ASPAN Standards continue to underpin perianesthesia practice. Learn what has changed in the newest revision and how clinical practice trends drive that content.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Jacque Crosson DNP RN CPAN FASPAN
4crossons@cox.net

This presentation is a review of the Clinical Practice Committee functions and services that it provides to members and non-members. It reviews the implications of the questions submitted and the topics. There will be a review of actual submissions and the topics of clinical practice.

Speaker(s)

Lori Erni BSN RN CCRN CPAN
lerni@aspan.org

The postanesthesia care unit (PACU) continues to be an area of focus for perioperative efficiency. Staffing and unavailable bays can cause patients to be held in the ORs causing further downstream delays in room turnover and patient flow. Can predictive modeling assist with having the right number of nurses in the right place at the right time?

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Jacque Crosson DNP RN CPAN FASPAN
4crossons@cox.net

Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) affects up to 40% of patients over 65 years of age within one week of surgery, with significant implications for patient recovery, cost of care, and quality of life. This session examines the multifactorial pathogenesis of POCD, including neuroinflammation, blood-brain barrier disruption, and anesthetic neurotoxicity mechanisms. Participants will explore evidence-based strategies for identifying high-risk patients through preoperative cognitive screening protocols and developing individualized care plans incorporating depth-of-anesthesia monitoring, neuroprotective anesthetic selection, and multimodal inflammatory response management.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Arney S Abcejo MD
abcejo.arnoley@mayo.edu

Brian Ward APRN CRNA DNAP
ward.brian@mayo.edu

This session highlights evidence-based advancements in post-operative care for pediatric tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy patients, with a focus on the PACU nurse’s critical role in airway safety, pain management, and family-centered recovery. Attendees will gain practical tools and protocols to identify complications early, support psychosocial needs, and optimize outcomes through tailored pediatric care strategies.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Tara Wright MSN RN CPN
tlwright40@gmail.com

Amy Berardinelli DNP APRN FNP-C NE-BC CPAN CAPA FASPAN
aberardinelli@aspan.org

This session will present the challenges adult nurses face when transitioning to pediatric care and highlights the programs designed to support this shift. It focuses on foundational pediatric knowledge helping adult nurses gain confidence and competence in caring for pediatric patients.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Kristen Martin MSN RN CPAN CAPA CPN
kmartin@northwell.edu

Dhalia Ortiz MSN RN
doirtiz11@northwell.edu

Make a splash with the latest innovation in BPH care! Aquablation is a robotic-assisted, ultrasound-guided therapy that uses a heat-free waterjet to precisely resect prostate tissue. This lively session will take perianesthesia nurses inside the procedure—from how it works to how it stacks up against traditional therapies—while diving into the essentials of pre-op prep, post-op care, and home recovery. Along the way, we’ll spotlight potential complications, share practical pearls, and highlight how nurses play a key role in ensuring safe, smooth, and patient-centered outcomes.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Mihir Thaker DO
thakerm@gmail.com

Perianesthesia nurses are at risk for becoming the second victim. Recognizing second victim phenomenon and knowing the importance of seeking help can improve patient care and advocate for the perianesthesia nurse.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Jaclyn Ivy MSN RN CAPA
jaclynivy06@gmail.com

Sharon Knauss MSN RN CAPA
knausss@ccf.org

This session will present frontline nurses to the foundational skills of advocacy in governmental affair work. Nurses will explore their critical role in influencing health policy and understand why engaging in policy is applicable to their practice.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Angie Fenton DNP MS RN CNE
angieafenton@gmail.com

In the high-acuity, fast-paced PACU environment, missed opportunities for learning can compromise both professional growth and patient outcomes. This session introduces the use of Nursing Morbidity and Mortality (M&M) conferences as a structured, non-punitive approach to case review that promotes transparency, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary collaboration. 

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Chrystal Maki MSN RN CPAN
cmaki@bidmc.harvard.edu

Mary Grzybinksi DNP RN CPAN
mgrzybin@bidmc.harvard.edu

Perianesthesia nurses must always be prepared for the unexpected emergency. Using a case study approach, this session presents patient scenarios with an unusual or unexpected clinical assessment. With audience participation a diagnosis is made! Appropriate interventions are discussed to ensure safe patient outcomes.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Maureen McLaughlin MS RN ACNS-BC CPAN CAPA FASPAN
maureen.f.mclaughlin@lahey.org

This session presents the expanding role of pediatric sedation in non-operating room settings. Emphasis will be placed on medication selection, monitoring standards, and the unique safety considerations nurses must manage in these decentralized environments.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Alison Popa MScN RN RSCN CPAN CAPA
alisonpopa.rn27@gmail.com

Perianesthesia nurses are continually confronted with clinical questions. This session provides an opportunity for learners to increase knowledge on reliable references and resources to find answers to clinical questions. 

0.75 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Nancy Strzyzewksi MSN RN CPAN CAPA
nstrzyz@sbcglobal.net

Kristen Lemorie MSN APRN AGCNS-BC CPAN CAPA
lemoriekd@gmail.com

This session will explore the unique perioperative challenges and risks faced by patients with a history of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). Attendees will learn evidence-based strategies to optimize patient outcomes through early identification, withdrawal management, and multidisciplinary care planning.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Mary Rachel Romero MSN RN CPAN CAPA
mary.rachel.romero@yahoo.com

Perianesthesia nurses play a critical role caring for patients before and after kidney transplantation. Identifying early signs of complications, managing responses to immunosuppressive therapy, and recognizing what is expected in the preadmission, day of surgery, and Phase I phases of care are all priorities. 

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Juliana Bo-Hyun Lee BSN RN CMSRN CPAN PHN
julianalee.rn@gmail.com

The older adult often presents with complex health issues that impact perioperative and postoperative management. This session reviews geriatric syndromes such as frailty and neurocognitive impairment as well as social determinants of health for the older adult. Assessment and risk mitigation strategies to optimize surgical outcomes and post anesthesia recovery are discussed.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Maureen McLaughlin MS RN ACNS-BC CPAN CAPA FASPAN 
maureen.f.mclaughlin@lahey.org

Pediatric Airways are unique and can pose many different problems or complications.  It is important to recognize increase risks that are present for surgery and to be ready to provide safe quality care in all phases of care for these patients.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Tracie Newell BSN RN CPN CAPA
tlnewell75@outlook.com

TBD 

This presentation highlights ketamine’s growing therapeutic potential alongside important safety and monitoring considerations.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Nancy Strzyzewksi MSN RN CPAN CAPA
nstrzyz@sbcglobal.net

This lecture is a call for an advanced nurse practitioner specifically for perianesthesia units. This presentation offers a proposed curriculum for the nurse practitioner when onboarding to perianesthesia in the advanced practice role.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Katherine Simpson DNP APRN-C CNRN CVRN-II LNC
nrseteacher@gmail.com

This session provides perianesthesia nurses with essential knowledge for caring for patients undergoing Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT). Topics include pre- and post-procedure nursing responsibilities, anesthesia coordination, seizure monitoring, and managing common side effects. Emphasis is placed on patient safety, communication, and recovery support to ensure high-quality, compassionate care.

0.75 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Samantha Graham MSN RN CPAN CAPA
grahams5@ccf.org

Lisa Law MSN RN CAPA
lisalaw2496@yahoo.com

PONV occurs in about 30% of all surgical patients but can be as high as 75%. A holistic approach to PONV includes risk reduction, multimodal therapies, and alternative treatments. The combination of these topics can influence treatment and reduce PONV. 

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Amy Dooley MS RN CPAN CAPA FASPAN
amydooley39101@gmail.com

Bernadette Villalpando BSN RN CPAN
bernadette.c.villalpando@lahey.org

Jennifer DeBenedetto PhD APRN FNP-C
jennifer.debenedetto@lahey.org

This presentation details the medication process from patient history, prescribing, administration, monitoring and patient teaching. Using a case study approach, medication errors are reviewed through the lens of how the error occurred and how use of technology and redundancy in practice mitigate risk. The session concludes with a brief discussion on the aftermath of an error and the need to provide support to involved staff.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Maureen McLaughlin MS RN ACNS-BC CPAN CAPA FASPAN
maureen.f.mclaughlin@lahey.org

In this session, participants will explore the development of Pediatric Safety Bundles for the PACU, focusing on creating standardized checklists for airway management, pain control, temperature regulation, IV fluids, and prevention of PONV and OIRD. The session will highlight strategies for improving the handoff process from OR → PACU → home, ensuring consistency and clarity across transitions. Attendees will also learn how to incorporate ASPAN pediatric recommendations into everyday practice while strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration to enhance safety and outcomes for pediatric patients.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Alison Popa MScN RN RSCN CPAN CAPA
alisonpopa.rn27@gmail.com

As perianesthesia practice gets busier with raising acuity and patient volumes, leaders need to consider ways to work differently. Limited staffing had one perianesthesia department using technology as a means to assist with staffing, create efficiency in the practice, and maintain patient satisfaction.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Maura McCabe MSN/Ed RN CPAN NPD-BC
mccabe.maura@mayo.edu

Orientation is great, but you can’t see or learn it all in a short period of time. This session explores methods used to educate new PACU nurses beyond the standard orientation period.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Shari Gretta MSN RN CPAN
sgretta@ccf.org

Lisa Morrow BSN RN CPAN 
morrowl@ccf.org

Are you prepared to manage a patient experiencing a malignant hyperthermia crisis? This session explores real patient case studies involving malignant hyperthermia in the perianesthesia setting. Strengthen your readiness by reviewing the pathophysiology, signs and symptoms, treatment protocols, and management strategies for this life-threatening emergency.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Karin Conklin MSN RN CAPA
kconklin@uwhealth.org

This session will present the current street, party drugs, and potential effects on the patient's comorbidities that interact with anesthesia and the emergence in the postanesthesia care unit.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Myrna Mamaril DNP RN NEA-BC CPAN CAPA FAAN FASPAN
memamar@aol.com

This session examines the pharmacologic and physiologic effects of cannabis, associated anesthetic risks, and evidence-based nursing interventions to optimize care for patients from pre-anesthesia assessment through PACU recovery.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Britini Hoien MSN RN WCC CAPA CPAN
britinihoien1@gmail.com

This lecture provides an overview of adult and pediatric cardiac surgery, focusing on perianesthesia challenges and care. The session will include evidence-based strategies for assessment, management, and recovery, with emphasis on physiological differences, anesthesia considerations, and case studies to improve practice and outcomes.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Samantha Graham MSN RN CPAN CAPA
grahams5@ccf.org

Toni Zito MSN RN CPAN CAPA FASPAN 
azito@aspan.org

This session highlights the redesign of emergency preparedness in perianesthesia through a structured, interdisciplinary mock drill framework. Scenarios included adult and pediatric Code Blue, MH crisis, LAST, postpartum hemorrhage, and obstetric hypertension.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Ashlynn Penna DNP RN CPAN CAPA NPD-BC
ashlynn_penna@yahoo.com

Over 50% of the population in the United States has an invisible disability. Come discover the biggest obstacles that these nurses face and how education can be restructured to allow for success.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Wendy Burch MSN RN
wendy.h.burch@medstar.net

Nurses are privileged to witness life's most profound moments, yet these experiences can sometimes leave invisible wounds. This interactive session will explore secondary trauma: its definition, its impact on caregivers, and effective coping strategies.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Julie McQuieter DNP RN CPAN
julie.yorkrn@gmail.com

This lecture aims to provide statistical information regarding sepsis and the high-risk surgical-patient population. The session will include an overview of pathophysiology of sepsis, recognition and treatment of sepsis, and prevention practices for perianesthesia nursing.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Charles R Blakeley MSN RN CCRN TCRN
charles.blakeley@cshs.org

This session will present practical strategies to keep your perianesthesia unit survey ready every day. How to navigate tracers, compliance hot spots, and frontline readiness with confidence will also be presented.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Sarah Collins BSN RN CAPA
collins3@ccf.org

Sharon Knauss MSN RN CAPA
knausss@ccf.org

This session brings together three essential themes in pediatric perianesthesia care, highlighting the latest innovations, implementation strategies, and evidence-based approaches. Each topic emphasizes the unique needs of pediatric patients and the crucial role of nurses in translating research into everyday clinical practice.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Alison Popa MScN RN RSCN CPAN CAPA
alisonpopa.rn27@gmail.com

Shay Glevy BSN RN CPAN CAPA
shay.glevy@gmail.com

Hasima Hajdini DNP MHCOE BSN RN CPN CPAN
hasima27@gmail.com

This lecture will present the preanesthesia evaluation of the geriatric patient for actual and potential anesthesia and surgical risk factors for the patient undergoing outpatient surgery. The pathophysiology of aging will be correlated with polypharmacy along with over-the-counter herbal medicine that influences the older adult’s preoperative preparation, but also the PACU Phases of care.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Myrna Mamaril DNP RN NEA-BC CPAN CAPA FAAN FASPAN 
memamar@aol.com

This session will outline the process of developing a TSAM orientation model for the PACU. This includes compliance documentation and concurrent online training modules.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Erin Glaser BSN RN CPAN CAPA
erin.e.glaser@gunet.georgetown.edu

Nickcole D Price MSN RN CPAN CAPA
nprice@aspan.org

Florence Baumgardner MSN RN CPAN CAPA
florence.baumgardner@medstar.net

This session will present a Crani-Debate. There was a formal policy-gap – combined with an ASPAN standard that allowed for local interpretation which led to inconsistent post-craniotomy practices. Through the use of AI tools, evidence-based practice, and interdisciplinary dialogue, the team developed a clear, written unit-level standard of care.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Kara Joustra BSN RN CCRN
kara_joustra@urmc.rochester.edu

This session will present how the Digital Reality Experiences Augmented for Medical Support (DREAMS) initiative was implemented in the perianesthesia setting for pediatric patients to assist with positively impacting the patient experience, minimizing medication exposure (and related complications), and enhancing education for patients.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Rachel Berg MSN RN CPAN
berg.rachel@mayo.edu

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a prevalent, yet under-recognized condition that poses significant risks to surgical patients. Despite utilizing screening tools like the STOP-Bang questionnaire, many institutions fail to implement effective follow-up strategies, leaving patients vulnerable to undiagnosed and untreated OSA. This session delves into the critical gap between OSA screening and intervention in the perianesthesia context.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Sonja Severson MSN RN FNP CPAN CAPA
seversonsonja@gmail.com

Mary Frances Mullins DNP RN CPAN CAPA CRNA
mac3miller2@aol.com

Nursing innovation is the process of developing and applying new ideas, technologies, practices, or approaches in nursing to improve patient care, enhance safety, and optimize healthcare delivery. It can involve rethinking workflows, adopting new tools, or creating solutions that address unmet needs in clinical practice. At its core, nursing innovation is about using creativity and evidence-based strategies to make healthcare more effective, efficient, and compassionate. This session will explore the basics of nursing innovation and practical ways to envision creating change to current health care challenges.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Christine Bell PhD RN CAPA WCC
christinefbell@gmail.com

Safety is a fundamental core value in everyday practice in the perianesthesia setting. This session will look at staffing, the environment, patient rights, stressors on the perianesthesia nurses’ well-being and how these items impact patient safety.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Linda Beagley MS RN CPAN FASPAN
lindabeagley607@gmail.com

This session will provide the basic functions and different types of pacemakers and ICDs including malfunctions and complications. Updated recommendations and guidelines will also be presented.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Wanda Rodriguez MA RN CPAN
rodriguw52@gmail.com

This session explores alternative anesthetic options such as TIVA (total intravenous anesthesia), MAC (monitored anesthesia care) and reviews new intravenous anesthetic medications including remimazolam and fospropofol. Post anesthesia care following these anesthetic approaches is discussed using a case study approach.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Maureen McLaughlin MS RN ACNS-BC CPAN CAPA FASPAN
maureen.f.mclaughlin@lahey.org

This lecture explores the impact of unconscious bias on patients undergoing gender-affirming care, with a focus on the perianesthesia setting. With the use of a case study, participants will explore how implicit attitudes can shape patient experiences and outcomes and learn strategies to promote equitable care.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Karen Guess RN CEN
karen.guess@osumc.edu

Valerie Tiu MS APRN-CNS AGCNS-BC MEDSURG-BC NPD-BC
valerie.tiu@osumc.edu

This session will explore the evolution of journal clubs and the purpose for supporting practice-based journal clubs. Steps for successful implementation of a practice-based journal club will be discussed.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Margaret McNeill PhD RN APRN-CNS CCNS EBP-C CCRN TCRN CPAN NEA-BC NHDP-BC FCNS FAAN FASPAN
mcneillm@aol.com

Effective patient care increasingly relies on seamless collaboration not only within the perianesthesia setting but also with external organizations. The perianesthesia leader plays a pivotal role in fostering these crucial interprofessional relationships. This presentation explores the expanding responsibilities of the perianesthesia leader in cultivating and sustaining collaborative partnerships with diverse healthcare entities to enhance patient outcomes and operational efficiency.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Alphonzo Baker Sr DNP RN CAPA NEA-BC FASPAN
alphonzob@gmail.com

The pregnant patient presents with challenges both physical and psychosocial since surgery itself is scary when not pregnant, the added stress of carrying a fetus brings many unknowns. This population is low volume with high risk whereas, the perianesthesia nurse may have limited knowledge and/or experience with this special population.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Linda Beagley MS RN CPAN FASPAN
lindabeagley607@gmail.com

This lecture reviews the principles of fluid management, including body fluid distribution, the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (R.A.A.S.), and the differences between isotonic, hypotonic, and hypertonic IV solutions.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Wanda Rodriguez MA RN CPAN
rodriguw52@gmail.com

This session discusses the evolution and advances of non-operating room interventional procedures including interventional cardiology, radiology, neuroradiology, endoscopy, bronchoscopy and even MRI. Procedure-specific interventions are detailed including clinical indication, post procedure complications and procedure specific discharge teaching.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Maureen McLaughlin MS RN ACNS-BC CPAN CAPA FASPAN
maureen.f.mclaughlin@lahey.org

This presentation examines how regional anesthesia improves postoperative pain management in the perianesthesia setting. It highlights key techniques, benefits, clinical evidence, nursing roles, and patient safety through case-based discussions.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Stacy Holt MSN RN
holts2@ccf.org

Shavaun Guyton MSN APRN FNP-C
guytons@ccf.org

Samantha Graham MSN RN CPAN CAPA 
grahams5@ccf.org

This session will explore research findings from 2025 that have implications for PeriAnesthesia nursing practice. An analysis of the studies using EBP critical appraisal tools will be presented.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Margaret McNeill PhD RN APRN-CNS CCRN CCNS EBP-C TCRN CPAN NEA-BC NHDP-BC FCNS FAAN FASPAN
mcneillm@aol.com

Healthcare providers such as the ER, ICU and Perianesthesia nurses are at high risk for assaults and violence. According to Press Ganey Survey in 2021, two nurses per hour are assaulted in acute care settings. This presentation will assist nurses on how to prevent or stop these violence/abuses and provide tips on what to do if encountered during your care to these patients, family members or healthcare colleagues.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Pamela Windle DNP RN NE-BC CPAN CAPA FAAN FASPAN 
pwindletx@gmail.com

This session will present how an institution promotes well-being and optimized a fragmented on-call system. The team was able to leverage teamwork, frontline perspective, and data to help restructure the on-call system. The new system improved staff satisfaction and promoted nurse-wellbeing.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Chloe Carter BSN RN CPAN
carterchloem@gmail.com

Natalie Jones BSN RN CPAN
njones6@houstonmethodist.org

ChatGPT is a large language model designed through AI (Artificial intelligence) created to engage in natural language conversations allowing it to generate human-like text, answer questions, and even assist with writing and coding. This session will cover the pears and pitfalls of ChatGPT or AI use within nursing clinical inquiry-research, EBP and QI projects and publications.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Elizabeth Card DNP APRN FNP-BC CPAN CCRP FAAN FASPAN
elizabeth@nursewellbeinginstitute.com

This session will present polypharmacy, the risks for perianesthesia patients, updated recommendations for instructing the patient on holding or continuing medications that could impact the anesthetic and procedural course, and potential complications that may occur in this patient population.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Nancy McGushin MSN RN CNL CPAN (Ret)
nmcgushin@yahoo.com

This presentation highlights the importance of effective diabetes management in the perianesthesia setting, where surgical stress and anesthesia can disrupt blood sugar control. The session will provide key strategies to monitor and manage glycemic fluctuations, reducing risks like infection, delayed healing, and extended hospital stays.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Ray Pickett MSN RN CPAN
rpickett@earthlink.net

Samantha Graham MSN RN CPAN CAPA
grahams5@ccf.org

This session explores how trauma-informed principles can transform care in the PACU, where patients often awaken, disoriented and emotionally vulnerable. Through real case examples and practical strategies, attendees will learn how to recognize trauma responses and create a safer, more compassionate recovery environment that supports healing and psychological safety.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Amy Berardinelli DNP APRN FNP-C NE-BC CPAN CAPA FASPAN
aberardinelli@aspan.org

Jamie Cooper BSN RN CPAN CAPA
jcooper2@akronchildrens.org

Over 5 million adults in the US live with autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders and need frequent medical services. A continuum of care was developed with parents/caregivers and the perianesthesia team to mitigate these challenges among pediatrics and adults with special needs. This session presents a collaborative approach to meet the unique needs of this growing population.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Geraldine delos Santos MSN RN CPAN
geraldine.delossantos@memorialhermann.org

Giovaana Trainor BS CCLS
giovaana.trainor@memorialhermann.org

Artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly present within clinical environments and may influence patient assessment, monitoring, communication, and care delivery across the perianesthesia continuum. This session examines the practical implications of AI at the bedside, focusing on how nurses can evaluate AI-supported information, recognize opportunities and limitations, and maintain patient-centered care. Participants will explore professional, ethical, and safety considerations while discussing the evolving role of the perianesthesia nurse in an AI-enabled healthcare environment.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Sarah Cartwright DNP RN NI-BC CAPA FASPAN
scartwright@aspan.org

This presentation will present how to identify and develop potential employees to fill in key leadership roles at the early stages, not when a position becomes vacant. This is a proactive approach that ensures continuity of leadership instead of reactive approach which mitigates the risks associated with unplanned departures of key personnel at work or at the component level.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Pamela Windle DNP RN NE-BC CPAN CAPA FAAN FASPAN
pwindletx@gmail.com

This session will present how hybrid care models are transforming perianesthesia nursing by integrating virtual care technologies and fostering partnerships with inpatient and ambulatory nursing teams. This presentation will highlight innovative strategies that enhance patient outcomes and streamline care delivery in the perianesthesia setting.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Kayla Simiele DNP RN NPD-BC
simiele.kayla@mayo.edu

This session will present the unique responsibilities and clinical considerations of the perianesthesia nurse during this final phase of care. The session also highlights the role of Phase III nurses in bridging gaps between acute care and home recovery, reinforcing their essential role in the surgical continuum.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Kristi Stetka MBA MSN RN
stetkak@ccf.org

Samantha Graham MSN RN CPAN CAPA
grahams5@ccf.org

Do you have a clinical practice question that just won't go away? You may have the beginning of a clinical inquiry project or study. Come learn about what makes up clinical inquiry and how it can assist you in formulating questions, discovering answers, and disseminating those questions and answers to your perianesthesia colleagues.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Christine Bell PhD RN CAPA WCC
christinefbell@gmail.com

Stepping into a managerial or educational leadership role can feel like having to switch gears mid-shift—exciting, a little uncomfortable, and occasionally chaotic. This session will present various transitions to practice frameworks, Benner’s Novice to Expert Model, and avoiding the dreaded imposter syndrome. Whether you're already in your new role or just starting, you'll leave feeling a little more ready (and a lot less alone).

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Erin Mlynczyk BSN RN CPAN CAPA
emlynczy@gmail.com

As the nursing workforce ages, many seasoned professionals face a unique set of emotional, physical, and professional challenges in their final career years.This session explores the "seasons" of a nursing career, offering practical strategies, reflective tools, and legacy-building ideas to help late-career nurses thrive—not just survive—during this meaningful transition. Attendees will gain insight into navigating role shifts, mentoring opportunities, and planning for purposeful retirement.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Deborah Moengen BSN RN CPAN
djmoengen@gmail.com

This session introduces preoperative triage, where a dedicated team member uses time spent in the waiting room to complete early screening before patients are brought back to Preop. By shifting this work upstream, the team streamlined care, identified potential cancellations earlier, and boosted nurse satisfaction in the perianesthesia setting.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Zachary Polmounter MSN RN CCRN
zachary.polmounter@pennmedicine.upenn.edu

Jennifer Goodman MSN RN CCRN
jennifer.goodman@pennmedicine.upenn.edu

Kirsten Anderson MSN RN FACHE CNOR
kirsten.anderson@pennmedicine.upenn.edu

This session offers a comprehensive, systems-based look at postoperative pressure injuries—how they develop, why they matter, and what nurses across the surgical continuum can do to prevent them. Attendees will explore the physiological impact of anesthesia, examine the latest evidence on prevention, and leave with a practical, nurse-led framework designed to unify perioperative teams in reducing harm.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Derreck DaSilva MPAff BSN RN
derreck.dasilva@gmail.com

Artificial intelligence is increasingly influencing healthcare delivery, creating new opportunities and responsibilities for perianesthesia nurses. Guided by the ASPAN Position Statement on Artificial Intelligence, this session explores the professional practice implications of AI integration, including nursing accountability, clinical judgment, patient advocacy, ethical considerations, and workforce readiness. Participants will discuss strategies for preparing nurses to work effectively in AI-augmented environments while maintaining the human-centered care, critical thinking, and professional standards that define perianesthesia nursing practice.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Sarah Cartwright DNP RN NI-BC CAPA FASPAN
scartwright@aspan.org

This session will include information on qualitative research. Different methodological approaches, aspects of data analysis, and rigor will be discussed. A comparison of qualitative and quantitative research is presented.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Margaret McNeill PhD RN APRN-CNS CCRN CCNS EBP-C TCRN CPAN NEA-BC FCNS FAAN FASPAN
mcneillm@aol.com

The perianesthesia work environment is dependent upon teamwork and can be potentially negatively impacted if there are several generations working together in the same setting without proper education and leadership to deal with the differences in outlook and work practices between the generations. Understanding and accepting generational differences may enhance team efficiency and diminish generational conflict.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Nancy McGushin MSN RN CNL CPAN (Ret) 
nmcgushin@yahoo.com

Today’s perianesthesia leaders are navigating a landscape of rapid change, workforce shortages, rising acuity, and post-pandemic recovery. This session equips nurse leaders with the tools, mindset, and strategies to lead with resilience through ongoing disruption. Participants will explore how to foster team adaptability, maintain psychological safety, and drive performance while managing constant change. This session combines real-world leadership insights with evidence-based frameworks to support the growth of strong, stable, and empowered perianesthesia teams.

0.75 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Deborah Moengen BSN RN CPAN
djmoengen@gmail.com

With the increasing complexity of patients undergoing procedures in ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs), this session will address the unique challenges and considerations for pre-screening this population. The session will highlight strategies for efficient yet thorough assessments, managing comorbidities in a resource-conscious environment, and ensuring seamless transitions of care.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Alphonzo Baker Sr DNP RN CAPA NEA-BC FASPAN
alphonzob@gmail.com

Perianesthesia nurses can be sued for negligence. This presentation will focus on the different legal perspectives that perianesthesia nurses may be clinically implicated for common causes, especially in the postanesthesia care unit (PACU). Additionally, the malpractice litigation process will be reviewed from initial interrogatories, preparing for deposition testimony, to testifying in court.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Myrna Mamaril DNP RN NEA-BC CPAN CAPA FAAN FASPAN
memamar@aol.com

Pamela Windle DNP RN NE-BC CPAN CAPA FAAN FASPAN 
pwindletx@gmail.com

Radiation exposure is a source of anxiety and stress for recovery nurses. This session will present nuclear medicine procedures like the placement of SIRT spheres and examine dosimetry recorded by our staff in the PACU while caring for these patients. This presentation will also showcase educational interventions developed to ease anxiety and increase confidence in caring for patients recovering from nuclear medicine procedures.

0.5 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Erin Glaser BSN RN CPAN CAPA
erin.e.glaser@gunet.georgetown.edu

Therese Chesnutt MSN RN CPAN CAPA 
tjc2@gunet.georgetown.edu

In this session, current events impacting nursing research will be presented. Local, regional, national and global forces impact the concerns of nurse scientisits and their patients. Congressional and cabinet level decisions impact nursing research funding and academic opportunities, and these will be covered through a non-political lens.

1.00 contact hour 

Speaker(s)

Margaret McNeill PhD RN APRN-CNS CCRN CCNS EBP-C TCRN CPAN NEA-BC NHDP-BC FCNS FAAN FASPAN
mcneillm@aol.com