Registration Hours
Time: 6:30 AM - 6:00 PM | Location: Ballroom Gallery
Workshop Coffee Break
Time: 6:45 AM - 8:00 AM | Location: Ballroom Gallery
LS-01: Regional Leadership Session
Time: 7:00 AM - 3:25 PM | Pre-Conference Session | Additional Registration Required
Speakers: Regional Society Committee
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.
PC-02: SGNA Reprocessing Training: A Comprehensive Review of Endoscope Reprocessing (Morning)
Time: 7:30 AM - 11:15 AM | Pre-Conference Session | Additional Registration Required
Speakers: Linda S. Curtin, RN MSN CGRN CFER, and James Collins, BS RN CNOR
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.
PC-01: CGRN Exam Essentials
Time: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM | 8.0 Contact Hours | Pre-Conference Session | Additional Registration Required
Speakers: Cathleen Shellnutt, DNP APRN AGCNS-BC CGRN, and Jay Lardizabal, MSN MAN APRN FNP-C CGRN
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.
Think BEyond Dysplasia: Leveraging Precision Molecular Risk Stratification in the Clinical Management of Barrett’s Esophagus (Castle Biosciences)
Time: 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM | Vendor Program | RSVP Now
Speaker: Kim Grace, MS CGC, Medical Affairs, Castle Biosciences, GI
This session highlights the current challenges in managing patients with non-dysplastic Barrett's esophagus (BE) and how TissueCypher testing can personalize care and help prevent progression to high-grade dysplasia or esophageal cancer.
Workshop Coffee Break
Time: 12:45 PM - 2:45 PM | Location: Ballroom Gallery
PC-04: Pursuing Excellence in Motility/pH Procedures (Manometry)
Time: 1:15 PM - 5:15 PM | Pre-Conference Session | Additional Registration Required
Speakers: Nancy Denton, BSN RN CGRN, Kim Venturella, BSN RN CGRN, Rebecca Chandler, BSN RN CGRN, and Kara Crawford, ST
This session provides an opportunity to expand your nursing practice and better understand the activities taking place in a motility/pH lab. The course includes an overview and discussion of the anatomy and physiology of the swallowing tract, esophageal motility disorders and gastro/esophageal reflux disease, and an exciting new addition, a presentation on EndoFlip. Esophageal motility disorders using the Chicago Classification will be reviewed including achalasia. Additionally, new research regarding recommended treatments of motility disorders will be reviewed.
The course includes hands-on learning with demonstration and break-out tables using the latest technology available for both motility and pH testing.
PC-03: SGNA Reprocessing Training: A Comprehensive Review of Endoscope Reprocessing (Afternoon)
Time: 1:15 PM - 5:15 PM | Pre-Conference Session | Additional Registration Required
Speakers: Linda S. Curtin, RN MSN CGRN CFER, and James Collins, BS RN CNOR
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.
Saturday Night Live With Erbe: Electrosurgery to Cryo technology: Bridging the Gap between Fire & Ice (Erbe)
Time: 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM | Contact Hours: 1.0 + 4.0 | Vendor Program | RSVP Now
Speakers: Rhonda DelCampo, BSN RN CGRN, and Austin Nielsen, BSN RN CGRN
This fun and interactive educational offering is sure to jump-start your SGNA experience. This “world famous” session will discuss basic principles and properties of electrosurgery, along with variables in the clinical circuit. Argon plasma coagulation history and technique will also be discussed. The bridge between the use of electrosurgery, argon plasma coagulation and Cryo technology in both GI and the Pulmonary arena will be covered. One (1.0) contact hour will be issued for each participant for the live presentation. Each attendee will also be given the opportunity to receive four (4.0) additional FREE contact hours upon completion of self-study guides - Electrosurgery in GI Endoscopy and Argon Plasma Coagulation in Flexible Endoscopy.
Heavy hors d’oeuvres and beverages will be served. Doors open at 4:45 PM.
Attendance will be limited to 200 people and seats fill up fast, so don’t delay. As a registered attendee, you need to be present and sign in by 5:00 PM, at which time we will begin to allocate slots to those on the waitlist.
Registration Hours
Time: 6:30 AM - 6:00 PM | Location: Ballroom Gallery
Transform the Way You Manage Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) (Regeneron)
Time: 6:45 AM - 7:45 AM | Location: Room 315-316 | Vendor Program | RSVP Link Coming Soon
Speaker: David M. Poppers, MD PhD FASGE AGAF
Learn about the first and only FDA-approved treatment for EoE patients as young as 1 year.
Enhancing Procedural Safety in the GI Suite (Stryker)
Time: 6:45 AM - 7:45 AM | Location: Room 319-320 | Vendor Program | RSVP Now
Speaker: Carol Stevens, RN BSN CGRN
This presentation highlights strategies to improve safety and efficiency in GI procedures, including effective fluid waste management and infection prevention. It will highlight Stryker's Neptune S system for waste management and polyp collection. It also introduces Stryker’s Procedural Oxygen Mask, which is designed to enhance patient safety and support staff protection during endoscopy.
Capacity is limited to 200 attendees, and breakfast will be provided.
Light Breakfast & Coffee
Time: 6:45 AM - 8:00 AM | Location: Ballroom Gallery
First-Time Attendee Orientation
Time: 7:00 AM - 7:45 AM | Location: Room 310-311
Opening Ceremonies and Keynote: GS-01: Creating a Strong Future for Nursing Through Relational Competencies
Time: 8:00 AM - 10:15 AM | Location: Ballroom A | General Session | Track: Other
Speaker: Donna Wright, MS RN NPD-BC
Competency is more than technical skills. We all need skills to connect and attune with our patients and each other. We will explore all kinds of competencies from attitude competencies to self-awareness. We will dive into communication skills, resiliency techniques, managing chaos, and decreasing fear-driven responses. You will take away a whole new perspective on competency assessment and make a stronger healing environment.
Coffee Break
Time: 10:15 AM - 10:30 AM | Location: Ballroom Gallery
GS-02: Achalasia - More Than a Tough Pill to Swallow
Time: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM | Location: Ballroom A | General Session | Track: Disease
Speaker: Nikolai A. Bildzukewicz, MD
Achalasia is a rare disease characterized by progressive dysphagia, often over many years. First, patients develop difficulty swallowing solid food, then eventually liquids, then even their pills become "hard to swallow." If left untreated, the esophagus can be become extremely tortuous and even resemble the colon! Come learn more about this rare disorder, and what can be done to allow these patients to swallow normally again.
Lunch on Own
Time: 12:15 PM - 1:45 PM
Current Treatment Modalities for GI Bleeding (Boston Scientific)
Time: 12:15 PM - 1:45 PM | Location: Room 319-320 | Contact Hours: 1.0 | Vendor Program | RSVP Now
Speakers: Shailendra Singh, MD
Gastrointestinal bleeding is a common diagnosis in surgical and endoscopic suites. This generic term refers to conditions resulting from a variety of diseases and disorders. In this one-hour continuing education activity, the speaker will explore various sources of GI bleeding encountered in the GI Suite. Participants will discuss current hemostatic treatment options, such as sclerotherapy, banding, thermal treatment, bipolar therapy and combination therapy. They will review indications and contraindications of emerging technologies for treatment of GI bleeding.
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Abdominal Pressure Strategies to Improve the Culture of Safety in Endoscopy (ColoWrap)
Time: 12:15 PM - 1:45 PM | Location: Room 317-318 | Contact Hours: 1.0 | Vendor Program | RSVP Now
Speakers: Marybeth Spanarkel, MD FACG, Allison Eger, BSN RN AMB-RN CGRN, Denny Dumais, BSN RN CGRN, and Laurie Page, BSN RN CAPA CGRN
Is your team equipped with the latest strategies to reduce risk and improve outcomes in the endoscopy suite?
ColoWrap’s continuing education course offers nurses and GI staff evidence-based practices to enhance patient safety, reduce procedural strain, and create a more efficient clinical environment. Earn CE credit while learning practical tools that empower your team—and protect your patients.
Lunch and beverages will be provided to attendees.
Understanding EUS Technology and Clinical Applications (Olympus)
Time: 12:15 PM - 1:45 PM | Location: Room 319-320 | Vendor Program | RSVP Now
Shannonlee Miller, BSDI RT(R) RDMS
Join us for a hot lunch and learn the basics of endoscopic ultrasound. Ideal for nurses, nurse managers, and technicians, this session will feature information on the physics of ultrasound, GI ultrasound anatomy, ultrasound characteristics and terminology, and will review new EUS technology.
CS-01: Forging Futures With Certification
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM | Location: Ballroom B | Concurrent Session | Type: Other
Speaker: Lisa Corral BSN, RN CGRN, Judy Sandoval, BSN RN CGRN, Deah Davis, MSN RN CGRN, Heather Rich, ABCGN Executive Director
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.
CS-02: Your Skin Injury Is History
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM | Location: Room 301-305 | Concurrent Session | Track: Evidence-Based Practice
Speaker: Megan Klekos, RN
Learn how to prevent skin injuries for patients in the prone position undergoing ERCP procedures.
CS-03: Carpe’ Futurum: Nursing Professional Growth Strategies
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM | Location: Room 406 | Concurrent Session | Type: Disease
Speaker: Rhoda Redulla, DNP RN NPD-BC FAAN, and Cynthia M. Friis, MEd BSN RN NPD-BC
The opportunities in nursing are vast and open to all of us. We need to consider what interests and motivates us and take the next steps in seeking them out. This session will explore professional growth opportunities and strategies to achieve your professional potential.
CS-04: Gastric Cancer: When the Butterflies Turn Evil
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM | Location: Room 407 | 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.
Beverage Break
Time: 3:00 PM - 3:15 PM | Location: Ballroom Gallery
CS-05: Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth: What We Know and What We Don’t
Time: 3:15 PM - 4:15 PM | Location: Room 407 | 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.
CS-06: Constipation: Pearls and Pitfalls
Time: 3:15 PM - 4:15 PM | Location: Room 301-305 | Concurrent Session | Track: Disease
Speaker: Jeanetta Frye, MD
This session will review the pathophysiology of chronic constipation as well as diagnosis evaluation and treatment.
CS-07: The Twilight Zone: Building Competence and Confidence With Nurse Sedation in a World of MAC
Time: 3:15 PM - 4:15 PM | Location: Room 406 | Concurrent Session | Track: Procedure Skills
Speaker: Bobbie Crider, BSN
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.
CS-08: 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 | Location: Ballroom B | 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 | Location: Hall B
Registration Hours
Time: 7:00 AM - 4:30 PM | Location: Ballroom Gallery
Scoping the Scope: Enhanced Visual Inspection of GI Endoscopes (Healthmark)
Time: 6:45 AM - 7:45 AM | Location: Room 319-320 | Contact Hours: 1.0 | Vendor Program | RSVP Now
Speakers: Bradley Catalone, PhD MBA, Jahan Azizi, BS CBET, and Dyan Darga, MSN RN CGRN NE-BC
During this 1-hour informative program, clinical educators will present information on the latest innovations in inspection of flexible GI endoscopes, including the use of artificial intelligence (AI). Current recommended/required industry standards and guidelines will be discussed. Additionally, we will highlight the use of AI for internal inspection of endoscope channels using a borescope including recent imagery obtained during inspections of endoscopes. Implementation of these new processes will improve quality control of endoscope processing designed to enhance patient safety.
One (1.0) contact hour will be issued for each participant for the live presentation. Breakfast and beverages will be served!
Low Fuss, High Impact: Tools for Colorectal Cancer (CRC) Screening (Olympus)
Time: 6:45 AM - 7:45 AM | Location: Room 315-316 | Vendor Program | RSVP Now
Speaker: Jake Thieman
Join us for a hot breakfast and explore common challenges during colonoscopies, such as scope navigation, lesion detection, and procedural efficiency. Gain insights into tools for CRC screening, such as TXI™ technology and the ENDOCUFF VISION™ device, designed to help increase physicians’ adenoma detection rates.
GS-03: Colorectal Cancer Screening 2025 – What’s New and What You Can Do
Time: 8:00 AM - 9:45 AM | Location: Ballroom A | 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.
Coffee Break
Time: 9:45 AM - 10:45 PM | Location: Ballroom Gallery
CS-09: The Future of The Gut Microbiome
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM | Location: Ballroom B | 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.
CS-10: 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 | Location: Room 301-305 | 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.
CS-11: Learning From Our Past to Build Our Future
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM | Location: Room 406 | 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.
CS-12: Improving Veteran Outcomes with Automated Text Messaging Protocols
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM | Location: Room 407 | Concurrent Session | Type: Other
Speaker: Monika Fields, RN
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 | Location: Hall B | Lunch Provided
CS-13: Top Ten Clinical Findings in GI
Time: 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM | Location: Room 407 | 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.
CS-14: Bridging the Gap: Fostering Collaboration Between GI Specialists and Value Analysis Professionals to Enhance Endoscope & Medical Device Safety
Time: 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM | Location: Ballroom B | Concurrent Session | Type: Other
Speakers: J. Hudson Garrett Jr., Ph.D. MSN MPH MBA AE-MBA FNP-BC IP-BC PLNC VA-BC BC-MSLcert™ CAIP HACP HACP-IC MSL-BC CPHRM CHIPP-B CIC LTC-CIP CPPS CPTM CPHQ CVAHPTM ICE-CCP CMRP CPXP CAE CDIPC FACDONA eFACHDM FAOM FAAPM FRSPH FNAP FACHE FSHEA FIDSA FAHVAP, Karen Niven, MS RN BSN CVAHP,FACHDM FNAP FAHVAP, Anne Marie Orlando, MBA BS RN RCIS CVAHP FACHDM PNAP FAHVAP, and Robin Lane, MBA BSN RN CVAHP PNAP FAHVAP
Ensuring the safety and efficacy of endoscopic procedures requires a holistic, multidisciplinary approach. In this session, gastroenterology nurses and professionals and value analysis professionals will explore how collaborative strategies can drive better product evaluations, streamline evidence-based decision-making, and mitigate safety risks associated with endoscopic equipment. Attendees will gain insights into establishing meaningful partnerships that align clinical expertise with cost-effectiveness and regulatory compliance. By learning to integrate the perspectives of both clinical teams and value analysis experts, participants will leave better equipped to safeguard patient outcomes and foster a culture of continuous quality improvement.
CS-15: Esophageal Manometry Basics and Beyond
Time: 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM | Location: Room 406 | Concurrent Session | Type: Procedure Skills
Speaker: Kimberly Venturella, BSN RN DIPL CGRN
Presenting With Purpose: Tips on Speaking Effectively
Time: 2:30 PM - 3:15 PM | Location: Room 301-305 | 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.
CS-16: SGNA Practice Guideline Primer
Time: 3:15 PM - 4:00 PM | Location: Room 301-305 | 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).
CS-17: Culture of Safety
Time: 4:15 PM - 5:15 PM | Location: Ballroom B | Concurrent Session | Type: Infection Prevention
Speaker: Beth Hogan, MSN RN CGRN CNOR CASC CNAMB
Culture of Safety has an impact on countless aspects of our organizations. Join us for a discussion on how to assure we are progressing toward high reliability and zero harm. We will discuss best practices and encourage you to share your successes with each other.
Beverage Break
Time: 4:00 PM - 4:15 PM | Location: Ballroom Gallery
CS-18: Empowering Patients Through Education for Pancreatobiliary Cancer Care
Time: 4:15 PM - 5:15 PM | Location: Room 301-305 | 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.
CS-19: The WRITE Project
Time: 4:15 PM - 5:15 PM | Location: Room 406 | Concurrent Session | Type: Other
Speakers: Rhoda Redulla DNP RN NPD-BC FAAN, and Kathy Baker, PhD RN ACNS-BC FAAN
Sharing important clinical and theoretical knowledge is important in advancing the science and art of nursing. Nurses are encouraged to disseminate their work through publication. This session will present various aspects of the writing process. Participants of The WRITE Project will share their experience from identifying a writing topic, manuscript preparation, and submission.
CS-20: Innovating Care: Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in the Ambulatory Setting
Time: 4:15 PM - 5:15 PM | Location: Room 407 | 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.
GS-04: Emerging Topics in Infection Control: Strategies for Future Preparedness and Clinical Continuity
Time: 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM | Location: Ballroom B | 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
This presentation will explore innovative strategies and best practices designed to enhance future preparedness and ensure clinical continuity in the face of infectious threats in the gastroenterology specialty. Participants will gain insights into cutting-edge technologies, novel protocols, and adaptive frameworks that are reshaping infection prevention and control. We will discuss the integration of real-time data analytics, rapid response systems, and interdepartmental collaboration to create a resilient, proactive infection control strategy that protects both patients and staff.
SGNA Celebration (Sponsored by Ruhof)
Time: 7:15 PM - 9:00 PM | Location: Ballroom B
Registration Hours
Time: 7:00 AM - 1:00 PM | Location: East Atrium
Light Breakfast & Coffee
Time: 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM | Location: Ballroom Gallery
CS-21: Medications for the Gut and Beyond: Innovations in Gastroenterology Pharmacology
Time: 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM | Location: Room 407 | 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.
CS-22: Poster Oral Presentations
Time: 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM | Location: Room 301-305 | Concurrent Session | Type: Other
Speakers: Coming Soon
Oral presentations from the top-scoring poster submissions.
CS-23: Abdominal Pressure, Ergonomics and Nurse and Patient Safety in the Endoscopy Suite
Time: 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM | Location: Ballroom B | Concurrent Session | Track: Procedure Skills
Speaker: Jill Bendiske-Minor, RN BSN and Calie Hanuman, RN BSN PHN CGRN
Colonoscopy poses a risk to both the patient and the staff. The risk to the patient is related to both looping and manual pressure used to assist the scope to pass. Staff is related to the ergonomic risk associated with applying manual pressure. How can we keep both the patient and staff safe during colonoscopy?
CS-24: AI in Gastroenterology Nursing: Connecting Practice and Innovation
Time: 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM | Location: Room 406 | Concurrent Session | Type: Operational Management
Speaker: Heather Carter-Templeton, PhD RN NI-BC FAAN
We will explore the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in nursing care and nursing research. In addition, we will review emerging AI tools used in gastroenterology nursing, highlighting their implications on clinical efficiency and outcomes. Furthermore, we will discuss the necessary preparation for nurses to effectively use and work with AI technologies.
Coffee Break
Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM | Location: Ballroom Gallery
CS-25: Updates in Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Time: 9:15 AM - 10:15 AM | Location: Room 407 | Concurrent Session | Type: Disease
Speaker: Luke Hillman, MD
This session explores eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), an increasingly common chronic -immune-mediated condition of the esophagus. We will review the clinical presentation of the disease, and discuss both established and emerging medical therapies for this condition. The presentation will also cover endoscopic diagnosis and management of EoE including endoscopic techniques for managing strictures common in EoE.
CS-26: Enhancing Nursing Staff Retention Through Trauma-Informed Care
Time: 9:15 AM - 10:15 AM | Location: Room 301-305 | 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.
CS-27: Cannabis and Anesthesia
Time: 9:15 AM - 10:15 AM | Location: Room 406 | Concurrent Session | Type: Other
Speakers: Leah M. Gordon, DNP APRN CRNA
This presentation will talk about the use of Cannabis and its impacts on the patient throughout the perioperative footprint.
CS-28: Improving HLD Practices in Decentralized Ambulatory Centers
Time: 9:15 AM - 10:15 AM | Location: Ballroom B | Concurrent Session | Type: Operational Management
Speaker: Jeanne Greer, BSN RN CGRN
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.
CS-29: Screening Modalities in Pancreatic Cancer
Time: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM | Location: Ballroom B | 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.
CS-30: Enhancing Patient Safety with an Endoscopy-Specific Checklist
Time: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM | Location: Room 301-305 | 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.
CS-31: A Professional Perspective on Foreign Body Predicaments
Time: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM | Location: Room 407 | Concurrent Session | Type: Procedure Skills
Speaker: Stephanie L. Rollo, BSN RN CGRN
The presentation focuses on foreign bodies in the GI tract, covering causes, symptoms, assessments, treatments, risks, and the role of the endoscopy nurse in maintaining professionalism and sensitivity to the patient's situation. Mindful communication is highlighted to reduce anxieties and improve patient outcomes, safety, and satisfaction.
Lunch on Own
Time: 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
CS-32: Forging a Robust Endoscope Reprocessing Program
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM | Location: Room 406 | 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.
CS-33: Advancements in Gastroparesis Treatment: Exploring GPOEM and the Role of Advanced Endoscopy
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM | Location: Room 407 | Concurrent Session | Type: Disease
Speaker: Sarah Stainko, MSN FNP-C
Gastroparesis is a chronic and frequently debilitating disease process seen in the gastroenterology clinic setting. Gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy, or GPOEM, is an advanced endoscopy treatment option for refractory gastroparesis when medication and dietary management prove unsuccessful.
Beverage Break
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM | Location: Ballroom Gallery
SGNA Business Meeting & Closing Session: GS-05: An Update on Barrett’s Esophagus in 2025: From Detection to Eradication
Time: 2:15 PM - 4:00 PM | Location: Ballroom A | General Session | Type: Disease
Speaker: Raman Muthusamy, MD
This lecture will discuss the challenges in identifying patients with Barrett’s esophagus among the general population and risk factors that identify optimal screening candidates. In addition, options regarding screening modalities will be discussed. A description of how a high quality endoscopic Barrett’s esophagus exam should be performed will be provided along with a discussion of risk factors for progression from non-dysplastic Barrett’s to dysplasia or cancer. Finally, we will review the resection and ablation options that comprise endoscopic eradication therapy.