which is seen mainly in an inpatient setting with IV infusions that contain propylene glycol as an additive but must be “considered” in any patient. It is our job as providers to identify, treat, and manage the “rare” toxic alcohols that have potentially life-threatening diagnoses. And that is not so easy! Learning Objectives
Mitigating Malpractice Risks in the Emergency Department: Strategies for Emergency Nurse PractitionersDavid Warren, FNP, ACNP, ENP, (CRNA, expected Dec 2024) - Nurse Practitioner, Integrative Emergency Services, David Warren NP PLLC AbstractThis session will focus on practical strategies and best practices for Emergency Nurse Practitioners to minimize malpractice risks in the Emergency Department (ED). Attendees will explore the concept of “standard of care”, the anatomy of a malpractice claim, common sources of malpractice claims, learn risk management techniques, and understand the importance of thorough documentation and communication. The session will include case studies, legal insights, and interactive discussions to equip Nurse Practitioners with the tools needed to reduce liability and enhance patient safety. By the end of the presentation, participants will be able to apply these strategies in their daily practice, fostering a safer and legally sound clinical environment. Learning Objectives
Emergency Nurse PractitionersKathleen Ahn, DNP, FNP-BC - Nurse Practitioner in Emergency Medicine, Volunteer Assistant Clinical Professor, UCI Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, Univeristy of California, Irvine Medical Center Tonya Santiago, DNP, FNP-BC - Nurse Practitioner in Emergency Medicine, Volunteer Assistant Clinical Professor, UCI Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, Univeristy of California, Irvine Medical Center AbstractNurse Practitioners employed in Emergency Medicine within an academic system have daily interactions with multiple specialty services. From Trauma Surgery to neurology, Ophthalmology to Rheumatology, Interventional Radiology to Colorectal Surgery, Hematology-Oncology and more, the breadth of academic medicine is represented within the system. ED NPs must be prepared to advocate for their patients by identifying a need for consult, formulating an appropriate consultation question, ordering preliminary lab or radiology testing in preparation for a potential consult, and then mastering an effective presentation to the consulting team so that a clinical need or question can be addressed. A case presentation to a specialist must be clear, concise, and tie together all pertinent information. The initial presentation to a consulting team can either forward the case expediently, or create a potential delay in care. When imposter syndrome affects NP practice, these interactions can be challenging. Learning Objectives
Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell! Pregnancy-Related, Hypertensive Emergencies That Are Easy to MissToni Dobson, MSN, APRN, ENP-C, FNP-C, RNC-OB - Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Emergency Medicine Associates AbstractIn this interactive, case-based presentation, we will cover a variety of ED presentations of pregnancy-related HTN, including pregnant and postpartum examples and some that were near-misses. Cases will be linked to the 2024 ACOG guidelines published to help non-obstetric providers manage pregnancy-related emergencies. We will discuss how to diagnose gestational hypertension, Pre-eclampsia, and Pre-eclampsia with severe features. Then, we will decide together how to treat each patient and determine who gets admitted and who goes home. Learning Objectives
Advancing Pain Management in Emergency Medicine: Innovative Approaches to Regional AnesthesiaDavid Warren, FNP, ACNP, ENP, (CRNA, expected Dec 2024) - Nurse Practitioner, Integrative Emergency Services, David Warren NP PLLC AbstractThis session will focus on innovative approaches and advancements in the use of regional anesthesia within the Emergency Department to control acute and chronic pain. Emergency Nurse Practitioners will gain insights into indications/contraindications to regional anesthesia, local anesthetic pharmacology, and basic/advanced regional anesthetic techniques that can be employed in the emergency department setting. Attendees will engage in case studies, and practice identifying anatomy on ultrasound images to understand how these advancements can enhance pain management and improve patient outcomes. Learning Objectives
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