Regional Leadership Session
Time: 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM | Pre-Conference Session | Additional Registration Required
The SGNA Regional Leadership Session at the Annual Course is a program designed to offer essential tools and tips on leadership to current, new and future regional leaders, as well as a chance for existing regional leaders to further invest in their leadership skills.
SGNA Reprocessing Training: A Comprehensive Review of Endoscope Reprocessing (Morning)
Time: 7:30 AM - 11:15 AM | Pre-Conference Session | Additional Registration Required
This hands-on course is designed for nurses and technicians in the GI setting who are responsible for ensuring safe and effective cleaning and disinfection of endoscopes, offering practical tools and techniques aligned with SGNA Standards and Guidelines.
CGRN Exam Essentials
Time: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM | 8.0 Contact Hours | Pre-Conference Session | Additional Registration Required
This course will provide an overview of key areas related to GI/endoscopy nursing practice. Additionally, tips on how to prepare for the ABCGN Certification Exam will be presented. Please note that specific CGRN certification exam questions will not be presented. Please refer to ABCGN for a full listing of resources.
Pursuing Excellence in Motility/pH Procedures (Manometry)
Time: 1:15 PM - 4:00 PM | Pre-Conference Session | Additional Registration Required
This session provides an opportunity to expand your nursing practice to better understand the activities taking place in a motility/pH lab. It will include an overview and discussion of the anatomy and physiology of the swallowing tract, esophageal motility disorders and Gastro/Esophageal reflux disease. Esophageal motility disorders using the Chicago Classification will be reviewed including achalasia. New research will be discussed regarding recommended treatments of motility disorders. Hands-on opportunities with demonstration and break-out tables will be offered using the latest technology available for both motility and pH testing.
SGNA Reprocessing Training: A Comprehensive Review of Endoscope Reprocessing (Afternoon)
Time: 1:15 PM - 5:15 PM | Pre-Conference Session | Additional Registration Required
This hands-on course is designed for nurses and technicians in the GI setting who are responsible for ensuring safe and effective cleaning and disinfection of endoscopes, offering practical tools and techniques aligned with SGNA Standards and Guidelines.
First-Time Attendee Orientation
Time: 7:00 AM - 7:45 AM
Opening Ceremonies and Keynote: Creating a Strong Future for Nursing Through Relational Competencies
Time: 8:00 AM - 10:15 AM | General Session | Track: Other
Speaker: Donna Wright, MS RN NPD-BC
Achalasia - More Than a Tough Pill to Swallow
Time: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM | General Session | Track: Disease
Speaker: Nikolai A. Bildzukewicz, MD
Lunch on Own
Time: 12:15 PM - 1:45 PM
Master the Skill in Writing an Abstract: Tips & Tricks
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM | Concurrent Session | Track: Other
Speaker: Simi J. Joseph, PhD DNP APRN ANP-C NEA-BC FNAP
This presentation focuses on how to write an abstract for a poster presentation or a podium presentation. After attending this session, nurses will be able to understand the standard structure of an abstract, how to write each section concisely, and how to follow the guidelines when writing an abstract. In addition, this session will increase the confidence and skill in using APA format in the reference section of their scientific paper.
Your Skin Injury Is History
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM | Concurrent Session | Track: Evidence-Based Practice
Speaker: Lauren Gallagher, BSN RN
Learn how to prevent skin injuries for patients in the prone position undergoing ERCP procedures.
Abdominal Pressure, Ergonomics and Nurse and Patient Safety in the Endoscopy Suite
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM | Concurrent Session | Track: Procedure Skills
Speaker: Coming Soon
Gastric Cancer: When the Butterflies Turn Evil
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM | Concurrent Session | Track: Disease
Speaker: Nikolai A. Bildzukewicz, MD
Have you ever felt anxious or nervous? Maybe you felt "butterflies in your stomach." Now imagine getting diagnosed with gastric cancer! If diagnosed early, long-term survival can be achieved, but too often, this is not the case. Come learn about who gets stomach cancer, and more importantly, what is being done to identify and properly treat these patients in a timely manner.
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth: What We Know and What We Don’t
Time: 3:15 PM - 4:15 PM | Concurrent Session | Track: Disease
Speaker: Paula Gallagher, MFN RD LD
The definition of Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) as a clinical entity lacks precision and consistency. However, it is most commonly defined as the presence of excessive bacteria in the small intestine. While controversial and not completely understood, the American College of Gastroenterology has developed best practices to treat the condition.
Session Coming Soon
Time: 3:15 PM - 4:15 PM | Concurrent Session | Track: Disease
Speaker: Jeanetta Frye, MD
The Twilight Zone: Building Competence and Confidence With Nurse Sedation in a World of MAC
Time: 3:15 PM - 4:15 PM | Concurrent Session | Track: Procedure Skills
Speaker: Coming Soon
Explore the history and evolution of moderate sedation in endoscopic procedures, highlighting the shift towards anesthesiologist-led sedation and its impact on nurses' skills. Learn how high-fidelity patient simulation (HFPS) can enhance learning and competency in moderate sedation through literature insights and a case study of a simulation education session.
Cultivating a Culture of Quality Improvement (QI): Foundation and Best Practices for Success in Endoscopy and Perioperative Units
Time: 3:15 PM - 4:15 PM | Concurrent Session | Track: Operational Management
Speaker: Marcelo C. Melo, MSN RN CGRN CNOR
This session will discuss the foundation and best practices for CQI projects and initiatives in endoscopy and perioperative units. With real-world examples, attendees will gain insights into applying a successful quality improvement initiative and learn from their successes and challenges.
Exhibit Hall Opening Reception
Time: 4:15 PM - 6:45 PM
Colorectal Cancer Screening 2025 – What’s New and What You Can Do
Time: 8:00 AM - 9:45 AM | General Session
Speaker: Cynthia Yoshida, MD
The purpose of this session is to update attendees on the current state of colorectal cancer screening options in 2025 and to introduce them to new and upcoming screening modalities (such as blood-based screening, stool RNA tests and multi-cancer early detection tests). The session will also cover the importance of colonoscopy quality and completion of colonoscopy after a positive stool-based screening test and will discuss opportunities for GI nurses/techs to improve CRC screening rates at their own organization/practice.
The Future of The Gut Microbiome
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM | Concurrent Session | Type: Disease
Speaker: Paula Gallagher, MFN RD LD
The is mounting evidence that the gut microbiome may be implicated in the development, progression, and treatment of many disease states. Microorganisms in the gut are being studied for their role in diseases ranging from cancer to obesity. This session will present the newest research on the links between various disease states and gut health as well as emerging technologies.
Implementing a Team-Based Endoscopy Nurse Simulation Training Program to Increase Nurse Competency and Emergency Preparedness: A QI Project
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM | Concurrent Session | Type: Evidence-Based Practice/Research
Speaker: Allison Stefani, RN BSN DNP-FNP (C)
Presentation of one Endoscopy Center's implementation of a comprehensive GI nurse training program utilizing simulation training to increase nurse competency, emergency preparedness, job satisfaction, patient safety, and access to care. A thorough discussion of the steps taken in planning, implementing, and analyzing this novel training program for GI nurses based on evidence-based, patient-centered practice.
Learning From Our Past to Build Our Future
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM | Concurrent Session | Type: Operational Management
Speakers: Cynthia M. Friis, MEd BSN RN NPD-BC, and Lisa Heard, DNP RN CGRN CPHQ CPPS
This session aims to explore diverse strategies for nurses to support each other's health and professional well-being. Participants will discuss collaborative approaches to building a better future for nursing, drawing from historical insights, and fostering mutual support for the years ahead.
Improving Veteran Outcomes with Automated Text Messaging Protocols
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM | Concurrent Session | Type: Other
Speaker: Phyllis Dodson, RN CGRN
Durham VA Healthcare System GI clinic implements 'VA Mobile Annie' to motivate Veterans to be proactive in self-management when preparing for GI procedures. Annie app text messages provide patient education prior to GI procedures and follow-up messages encouraging patients to report any post-procedure concerns.
Exhibit Hall Open
Time: 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM
Session Coming Soon
Time: 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM | Concurrent Session | Type: Disease
Speaker: Shelby Wills, DNP APRN AGNP-C
Top Ten Clinical Findings in GI
Time: 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM | Concurrent Session | Type: Infection Prevention
Speaker: Beth Hogan, MSN RN CGRN CNOR CASC CNAMB
Prepping for an accreditation survey can be almost as challenging as prepping for your colonoscopy, maybe worse if you aren't prepared. Let a Joint Commission surveyor share what the most common clinical findings have been in the past year and let you in on some of the best practices as seen in organizations that were survey-ready.
Session Coming Soon
Time: 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM | Concurrent Session | Type: Other
Speaker: Coming Soon
SGNA Practice Guideline Primer
Time: 2:30 PM - 3:15 PM | Concurrent Session | Type: Other
Speakers: Jay Lardizabal, MSN MAN APRN FNP-C CGRN, and Amy Granato, MSN RN CGRN CFER
Participants will gain insight into the latest updates of SGNA practice documents including the Management of Endoscopic Accessories, Valves, and Water and Irrigation Bottles in the Gastroenterology Setting (2024), Standard of Infection Prevention in the Gastroenterology Setting (2024), Standards of Infection Prevention in Reprocessing Flexible Gastrointestinal Endoscopes (2023), and Safety in the Gastroenterology Setting (2021).
Presenting With Purpose: Tips on Speaking Effectively
Time: 3:15 PM - 4:00 PM | Concurrent Session | Type: Other
Speakers: Jay Lardizabal, MSN MAN APRN FNP-C CGRN, and Cynthia M. Friis, MEd BSN RN NPD-BC
Participants will acquire knowledge and beginning skills in public speaking. Participants learn valuable tips and have the opportunity to practice their presentation skills.
Celiac Disease - More Than Just Gluten-Free
Time: 4:15 PM - 5:15 PM | Concurrent Session | Type: Disease
Speaker: Eric Meyer, RD PA-C
This session presents an overview of celiac disease. The session begins with a review of diagnostic criteria for celiac disease, including guidelines for obtaining small bowel biopsies, as well as making a comparison with non-celiac gluten sensitivity. Epidemiological topics of celiac disease including incidence, risk factors, morbidity and mortality are explained, followed by a review of treatment requirements for the disorder.
Empowering Patients Through Education
Time: 4:15 PM - 5:15 PM | Concurrent Session | Type: Operational Management
Speaker: Kathryn S. Felts, BSN CGRN
Nursing engagement, an essential element of high-quality care, utilizing education and navigation strategies to guide patients through the various diagnostic and treatment approaches required to treat GI malignancies empowers patients to move forward safely, effectively, confidently, and meaningfully through the challenges they face daily.
The WRITE Project
Time: 4:15 PM - 5:15 PM | Concurrent Session | Type: Other
Speakers: Rhoda Redulla DNP RN NPD-BC FAAN, and Kathy Baker, PhD RN ACNS-BC FAAN
Innovating Care: Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in the Ambulatory Setting
Time: 4:15 PM - 5:15 PM | Concurrent Session | Type: Procedure Skills
Speaker: Christie McAvey, BSN RN CGRN
Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) represents a groundbreaking treatment for pseudomembranous colitis caused by Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile) infection, offering a novel approach in ambulatory care settings. FMT, by restoring the gut microbiota balance through the introduction of healthy donor feces, presents a promising therapeutic alternative.
Emerging Topics in Infection Control: Strategies for Future Preparedness and Clinical Continuity
Time: 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM | General Session | Type: Infection Prevention
Speaker: J. Hudson Garrett Jr., Ph.D. MSN MPH MBA AE-MBA FNP-BC IP-BC PLNC VA-BC BC-MSLcert™ HACP HACP-IC MSL-BC CPHRM CHIPP-B CIC LTC-CIP CPPS CPHQ CVAHPTM ICE-CCP CMRP CPXP CAE CDIPC FACDONA eFACHDM FAOM FAAPM FRSPH FNAP FACHE FSHEA FIDSA FAHVAP
SGNA Celebration
Time: 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Medications for the Gut and Beyond: Innovations in Gastroenterology Pharmacology
Time: 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM | Concurrent Session | Type: Disease
Speakers: Karin Cierzan RN CGRN CRNI VA-BC, and Sarah Stainko, MSN NP-C
Gastroenterology pharmacology is an ever-evolving field. Understanding new and old-generation medications is critical for the gastroenterology nurse. Common disease processes such as reflux, diarrhea, constipation, gastroparesis and inflammatory bowel disease, have evidence-based guidelines for their treatment but new medications are on the rise. This talk will highlight a pharmacology overview of treatments and new-generation medications that are currently being used by patients.
Poster Oral Presentations
Time: 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM | Concurrent Session | Type: Other
Speakers: Coming Soon
Oral presentations from the top-scoring poster submissions.
Session Coming Soon
Time: 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM | Concurrent Session | Type: Disease
Speaker: Shelby Wills, DNP APRN AGNP-C
Session Coming Soon
Time: 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM | Concurrent Session | Type: Operational Management
Speaker: Heather Carter-Templeton, PhD RN NI-BC FAAN
Session Coming Soon
Time: 9:15 AM - 10:15 AM | Concurrent Session | Type: Disease
Speaker: Luke Hillman, MD
Enhancing Nursing Staff Retention Through Trauma-Informed Care
Time: 9:15 AM - 10:15 AM | Concurrent Session | Type: Operational Management
Speaker: Christie McAvey, BSN RN CGRN
Retention of nursing staff is essential for maintaining quality patient care and organizational stability. Integrating Trauma-Informed Care principles into nursing practice and organizational culture in healthcare institutions will create environments that increase feelings of safety and satisfaction while providing support for the well-being of patients, staff and caregivers.
Session Coming Soon
Time: 9:15 AM - 10:15 AM | Concurrent Session | Type: Other
Speakers: Coming Soon
Improving HLD Practices in Decentralized Ambulatory Centers
Time: 9:15 AM - 10:15 AM | Concurrent Session | Type: Operational Management
Speaker: Coming Soon
Large organizations with many ambulatory practices need to create a process to assure HLD. We have over 14 decentralized centers all very different - A consistent methodology needs to be in place to ensure reduced gaps in HLD practices.
Screening Modalities in Pancreatic Cancer
Time: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM | Concurrent Session | Type: Disease
Speaker: Ricketta Clark, DNP FNP-BC
Screening for pancreatic cancer is challenging due to its asymptomatic early stages and lack of effective screening tests. However, identifying high-risk groups and utilizing a combination of risk assessment tools, imaging modalities, and biomarker tests can enhance early detection, necessitating continued research and collaboration for improved outcomes.
Enhancing Patient Safety with an Endoscopy-Specific Checklist
Time: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM | Concurrent Session | Type: Evidence-Based Practice/Research
Speaker: Jacqueline Griffin, MSN BSN-RN CGRN
An Endoscopy-Specific Safety Checklist ensures that every step is meticulously followed, guaranteeing patient well-being and procedural success. Join us in revolutionizing endoscopy practices for a safer and more efficient healthcare experience.
Forging Futures With Certification
Time: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM | Concurrent Session | Type: Other
Speaker: Conrad C. Worrell, BSN RN CGRN
Certification for the GI nurse is important as it helps to improve patient outcomes in the GI space, be it Endoscopy, GI Clinic or GI infusion. It also shows your commitment to staff and patients on your commitment to this special field of nursing.
A Professional Perspective on Foreign Body Predicaments
Time: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM | Concurrent Session | Type: Procedure Skills
Speaker: Stephanie L. Rollo, BSN RN CGRN
Certification for the GI nurse is important as it helps to improve patient outcomes in the GI space, be it Endoscopy, GI Clinic or GI infusion. It also shows your commitment to staff and patients on your commitment to this special field of nursing.
Lunch on Own
Time: 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Acute GI Case Series: A Brain Walk for Advanced Practice Nurses
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM | Concurrent Session | Type: Disease
Speaker: Simi J. Joseph, PhD DNP APRN ANP-C NEA-BC FNAP
The cases presented focus on the best practices for inpatient management of the disease process and diagnostic algorithms. Cases such as upper GI bleeding, acute dysphagia, acute abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, bowel obstruction, hepatitis, choledocholithiasis, hepatic diseases, & anemia. After attending this session, nurses and advanced practice nurses (APN) will be able to learn different case presentations in an acute care setting and how to diagnose and treat those conditions. In addition, this session will increase the confidence and skill sets of APNs in hospitalist or specialty practice roles.
Forging a Robust Endoscope Reprocessing Program
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM | Concurrent Session | Type: Infection Prevention
Speaker: James Collins, BS RN CNOR
This program will supply a solid foundation to augment the participants' knowledge and awareness of infection prevention strategies within the GI Unit. Inadequacies in endoscope reprocessing have been associated with the outbreak of endoscope-associated infections. Unfortunately, these infections have been linked to significant morbidity and mortality. It is Imperative caregivers are educated on the current endoscope reprocessing guidelines to promote a safer environment for the patients we serve as well as our fellow caregivers.
Session Coming Soon
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM | Concurrent Session | Type: Other
Speaker: Coming Soon
SGNA Business Meeting & Closing Session: Barretts Esophagus
Time: 2:15 PM - 4:00 PM | General Session | Type: Disease
Speaker: Raman Muthusamy, MD