ROOM: Versailles 1/2
CONTACT HOURS: 4
CRNI RUs: 8

There are recent recommendations for practice change regarding PIVC insertion and care. This workshop will explore considerations in PIVC insertion pertaining to infection control. Attendees will also learn assessment skills that will better enable them to understand care escalation and use of ultrasound to advance their practice. In addition to new practice guidance, Hospital Onset Bacteremia (HOB) is at the forefront of CMS metrics. There is a push for healthcare organizations to employ initiatives to prepare for these upcoming changes. Attendees will explore these concepts of PIVC insertion in an interactive didactic format followed by hands on practice. This workshop is sure to add necessary skills that provide better patient outcomes and prepare the attendees for upcoming anticipated changes in regulations. Learning Objectives: 1. Learn why HOB will shift facilities resources to improving PIVC care 2. Identify through video-based education and simulation contamination of the PIVC procedure 3. Describe the advantages and disadvantages of palpation and visualization and how this methodology is increasing the risk of PIVC complications and failure 4. Learn how to assess and identify a venous target with ultrasound 5. Learn when to not stick the patient and escalate to a high skilled clinician or different type of device.

ROOM: Versailles 3/4
CONTACT HOURS: 4
CRNI RUs: 8

Vascular access complications are dangerous, costly, and far too common. Whether they occur at placement or during care and management, most complications can be prevented. It requires a commitment to a comprehensive, collaborative approach, and thorough education that reflects current standards of practice. From insertion to removal, each vascular access device includes complex variations in technology, technique, and treatment. This workshop is designed to provide tools to all levels, from novice to expert, and will cover device selection, placement, and care and management. It is designed to provide clinical foundation, points to practice, and tools to educate clinicians on how to implement PIVC best practice and prevent vascular access-related complications. Attendees will participate in hands-on stations and have an opportunity at the end to share takeaways as well as discuss practical clinical application. They will leave with tools to assist them in educating and implementing best practices in their care setting. Learning Objectives: 1. Discuss the burden, prevalence, and risk of peripheral vascular catheter (PIVC) failure 2. Describe and demonstrate the importance of device and site selection 3. Demonstrate how the use of advanced technology can enhance successful device placement 4. Describe the benefits in reaching the goal of One Stick Hospital Stay 5. Articulate lessons from the workshop and how they will be utilized in your care setting

SPEAKER: Victor Rosenthal
ROOM: Rivoli C
CONTACT HOURS: 1
CRNI RUs: 2

This session will examine the epidemiology and prevention strategies for central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) and peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC) infections in low-resource settings. Research conducted by the International Nosocomial Infection Control Consortium (INICC) has identified significant differences in infection rates and clinical outcomes between low-resource settings and high-income countries. Given the unique challenges health care environments face with limited resources, this presentation will focus on practical, evidence-based solutions to reduce infection risks. Participants will gain insights into global epidemiology, health care infrastructure challenges, and effective prevention strategies tailored for underfunded health care systems. Case studies and real-world examples from the INICC will offer practical takeaways for improving patient outcomes in resource-constrained environments 

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, learners will be able to: • Describe the global burden and epidemiology of CLABSIs and PIVC infections in low-resource settings and how infection rates and clinical outcomes differ compared to high-income countries • Discuss the unique challenges faced by health care facilities in low-resource settings in preventing CLABSIs and PIVC infections, including limitations in infrastructure, staffing, and access to medical supplies • Explain evidence-based infection control strategies and interventions that can be implemented to mitigate infection risks and improve patient safety in resource-constrained environments, drawing on research and case studies from the INICC.

SPEAKER: Nancy Moureau & Jon Bell
ROOM: Rivoli C
CONTACT HOURS: 1
CRNI RUs: 2

The increasing use of ultrasound visualization to guide minimally invasive medical procedures is helping to speed vascular access, facilitate diagnoses, and decrease overall health care costs. This session will focus on evidence-based policies and practices that clinicians can adopt to reduce the risks of patient or practitioner infection when using ultrasound technologies in all settings. The presenter will discuss and explore guidelines and recommendations for the cleaning and disinfection of ultrasound transducers, the correct uses of coupling gel, and other steps that optimize ultrasound visualization when used for percutaneous procedures. 

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, learners will be able to: • Discuss ultrasound-guided peripheral catheter complication prevention principles for Aseptic Non Touch Technique (ANTT®), skin disinfection, gloving, device disinfection, and asepsis used during insertion procedures • Evaluate practice recommendations for high- and low-level disinfection for ultrasound transducer/probe cleaning with percutaneous procedures applying Spaulding Classifications and current evidence • Describe compliance assessment with infection prevention • Assess key points that surveyors want to see in association with ultrasound device usage and training

SPEAKER: Maggie Perrone
ROOM: Champagne 3/4
CONTACT HOURS: 1
CRNI RUs: 2

In this session, we will explore various aspects of resilient leadership and the challenges associated with sustaining an effective leadership role. We will discuss the key qualities that characterize effective leaders and strategies for maintaining health, resiliency, and balance in both our work and personal lives. Research has highlighted the detrimental effects of compassion fatigue on nurses and its subsequent impact on patient care delivery and overall patient satisfaction. We will examine the literature surrounding this phenomenon, how compassion fatigue manifests in nursing practice, and its implications for effective leadership. By the end of this session, participants will be equipped with strategies to develop as leaders by modeling positive leadership behaviors, fostering resilience, and prioritizing wellness for themselves and their teams. We will also explore methods for building resilient resources, enabling a sustainable work-life balance while maintaining our sense of wellbeing. 

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, learners will be able to: • Define leadership and outline strategies for growing into a leadership role • Identify the signs and symptoms of compassion fatigue, distinguish it from burnout, and describe intervention strategies • Explore tools to manage personal and professional stressors that can lead to compassion fatigue and hinder effective leadership • Understand the impact of compassion fatigue on nursing practice and identify available resources for support

SPEAKER: Karen Chasse
ROOM: Versailles 1/2
CONTACT HOURS: 1
CRNI RUs: 2

This session provides a comprehensive overview of infusion nursing care for patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), focusing on intravenous therapies. Participants will gain an understanding of PAH pathophysiology, prevalence, and treatment progression, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and therapy. The session covers practical considerations for initiating intravenous therapies, including vascular access device selection and patient/caregiver requirements. Evidence-based guidelines for catheter care, medication management, and sterile techniques are highlighted, along with strategies for addressing complications like infections, occlusions, and rebound PAH. Through interactive discussions and case scenarios, nurses will also explore tapering and transitioning of PAH medications, emergency protocols, and effective patient education methods to optimize outcomes across inpatient, outpatient, and home care settings. 

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, learners will be able to: • Describe the causes and therapy options for PAH • Discuss practical requirements and vascular access devices • Emphasize evidence-based protocols for infusion therapy • Address nursing considerations, complications, and patient education • Explain emergency protocols for infused prostacyclin and transitioning and tapering of PAH medications.

SPEAKER: Aaron Braun
ROOM: Versaille 3/4
CONTACT HOURS: 1
CRNI RUs: 2

Implanted ports are often our patient’s lifeline and should be inserted not only following best practices, but with the patient’s quality of life, ease of use, care, and management in mind. This session will illustrate a physician’s journey to create the optimal scenario for port placement taking into consideration insertion procedure, access, multi-disciplinary collaboration, outcomes, and patient considerations. 

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, learners will be able to: Describe the primary elements of patient assessment and therapy considerations that determine location and type of implanted port to be inserted. Review clinical scenarios outlining opportunities for the clinician to advocate for the patient for port placement and access. Understand the patient perspective of living with an implanted port

SPEAKER: Nancy Moureau, Tiffany Wiksten, Jenn Hilliard, Jon Bell
ROOM: Rivoli C
CONTACT HOURS: 1
CRNI RUs: 2

The increasing use of ultrasound visualization to guide minimally invasive medical procedures is helping to speed vascular access, facilitate diagnoses, and decrease overall health care costs. The session will engage a Joint Commission speaker and a panel of experts to discuss hot topics applied from Standards for ultrasound-guided peripheral insertions. The presenter will describe the approach that accreditation agencies take to assessing compliance, including application of the Spaulding classification system; what surveyors want to see; and how practitioners can clarify manufacturer instructions for use. The panel will discuss and explore guidelines and recommendations for the cleaning and disinfection of ultrasound transducers, the correct uses of coupling gel, and other steps that optimize ultrasound visualization when used for percutaneous procedures. 

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, learners will be able to: • Evaluate practice recommendations for high- and low-level disinfection for ultrasound transducer/probe cleaning with percutaneous procedures applying Spaulding Classifications and current evidence • Describe Joint Commission survey compliance assessment • Assess key points surveyors want to see in association with ultrasound device usage and training • Discuss key topics and issues faced by clinicians in the panel and through questions

SPEAKER: Tim Spencer
ROOM: Champagne 3/4
CONTACT HOURS: 1
CRNI RUs: 2

This session will provide a comprehensive review of current evidence-based ultrasound assessment protocols designed to enhance patient safety and reduce procedural complications in venous and arterial access. Ultrasound (US) offers superior procedural advantages and serves as a platform for thorough assessment of vascular structures —evaluating vessel health, viability, size, patency, and identifying critical anatomical structures to avoid. Implementing a systematic, protocolized approach for US-guided vascular access ensures procedural safety and high success rates across clinical situations. Standardizing these protocols minimizes variability in clinical practice, provides a framework for education and training, facilitates implementation, and enables effective quality analysis. This session will cover key protocols such as Rapid Central Vein Assessment (RaCeVA), Rapid Peripheral Vein Assessment (RaPeVA), Rapid Femoral Vein Assessment (RaFeVA), and others, offering limited explanations of each to equip clinicians with the knowledge to improve performance and patient outcomes. Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, learners will be able to: • Describe the current evidence-based ultrasound assessment protocols and the steps involved in performing them. • Discuss the importance and relevance of using standardized assessment protocols to improve clinician performance, reduce patient harm, and enhance procedural efficiency and outcomes. • Explain the pre-procedural role in vessel and device selection, determining underlying structures to avoid, and preventing iatrogenic complications.

SPEAKER: Amanda Falk Vargas
ROOM: Versailles 1/2
CONTACT HOURS: 1
CRNI RUs: 2

Anti-amyloid antibody infusions are being prescribed for mild Alzheimer’s disease. Considerations for these infusions include patient eligibility, patient and caregiver education, and adverse reactions. Updates to insurance drug coverage pathways and potential registry requirements will be reviewed. This session will use case studies to describe an effective and comprehensive referral and treatment process. 

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, learners will be able to: Describe the mechanism of action of anti-amyloid medications. Differentiate between eligible and ineligible patients for anti-amyloid antibody therapy. Develop an infusion therapy process to maximize the benefit of anti-amyloid antibody therapy for patients with Alzheimer’s disease