It is my absolute pleasure to welcome you to the 39th Annual Scientific Meeting of the Association for Vascular Access in sunny Kissimmee, Florida! As the chair of the Design Team (D-Team), I am honored to help bring this incredible event to life alongside my outstanding Chair-Elect, Jessica Langille. Jessica has been an integral partner in organizing this year’s conference, ensuring we continue to provide an exceptional experience for all attendees.
The feedback from last year’s conference made it clear that the transition to a threeday format was a success. We’ve taken that momentum and refined the structure even further to optimize learning, engagement, and networking. This year’s conference is designed to be informative, dynamic, and interactive—allowing you to take valuable insights back to your teams and institutions.
The submission process was highly competitive again this year, with over 100 abstracts submitted for review. Each submission was blinded and carefully evaluated by three members of the D-Team. We then dedicated hours of discussion to curate a balanced, high-quality conference schedule. Our goal has been to ensure a broad spectrum of relevant topics, engaging workshops, and opportunities for professional growth.
One key focus this year is supporting attendees in gaining confidence to drive meaningful change within their organizations. We understand that implementing new practices can be daunting, and our programming will include practical strategies to help you navigate challenges in your own health systems.
Additionally, AVASM25 will highlight:
• Hands-on Training: We are offering a variety of interactive, skills-based sessions to enhance practical knowledge and build confidence in key procedures. Pre-selection is required for these limited-space sessions.
• Pediatric Vascular Access: A dedicated emphasis on pediatric patient care, ensuring we bring the highest quality content to those working in this crucial specialty.
• Future Developments in Vascular Access: A look ahead at emerging technologies and advancements that will shape our field.
• Bridging Infection Prevention and Vascular Access: Exploring the critical intersections between vascular access practices and infection control to improve patient safety.
• Mobile Vascular Access: Recognizing the expanding role of vascular access in mobile and community-based healthcare settings.
This year’s conference is set in the stunning Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center, where you’ll have everything you need within reach—exceptional dining, relaxation at the on-site spa, and a world-class fitness center. If you find yourself with extra time, take advantage of nearby attractions, including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and the beautiful Florida beaches. But trust me—while the theme parks may be tempting, nothing will be more exciting, engaging, and rewarding than the knowledge, connections, and experiences waiting for you here at AVASM25! You won’t want to miss a moment of what we have planned.
I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each attendee for your dedication to this profession and your unwavering commitment to improving patient outcomes. A special thank you goes to the AVASM25 D-Team, AVA staff, and our industry partners. Your contributions—both visible and behindthe-scenes—make this event possible.
Serving as this year’s D-Team Chair is a privilege, and I am committed to ensuring you have an outstanding conference experience. Please don’t hesitate to connect with me or any D-Team member throughout the event. We will be wearing our D-Team ribbons and jackets, and we are here to support you in making the most of your time at AVASM25.
Let’s make this conference unforgettable! I look forward to seeing you all in Kissimmee, ready to learn, collaborate, and push the boundaries of what’s possible in vascular access.
See you soon!
Michael Stern, MD
D-Team Chair, AVA Scientific Meeting 2025
Welcome to Kissimmee!
We are thrilled to announce that the 2025 Conference will be hosted at the luxurious Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center, 6000 W Osceola Pkwy, Kissimmee, FL 34746
Transportation to the Resort FROM THE AIRPORT:
The Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center is conveniently located near Orlando International Airport (MCO). Transportation options include:
• Super Shuttle: $25 USD (one-way, upon request)
• Rideshare Services: Uber and Lyft are available from Orlando International Airport.
• Rental Cars: Available at the airport for added flexibility.
• Taxi Services: Traditional taxi services are also available.
We look forward to seeing you at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center for the 2025 Conference!
Getting Around
• Public Transportation: Kissimmee has a range of public transportation options, including buses operated by Lynx, which serves the greater Orlando area. You can purchase a pass or use contactless payment methods. Lynx Bus Service
• Ridesharing: Popular rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate throughout Kissimmee and the surrounding areas, offering convenient and flexible transportation options.
• Car Rentals: If you prefer driving, numerous car rental agencies are available near the Orlando International Airport (MCO) and throughout Kissimmee.
Things To Do
• Explore Old Town Kissimmee: Step back in time and stroll through Old Town, a nostalgic shopping district with charming boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment.
• Visit Walt Disney World Resort: Just a short drive from Kissimmee, immerse yourself in the magic of Disney with its theme parks, including Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. See page 19 for exclusive ticket discounts. Walt Disney World
• Take a Swamp Tour: Experience the unique Florida Everglades with a guided swamp tour, where you can spot wildlife, including alligators, in their natural habitat.
• Shop at Disney Springs: For a variety of shops, dining, and entertainment, visit Disney Springs, a popular destination for visitors to the Orlando area. Disney Springs
• Explore Gatorland: Known as the “Alligator Capital of the World,” Gatorland offers a unique experience where you can see thousands of alligators and crocodiles. Gatorland
• Indulge in the Culinary Scene: Kissimmee and the surrounding Orlando area offer a wide range of dining options, from casual eateries to gourmet restaurants, with something to satisfy every palate.ene, featuring everything from traditional American fare to international cuisine and innovative food trucks.
More Helpful Links
• Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center
• Kissimmee Visitor Information: Visit Kissimmee
• Things to Do in Kissimmee
Enjoy your time in Florida and have a productive and successful conference in Kissimmee for 2025!
Know Before You Go
1.LOCATION
All sessions are happening at the Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center. Easy to find, hard to miss.
2.WHAT TO PACK
• Bring a refillable water bottle – plenty of filling stations are around so you’ll stay hydrated.
• Pack a sweater or light jacket – the meeting rooms can go from tropical to arctic real quick.
3.REGISTRATION & BADGES
Beat the rush and grab your badge early! You’ll find the registration desk on the Exhibit Hall level, Registration E.
Registration hours:
• Thursday: 7:00am – 7:00pm
• Friday: 7:00am – 7:00pm
• Saturday: 7:00am – 5:30pm
• Sunday: 7:00am – 1:00pm
4.EXHIBIT HALL
Don’t miss the action in the Exhibit Hall! Plan your time so you can see everyone (and snag the snacks).
Location: Exhibit Hall level, Hall EF
Hours:
• Friday: 5:15 – 7:45pm (light appetizers served)
• Saturday: 10:45am – 2:00pm (lunch served)
• Sunday: 10:15am – 12:30pm (brunch served)
Full exhibitor list: Exhibitors
5.ON-DEMAND SESSIONS & CES
Can’t make it to every session? No worries. As an in-person attendee, you get access to ondemand recordings, plus the chance to earn up to 16 additional CEs!
Recordings will be available starting October 13th. Watch them by December 12, 2025 to collect those credits.
6.CONTINUING EDUCATION (CE) CREDITS
Here’s what counts for CE credits:
• Keynote Presentation
• General Sessions
• Breakouts
Pre-Meeting Workshops
• Any sessions marked for CE
To get your CE certificate:
• Fill out the session evaluations AND the overall meeting evaluation.
• Deadline: December 12, 2025 (after that, certificates won’t be available).
Erin is a Master’s-prepared nurse with over 15 years of experience across emergency, NICU, and pediatric settings. She currently serves as the sole vascular access specialist at Arkansas Children’s Northwest, where she established the dedicated vascular access department and led the implementation of pediatric PICC insertions. She also chairs the hospital’s PIVIE and CLABSI Hospital-Acquired Conditions teams and contributes to system-wide initiatives focused on improving outcomes, reducing harm, and enhancing the patient and family experience. She is passionate about advancing evidence-based vascular access practices and promoting vessel preservation while providing high-quality, safe, and compassionate care for every patient.
Trisha M. Cakanic
MSN, BSN, RN-BC, CRNI®, OCN®, VA-BCTM
Oncology Registered Nurse, Advocate Health Care, Wisconsin
Trisha has been in the field of nursing for 22 years and is triple-certified in oncology, infusion therapy, and vascular access. She obtained her Master of Science in Nurse Education in 2020 and since then has held multiple leadership roles within the Infusion Nurses Society and Oncology Nurses Society. Most recently, she has served the last 6 years on the Board of Directors for the Infusion Nursing Certification Corporation, where she worked as an item writer, mentor for the Initial Chemotherapy Biotherapy course, and manuscript reviewer for the Journal of Infusion Nursing. She currently leads a shared committee of Infusion, Nurse Practice, LPN/ MA, and Team committees within Advocate Health Cancer Care in Wisconsin. Trisha’s passion is professional certification, nursing empowerment, and positive patient outcomes, and she believes that certification builds the foundation for continuing education and professional growth.
Dustin Mason
EMT, VA-BCTM
Vascular Access Technician, University of Florida-Jacksonville
In October of 2023, Dustin’s father was hospitalized and he received norepinephrine via a midline catheter and unfortunately, severe harm occurred as a result. This has become his origin story within the realm of vascular access and infusion therapy. His goal is simple yet complex— he wants to spread the word of the INS Standards so that no one else’s son or family member is put through the same traumatic experience he and his father endured that night in October. While Dustin is relatively “new” to the realm of vascular access and infusion therapy, his goals and aspirations know no limits. He is currently an Emergency Medical Technician and certified in vascular access and seen as the “go-to” resource for vascular access at his facility. He is striving to turn his own tragic story into his new life’s mission of researching and implementing the safest way vascular access can be given to the patients he sees every single day.
Pre-Meeting Hands-On Workshops
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE WORKSHOPS
Thursday, September 18
8:00am – 12:00pm
HOT TOPICS OF NEONATAL AND PEDIATRIC VASCULAR ACCESS (BEGINNER SESSION)
10:30am – 3:00pm or 3:30pm – 8:00pm Supported by Teleflex
VASCULAR ACCESS PROCEDURE TRAINING LAB
1:30pm – 5:30pm
ELEVATING YOUR PEDIATRIC NEONATAL VASCULAR ACCESS PRACTICE (ADVANCED SESSION)
3:30pm – 7:30pm
ADVANCE YOUR PRACTICE - CVC HANDS-ON WORKSHOP
Pediatric/Neonatal Reception 5:30pm – 7:30pm
This reception is free to those that attended one of the pediatric pre-meeting workshops, or tickets can be purchased at registration.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
Keynote Presentation
Guardians of the Vascular Access Galaxy: Past, Present, and Future
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 8:30AM ET
This keynote session, Guardians of the Vascular Access Galaxy: Past, Present, and Future, will remind vascular access specialists of their enduring influence as stewards of patient care. Through the personal journey of a parent and sibling of a central-line-dependent child, the speakers will show how even the smallest clinical decisions can change a patient’s life trajectory. By exploring the essential qualities of a true “Guardian,” attendees will learn how to bring timely expertise and foresight to every interaction. Using the GUARDIANS framework, this session provides practical strategies for making decisions that meet patients’ immediate needs while laying a foundation for meaningful futures. Discover how the choices you make today can truly matter— both now and for decades to come.
Leave inspired, knowing you could be the hero and guardian between life and death.
Beth Gore, PhD
Friday, September 19
GENERAL SESSIONS
When Infusions Go Wrong: The Realities and Consequences of IV Injuries
Mary Ann Zock, MSN, RN, CRNI, VA-BCTM
Vascular Access Nurse
University of Vermont Medical Center
Post Mills, Vermont
Evan Mahakian, MHA, RN, CPHRM
Risk Manager / Insurance Adjuster
The University of Vermont Health Network
Richmond, Vermont
Vascular access injuries can result in costly legal battles for healthcare organizations. Although these injuries are not entirely preventable, maintaining highly accurate, complete, and consistent documentation is essential to safeguard both individual healthcare providers and the organization. The lifecycle of a vascular access device should be clearly documented in the electronic record. Organizations that apply evidence-based management and maintain accurate, consistent documentation can establish a strong defense in the event of litigation following an injury. If a nurse is deemed negligent in their care, leading to a negative outcome for a patient due to a vascular access injury, it could jeopardize their career. Explore the journey of one hospital that has implemented initiatives to reduce these injuries after experiencing a pediatric litigation case. Additionally, gain insights on the best practices to protect yourself and the healthcare facility where you work.
Introducing
Implementation Guidance for Preventing Vascular Access Device-Related Bloodstream Infections
Rebecca Crapanzano-Sigafoos, DrPH, CIC, FAPIC
Executive Director, Center for Resource, Practice, and Innovation Association for Professionals in Infection Prevention and Epidemiology Tacoma, Washington
Frankie Catalfumo, MPH, CIC, CRCST
Director, Practice Guidance and Health Equity Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) Arlington, Virginia
This session will walk attendees through the process of creating a multi-society endorsed document that expands previous guidance for preventing central line associated bloodstream infections across all vascular-access device types. Presenters will share the details of document development and provide a comprehensive review of and rationale for the new guidance elements.
Breakout Sessions
1:45 – 5:15 PM
You will find sessions to cover many topics: Research, Legal, Technique, Peds/Neo, PIV, etc. Choose from more than 20 sessions! CLICK HERE TO
Exhibit Hall Opening Reception
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2025 | 5:15 PM - 7:45 PM ET
LOCATION: EXHIBIT HALL EF
We invite you to join us for some fun in the exhibition hall! Indulge in delicious appetizers and refreshing drinks as you explore the exhibits. This is a perfect opportunity to network with fellow colleagues, engage with our exhibitors, and participate in the exciting Scan & Win game. Don’t miss out on the chance to connect, learn, and have a great time!
Vascular access isn’t a black and white issue. It’s a human one.
Peripheral intravenous catheter insertion is the most common invasive procedure in healthcare.1 And yet the rate of difficult IV access (DIVA) is 58% higher for black patients compared to white.2 B. Braun’s Peripheral Advantage® Program is designed to help change that — equipping clinicians with the skills, training and data-informed insights needed to dramatically improve outcomes for all patients. It’s time to see patients differently.
Learn more at bbraunusa.com/peripheraladvantage
1. Thompson, J, Steinheiser, M., Hotchkiss, J., Davis, J., DeVries M., Frate, K., Helm, R., Jungkans, C., Kakani, S., Lau, S., Lindell, K., McNiff, K., McQuillan, K., Shannon, DJ, Wuerz, L., Pitts, S. (2024) Standards of Care for Peripheral Intravenous Catheters: Evidence-Based Expert Consensus. JAVA, 29(3). https://doi. org/10.2309/JAVA-D-24-00011
2. Shokoohi H, Loesche MA, Duggan NM, et al. Difficult intravenous access as an independent predictor of delayed care and prolonged length of stay in the emergency department. J Am Coll Emerg Physicians Open. 2020 Aug 19;1(6):1660-1668. doi: 10.1002/emp2.12222. PMID:33392574; PMCID: PMC7771794. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7771794/
Saturday, Sept 20
GENERAL SESSIONS
Mission Impossible: The Catheter That Never Dies
Andrew
C. Bulmer, PhD
Professor Griffith University
Southport, Queensland, Australia
The content will focus on our understanding the potential causes of peripheral intravenous catheter failure, based on an analysis of the latest data generated within the AVATAR group. These factors include saline flushing speed, catheter haemocompatibility and motion of catheters within veins. The presentation will also discuss the variability in different individuals responses to catheterisation, proposing risk factors for poorer vascular access outcomes. This should help to identify patients at greatest risk of failure, in addition to proposing certain catheter materials/designs that help to reduce injury, and practices that can reduce irriation to the vein and subsequent failure.
Comparative Analysis of Catheter-to-Vein Ratio
Definitions, Calculations, and Methodology: Diameter-Based vs. Area-Based Approaches
This session provides a critical analysis of the Catheter-to-Vein Ratio (CVR), dissecting the distinct definitions, calculations, and methodologies proposed by Sharp et al. (2015) and Spencer & Mahoney (2017). Participants will engage in an in-depth exploration of the fundamental differences between diameter-based and area-based CVR approaches, addressing the misconception that a 45% CVR threshold applies equally to both diameter-based and area-based calculations.
Breakout Sessions
2:15 – 3:15 AND 4:45 – 5:45PM
You will find sessions to cover many topics: Research, Legal, Technique, Peds/Neo, PIV, etc.
Choose your sessions!
CLICK
EXTENDED SESSION (LIMITED SEATING) 2:15 - 4:30PM
Enhancing Mobile Vascular Access Team Functionality Workshop
Jessica L. Langille, MSN, RN, VA-BCTM
Assistant Director of Nursing
Chesapeake Mobile Healthcare/Statpoint Medical North Springfield, Virginia
This interactive workshop is designed for healthcare professionals involved in mobile vascular access services who want to optimize their team’s performance by collaborating with others in their field through structured group discussions. Participants will gain insights into effective leadership styles, onboarding, training and strategies to improve workflow efficiency and data collection. The session will cover techniques for effective communication, mobile team coordination, equipment management, and data-driven approaches to decision-making.
Scientific Poster Presentations
3:30 – 4:30PM
Come check out the latest research, innovations and what your colleagues are implementing in their facilities!
20 posters being presented! What are you going to watch live and what will you watch on-demand?
CHOOSE YOUR CUSTOM T-SHIRT!
Stop by the AVA booth to make a $45 donation to the AVA Foundation. Then receive a ticket to redeem for the t-shirt of your choice. You’llfind the T-Shirt Booth right nextto the AVA Booth!
Sunday, Sept 21
Breakout Sessions
Breakout are early on Sunday! Choose your sessions!
Don’t miss some of your favorite speakers and discussions.
GENERAL SESSIONS
7:30AM – 10:15AM
New Perspectives In Vascular Access Life Plan From Bench To Bedside
Medical Director Vascular Access Services, Associate Professor of Medicine/Nephrology University of Michigan Ann Arbor, Michigan
This session will explore the latest advancements in dialysis vascular access, emphasizing a patientcentered “life plan” approach. Attendees will gain insights into the KDOQI guidelines, including best practices for access selection, timing, and preservation strategies tailored to individual patient profiles. New technologies and innovations for personalizing vascular access care will be discussed, with a focus on improving patient outcomes and quality of life. Join us to learn how to apply these evidence-based strategies in clinical practice.
Extra! Extra! Learn all about it: Treatment of Peripheral IV Extravasations
Hector Murillo, RN, BSN, VA-BCTM, CPN
Vascular Access RN
Childrens’ Health System of Texas Rockwall, Texas
As vascular access clinicians, not only are we called upon to place PIVCs, in some care settings we are also sometimes called upon to assist in the management of complications that arise from infusions via those PIVCs. One of those complications includes infiltrations, and when the infiltrate comes as a result of a vesicant, it then becomes an extravasation. The risk of these extravasations includes the loss of limb and/or function. Therefore, prompt recognition and treatment become a priority. This session will review the specific treatment of extravasations (at our pediatric hospital) in which Hyaluronidase or Phentolamine is the treatment of choice. It will include key factors such as recognizing clinically significant changes, escalation in care, documentation, and how to treat these specific extravasations.
Empowering Pediatric Cancer Patients Through Sports: A Single Institution Case Study
Reid D. Jockisch, BS
Innovation Engineer
OSF HealthCare Peoria, Illinois
Nicholas Kemp, MS, Cancer Exercise Specialist
Exercise Physiologist
Heller Center for Kids with Cancer OSF HealthCare Children’s Hospital of Illinois Washington, Illinois
This presentation explores safety considerations for pediatric oncology patients wishing to participate in sports, with a focus on those with single or double lumen implanted ports. Attendees will gain insights from a case study at the Jim and Trudy Maloof St. Jude Midwest Affiliate Clinic within St. Francis Medical Center on the development and testing of a protective athletic guard that enabled an oncology patient with an implanted venous access port to have continued participation in athletic extra-curriculars at a competitive level. The session emphasizes the collaborative work of the OSF Innovation Engineering Department and Health Fitness and Wellness Department in engineering a solution to protect the patient’s port, allowing for safe physical activity. Attendees will learn strategies for promoting physical and emotional resilience of pediatric patients, empowering them to safely pursue athletic activities.
Pediatric / Neonatal Focused General Sessions and Breakout Sessions
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19
PEDS GENERAL SESSION
The Importance of Vessel Preservation for the Pediatric Patient
Jamie L. Webb, MSN, RN, VA-BCTM
Vascular Access Team RN and Education Leader, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and Medical Center Liberty Township, Ohio
Barbara Rhymer, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC,CPN
Clinical Manager Vascular Access, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center Cincinnati, Ohio
One of the most challenging aspects of pediatric healthcare is achieving and maintaining adequate vascular access. The pediatric patient can be quite challenging, with smaller, limited viable vessels. Identifying the appropriate line from the start is a top priority for the pediatric patient. Vessel preservation and access strategies, while minimizing complications are a large part of the vascular access role. Using a multidisciplinary approach the team should work together to promote vessel preservation and recognize the future access needs of the pediatric patient.
PEDS BREAKOUT
Optimizing Pediatric Vascular Access: An Evaluation of Ultrasound-Guided Peripheral Venous Catheter
Insertion Orientation
Kacey M. Wiseman, MSN, RN, CPN, VA-BCTM, NE-BC
Luis Cipriano, BSN, RN, VA-BCTM
Establishing a cohesive and succinct orientation is essential to support first stick success rates, reduce complications, and streamline workflow. This session will focus on a structured orientation process for ultrasound guided (USG) peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC) insertion designed for new registered nurses on a pediatric vascular access team. We will explore the essential components of orientation, including practical training modules, hands-on simulations, and mentorship opportunities that enhance skill acquisition and confidence. Attendees will gain insights into evidence-based practices that underpin successful ultrasound techniques, along with strategies for overcoming common challenges encountered in pediatric patients. A robust orientation process has streamlined vascular access procedures, improved post-orientation success rates, reduced complications, and enhanced the quality of care provided to our patients. Key metrics explored include first-attempt success rate, total procedure time, and incidence of complications.
PEDS BREAKOUT
Think Kink, Anticipate Precipitate, If Not, Maybe a Clot? Uncovering the true cause of your PICC occlusion
Tami Cason, RN, ALS, C-NPT
Melissa Stebel, MSN, CNS, VA-BCTM, CPEN
In this session, we dive into an innovative project that’s transforming how nurses treat PICC line occlusions in vulnerable neonatal and pediatric patients. By introducing an evidence-based algorithm, this initiative aims to increase nursing knowledge and accuracy of treatments based on the specific cause of the occlusion-because the right diagnosis is the key to saving these precious lines. After completing a targeted education program, nurses’ confidence and knowledge skyrocketed, this resulted in fewer lost lines, fewer treatment interruptions, and improved outcomes. Join us as we explore our journey and share our occlusion algorithm in hopes of improving the care of this unique patient population.
PEDINEOSIG TENTH ANNUAL GRAND ROUNDS
Moderator:
Elizabeth Sharpe, DNP, APRN, NNP-BC, VA-BC™, FAANP, FAAN
Case Presenters:
Casey J. Schuller, RN, BSN, VA-BC™
Kate D’Ambrosio, DNP, APRN, ACCNS-P, CCRN
Kylie J. Virgin, RN, BSN, VA-BC™
Lea Bartel, BSN, RN , VA-BC™
Matthew D. Ostroff, MSN, VA-BC™
Pediatric / Neonatal Focused General Sessions and Breakout Sessions
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20
PEDS BREAKOUT
Databases, Competencies and Spreadsheets,
Oh My! Ways to Follow Trends for Making Adjustments for Improvement
Kathy L. Grieser, BSN, RN, VA-BCTM
The numbers of peripheral IVs utilized every year is shared frequently in presentations throughout the world. It is often expressed that the first-time success rate is much lower in pediatrics. While working on a study for one particular vascular visualization device, we developed a comprehensive database to track all IV insertions in our institution. With that database, I am able to use this information to help identify team members that may be struggling with their skills, identify which brand of IV catheters are lasting longer according to site, technique used, looking at dwell times and reasons for removal. We are able to identify which visualization devices seem to be more useful according to patient demographics which is helpful for the novice nurses that may need to start PIVs in various departments throughout the medical center and outpatient areas. Measuring outcomes helps to identify areas that need improvement as well as identify success. To continue to build a vascular access team, data drives change to improve patient care. Improving patient care in the pediatric population can have long-term effects on these patients throughout their life.
PEDS BREAKOUT
PART 1: Less Pain with Pokes: How a Vascular Access Team and a Child Life Specialist are Collaboratively Transforming Pediatric Procedures
Amanda Escobedo, MS, CCLS:
Shaila Green, RN, BSN, VA-BCTM:
This presentation highlights the integral role of Certified Child Life Specialists (CCLS) within a Vascular Access Team (VAT) to enhance pediatric care during vascular access procedures. These two professions partner together to assess patients to develop tailored care plans that address both medical and coping needs. Utilizing their expertise in child development and psychosocial support, CCLSs reduce patient anxiety through individualized preparation, teaching of coping strategies, and implementing coping plans during procedures, leading to improved patient outcomes and satisfaction. Child life focused metrics collected since August 2024 highlight improvements in patient coping during vascular access procedures, demonstrating the value of this partnership. Moving forward, the VAT aims to explore strategies to reduce sedation, further emphasizing the importance of the unique collaboration to provide holistic, compassionate care for pediatric patients.
PEDS BREAKOUT
PART 2: Maintaining a Lifeline for a Little Boy with a Complex Cardiac Defect
Kathy L. Grieser, BSN, RN, VA-BCTM
Patients born with congenital heart defects (CHD) are often times dependent on vascular access for life sustaining intravenous medications. Due to their complex anatomy and vascular structure as well as the additional challenges with pediatric patients in general, vascular access can be especially difficult to establish and maintain in pediatric CHD patients. This unusual case study focuses on these challenges in an eight-year-old male born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS). This patient experienced numerous cardiac surgeries, cardiac catheterizations and interventions throughout his life and required several medications in an attempt to bridge him to a heart transplant. He required numerous vascular access devices throughout an eight-year period, much of which was living at home with long-term vascular access and infusions. Through exhaustive collaboration, careful planning and sometimes non-traditional approaches and meticulous care from a multidisciplinary care team, this patient maintained his PICC lines without any bloodstream infections or serious events for several years.
Pediatric / Neonatal Focused General Sessions and Breakout Sessions
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21
PEDS
COFFEE TALK: Neonatal and Pediatric Trends in Vascular Access
Moderator:
Kacey M. Wiseman, MSN, RN, CPN, VA-BCTM, NE-BC
Are you interested in connecting with the Executive Leadership Council (ELC) for PediNeoSIG? Are you eager to network with fellow clinicians and discuss best practices in neonatal and pediatric vascular access? Or have you encountered a challenging clinical scenario and want to evaluate it with colleagues? This session will allow for an interactive opportunity to collaborate with the board and network with fellow neonatal and pediatric specialists. Join us for your morning coffee and an hour of engaging discussion about current trends in vascular access, impacting outpatients, big and small. (Prior to the conference, questions/topics can be submitted electronically).
PEDS BREAKOUT
A Deep Dive into the Anatomy and Physiology of the Arterial System as a Means to Understand Arterial Catheter Associated Injuries.
Mark M. Weber, MSN, RN, CRNP-AC, FCCM
Arterial catheters are commonplace within the world of critical care. As an increasing number of vascular access nurses are placing arterial catheters it is imperative that they can identify and manage the complications that can occur from these vascular access devices. Through this session we will take a deep dive into the anatomy and physiology of the arterial system. These details will be focused down to a cellular level. This information will provide a foundation as we discuss the data surrounding arterial catheter failure. Past and current research related to arterial catheter harm will be reviewed. An increased knowledge of potential complications will allow vascular access nurses to address injuries earlier preventing advanced harm to their patients.
PEDS BREAKOUT
Global CVAD Practices in Pediatric Cancer Care: Identifying Disparities, Celebrating Similarities, and Shaping
Future Recommendations
Sabrina de Souza,
RN, PhD
Mari Takashima, RN, PhD
This presentation will explore current Central Vascular Access Device (CVAD) practices in pediatric cancer care across 42 countries, highlighting critical findings from an international cross-sectional survey. Drawing from responses of over 300 healthcare professionals, we’ll examine variations in device selection, insertion techniques, and management practices between high-income and otherincome countries. The session will address how resource availability influences clinical decisionmaking and impacts patient outcomes. We’ll conclude with evidence-based recommendations for improving global CVAD practices while considering local contexts and resource constraints.
PEDS GENERAL SESSION
Guidelines, Algorithms and Other Tools
Used to Improve Vascular Access Care Delivery in Children –A Scoping Review
Mary Beth H. Davis, PhD
Postdoctoral Scholar
University of Iowa College of Nursing Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Alina G. Burek, MD
Pediatric Hospitalist
Medical College of Wisconsin Milwaukee, Wisconsin
The vascular access care process for pediatric and neonatal children is complex and includes multiple steps along the care process - assessment, selection, placement, maintenance, and removal of vascular access devices. The results from this scoping review will help the audience understand what vascular access guides, algorithms and tools have been published for each of the steps along the care process, and what is known about their effectiveness in improving vascular access outcomes in children. The literature was systematically identified, reviewed, and critiqued using the PRISMAScR checklist and AGREE II instrument for quality assessment. To capture contemporary practices, studies published within the past 10 years were included. Name of guide/algorithm, study details and outcome data (if available) were collected. The information will be organized into each of the 5 components of the process (assessment, selection, placement, maintenance, and removal) to facilitate incorporation into clinical practice. When appropriate, clinical outcome data will be reviewed. Strengths and weaknesses of each guide/algorithm will be discussed.
Exhibitor Events
EXHIBITOR SYMPOSIA ON FRIDAY 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM ET
LIMITED SEATING / LUNCH SERVED
Charting a Course Together: Using Data to Prepare for Hospital-Onset Bacteremia and Fungemia (HOB)
Luz Caicedo, MPH, CPH, CIC, CRCST, VA-BCTM
Infection Prevention Manager
Advent Health Celebration Kissimmee, Florida
Sarah S. Capalla, MSN, RN, CCRN-K, CNRN, VA-BCTM
Director
Loma Linda University Medical Center Highland, California
Amy Bardin-Spencer, EdD, RRT, VA-BCTM
Vice President Teleflex Phoenix, Arizona
Sponsored by:
From CLABSI to HOB: Redefining Infection Prevention Across All Catheters
Kathleen M. McMullen, MPH, CIC, FAPIC, FSHEA
Executive Director, Infection Prevention and HLD/Sterilization
Mercy
Sponsored by:
Exhibitor Events
EXHIBITOR SYMPOSIA ON SATURDAY 7:00 AM – 8:30 AM ET
Beyond CLABSI: Advancing to CABSI Prevention with PIVs and Antimicrobial Innovation
Tara White, MSN, RN CIC CNL
Global Market Development Manager
Solventum
DJ Shannon, MPH, CIC, VA-BCTM, FAPIC
Infection Preventionist
Max Holder, MSN, RN, CRNI, NE-BC, VA-BCTM
Nurse Manager
Baylor Scott and White Health (BSWH) University Medical Center
Andrew Barton
Sponsored by:
Nurse Consultant at Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust National Infusion and Vascular Access Society Chair IVAS Lead Nurse - FHFT Product Selection Group Chair, United Kingdom
Should needleless connectors be included in a CRBSI prevention bundle?
Marcia A. Ryder, PhD MS RN FNAP
Research Scientist
Ryder Science Brentwood, Tennessee
Sponsored by:
VASCULAR ACCESS TALKS
Grab your lunch and join us in the Exhibitor Theater in the back of the Exhibit Hall to hear from industry experts! Friday starting at 6:00 PM, Saturday starting at 11 AM, and Sunday at 10:40AM.
Check the schedule online or in the app for topics and speakers.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE FULL SCHEDULE
Magical Disney World Discounts Just for You!
Get ready to add a little magic to your AVA 2025 experience! We’re excited to offer you exclusive discounted tickets to the one and only Walt Disney World® Resort!
Whether you’re planning a full day of fun, or just want a few hours of enchantment after sessions, there’s a ticket for every type of Disney day.
Your Delegate Perks Include:
• Specially priced theme park tickets
• Access to all four magical parks
• Afternoon & evening ticket options—perfect for your conference schedule!
