Key Sessions and Insights
7:30 am - 5:30 pm
Registration Open
9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Workshop (separate fee required)
This presentation is geared to NPs who have a vision of creating their own successful business. It reviews the various options available, explains the kinds of entities required, and addresses the pitfalls that might pose a challenge.
Melanie Balestra
JD, PNP, MN, BSN
Nick Webb
JD, DNP, RN
12:15 pm - 1:30 pm
*Lunch Symposium
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Poster Session and Expo
Jessica Peckham
DNP, RN, FNP-C, PHN
Jennifer Muniz
DNP, FNP-BC, APRN
Adekemi Adedipe
DNP, PMHNP- BC
Pamela Ing
PhD, ICE-CCP
Kevin Letz
DNP, MBA, CNE-Ret., FNP-C, ANP-BC, PCPNP-BC, ENP-C, FAANP
Edwin Tobbee Arceo
APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Beverly Garber
ANP-C, CORLN
2:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Opening General Session
Bernadette Melnyk
PhD, APRN-CNP, EBP-C, FAANP, FNAP, FAAN
3:30 pm - 4:15 pm
Poster Session & Expo
Kathryn Dippel
MSN, AGACNP
Sarah Rochford
Giselle Kaneshige
MS, AGACNP-BC
Christine Picinich
Erica Bristol
DNP, FNP-C
Olivia Kulig-Kort
NP-BC
Sue Kim Saechao
DNP, FNP-BC
Sara Sarhangian
MSN, NP-BC
4:15 pm - 5:30 pm
Education
Shifting residency requirements in California are creating a high demand for NPs, which poses challenges for attracting and retaining staff. This session addresses the efficacy of using an advanced practice float team and fellowship program to reduce vacant shifts, improve provider experience, and support safe care.
Christi DeLemos
ACNP-BC
Lars Gjerde
AGACNP-BC, MSN
Danise Seaters
In 2010, the WHO’s Commission on Social Determinants of Health developed a widely used conceptual framework to explain the complex relationships between social factors and health. This presentation outlines the recommended person-centered approach, which suggests that individualized interventions should be adopted by organizations to improve the health status of older adults at national and global levels.
Michelle Panlilio
DNP, GNP-BC
Velma Yep
Rapid-Fire Session: Business/Professional
This presentation provides an overview of a cross-functional team quality-improvement project targeted toward optimizing the pairing of APP students with preceptors.
Elika Rad
MS, RN, ANP-C
This session shares how experience as an NP led to involvement in political activism to effect policy change. The strategy involves identifying a problem, developing a focused plan, engaging stakeholders, working within an organization, creating a compelling platform, and proactively involving legislators.
Rubi Hickson
DNP, ACNP-BC, CCRN, PHN, RN
This presentation highlights the technological tools that can make nursing education more interactive, flexible, and aligned with the realities of modern healthcare. The goal is to create a learning environment that is both supportive and stimulating, leveraging technology to its fullest potential.
Kristina Fortes
DNP, FNP-BC, MSN, RN
Deanna Jung
DNP, FNP-BC, ENP
5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Welcome Reception and Expo
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
*Dinner Symposium
6:00 am - 7:00 am
Open to all conference participants, it’s the perfect way to wake up both body and mind before launching into a day of scintillating information and education. The class is held outdoors and led by a professional instructor, with yoga mats and water provided. Join us to experience energy, clarity, and rejuvenation — and earn early-bird bragging rights, to boot.
7:00 am - 6:00 pm
7:30 am - 8:45 am
*Breakfast Symposium
7:45 am - 8:45 am
Breakfast and Expo
9:00 am - 10:15 am
Malpractice lawsuits can be professionally, emotionally, and financially devastating, but NPs can take steps to reduce their liability. This program provides a review of claim data and case studies from NSO, and CNA’s updated Nurse Practitioner Liability Claim Report, offering immediately implementable practices that can help prevent or defend against malpractice allegations and licensing board complaints, while also enhancing patient safety.
Roxanne Filson
AON Affinity Healthcare Division
Medication abortion is a safe and effective means to end a pregnancy, and NPs are vital in the work to expand access to this service. This presentation explains how to counsel pregnant patients, how to assess eligibility for medication abortion, how to prescribe medications, and how to provide support throughout the process. Information will also be offered to NPs on how to help patients seeking abortion services when their own facilities do not provide them.
Becca Neuwirth
NP
Rapid-Fire Session (Acute Care)
This session educates U.S. healthcare providers about traumatic injuries sustained by those scaling the border wall and how trauma centers are managing this vulnerable group. Content addresses history of the border wall, injury statistics, and how providers will need to address future healthcare concerns of this population, including how to navigate the U.S. healthcare system.
Jordan Noble
DNP, APRN, AGACNP-BC
This presentation focuses on the importance of the early identification of sepsis, implementation of analytic models, timely APP evaluation, and prompt treatment in the inpatient setting. This evidence-based approach delivers timely intervention that reduces morbidity/mortality and addresses racial disparities.
Brandi Chapman
DNP, AGACNP, FNP-BC
Abigail Scheitlin
BA, FNP-BC
Procedural competency requires foundational knowledge and psychomotor skills. Simulation labs have been shown to improve competence in technical procedures, resulting in procedural safety. This presentation includes an overview of promoting safe practice through procedural simulation for new skills or re-skilling, didactic education, mentorship, and journal club development.
Workshop
The Clinical Training Program for Nexplanon is FDA mandated. All providers who would like to offer this method will learn the insertion and removal procedures. The training is facilitated by a Certified Nexplanon Trainer and consists of a 1.0 hour of didactic lecture followed by 1.0 hours of hands-on application learning directed insertion, removal, procurement, billing and possible complications. Kits are supplied to all attendees which includes a demo arm, instruments for removal and placebos for practice of skills
Rebecca Norwick
DNP
10:30 am - 11:45 am
This session reveals crucial HR strategies for California practice owners. Topics include how to elevate hiring practices, ensure complete compliance, and revolutionize employee management to empower practice growth.
Ali Oromchian
JD, LLM
This presentation discusses the history of policies related to NP abortion provision, the current state of training opportunities, and the potential for NPs to expand access to abortion care in underserved areas. Highlights include the critical role of NPs in the abortion-care workforce and the need for consistent training to ensure the integration of this care.
Debbie Barish
Sarah Egan
CNM
Bethany Golden
RN, CNM, PhD
Rapid-Fire Session (Primary Care)
Nurse practitioners are uniquely positioned to impact the short- and long-term consequences caused by the human trafficking public health crisis. This session provides information on identifying victims, addressing the acute and chronic healthcare needs of survivors, and prioritizing strategies to protect community members.
Shelitha Campbell
DNP, MSN, BSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PHN, HMCT
This presentation offers a summary of qualitative and quantitative data collected after completion of nursing-student training on how to recognize and respond to human trafficking. Specifics include case studies in which students applied knowledge from the training when working with patients.
Sarah Koster
FNP, MSN, MPH
This presentation encompasses the link between ADHD symptoms and diabetes, common challenges with diabetes management, and strategies to aid in effective diabetes management.
RaShaye Freeman
DNP, FNP-BC, ADM-BC, CDCES
11:45 am - 12:15 pm
Margarita Huober
AGPCNP, AOCNP
Frances Mercado
FNP-BC
Alea Sohn
Simran Tagore
DNP, MSN, FNP
Laura Adams
RN, BSN
Lunch and Expo
1:45 pm - 3:15 pm
General Session
Kristy Wiese, Legislative Advocate
California Association for Nurse Practitioners
3:30 pm - 4:00 pm
Paul Slobodny
NP, ACHPN
Manpreet Sidhu
DNP, ACNP-BC
Catherine Tanner
DNP, FNPC
Tal Sraboyants
DNP, NP-C, CHFN
Erica Rodriguez
FNP, DNP
This presentation focuses on the ethical and legal implications related to procedural informed consents when APPs are involved in a team approach.
Cynthia Jovanov
DNP, MBA, CNS, FNP-BC, ACNP-BC, CCRN, RNFA
This presentation offers a comprehensive guide to developing and enhancing primary pre-graduate NP training programs. Specifics include practical insights into creating a robust NP training pipeline that addresses workforce needs and prepares future practitioners for success in primary care.
Jacqueline Andrade
FNP
Sandra Sanchez
MEd
Rapid-Fire Session (Assessment/Diagnosis)
This presentation focuses on the case of a patient with Type 1 diabetes who developed treatment-induced neuropathy of diabetes after a precipitant decrease in chronic hyperglycemia over a short period of time. Information on this little-known condition is beneficial to all medical professionals who have patients with diabetes.
Sarah Hendricks
MSN, FNP-BC, BC-ADM
ACNP-BC, MS
NPs can safely perform key preoperative medical risk assessments to provide clearance for surgery. This presentation focuses on the process and evaluation of the preoperative patient for enhanced surgical outcomes.
Patti McCluskey-Andre
AGACNP-BC, FNP-BC
Sleep apnea is prevalent in family practice, but it is often undiagnosed among patients with common comorbid conditions. This session raises awareness to help improve diagnosis rates.
Christine Betzold
NP, MSN, CLC
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Health Justice Group Gatherings
CANP’s Health Justice Committee (HJC) is sponsoring a gathering this evening from 6:30-7:30. All NPs are welcome to join. This gathering provides the opportunity to meet those you identify closely with, for facilitated discussion and networking in a safe environment. Choose from the following groups: NPs who identify as BIPOC (Black, indigenous and people of color) NPs who identify as LGBTQIA+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, intersex, and asexual), NPs who are allies, co-conspirators, and/or interested in health justice.
7:30 am - 4:30 pm
7:30 am - 9:00 am
8:30 am - 9:45 am
10:00 am - 11:15 am
This presentation reviews sections of California law beyond the Business and Professions Code that have an impact on the legal scope of practice for 103 and 104 NPs.
Garrett Chan
PhD, NP, FAEN, FPCN, FNAP, FCNS, FAANP, FAAN
This fun and interactive workshop teaches the three communication tools — voice, facial expressions, and body language — used to build relationships. Guided social learning helps participants apply these skills to their practice environment to win a patient’s trust in seconds.
Megan Mayer
JD
This session explains how the use of a multistage process of hypertension registry, visit templating, and staff support improved clinic registry scores to the MIPS benchmark.
Jamie Hilbert
10:00 am - 1:00 pm
This concise workshop on wound care and suturing covers essential techniques, materials, and best practices for effective wound management and closure in clinical settings.
Scott McKenny
EMT-P
Penny Miller
RN, MS, FNP-BC
11:30 am - 12:45 pm
This presentation provides an overview of the pivotal role MICRA plays in healthcare, the modernization of this landmark legislation, and what it means for an NP practice. As NPs look forward to independent practice under the provisions of AB 890, it is of vital importance that they understand MICRA's protections and parameters.
Patti Gurney
MSN, PPCNP-BC
Lisa Maas
This session provides a case-based approach to the management of common dysrhythmias seen across the lifespan. Discussions address the potential advantages and disadvantages of certain medications and describe inpatient and outpatient management of various dysrhythmias. Acute clinical presentations, methods to distinguish between dysrhythmias, and acute and long-term treatment will also be reviewed.
Vanessa Kalis
DNP, ACNP-BC, CPNP-AC, CHSE, FAANP
Rapid-Fire Session (Psych/Mental Health)
This presentation shows the initial results of the embedded psychiatric nurse practitioner team in the UCSF ED. Prior to implementation, it was estimated that 2000 behavioral health patients were seen annually, with an average stay of 26 hours. Post implementation, initial goals include average length of stay reduction of 25-50%, a decrease in avoidable admissions to medicine by 10%, and a reduction in severe workplace violence injuries by 50%.
Rebekah Manno
DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, CNL, RN
Mental health issues are among the most common chronic health conditions in the U.S., and studies suggest a decrease in life satisfaction post-COVID in populations outside the U.S. This presentation explores the correlations between life satisfaction and mental health among diverse communities.
Razel Milo
PhD, DNP, FNP-C, AAOPM-BC
This presentation clarifies common misconceptions about mental health disorders and their treatment. It provides evidence-based insights into accurate diagnoses, effective treatments, and the latest research findings. The goal of the session is to enhance understanding and support better mental health practices by addressing and correcting prevalent myths entertained by both providers and patients.
Alexandra Sietsma
DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC
12:45 pm - 2:00 pm
2:15 pm - 3:30 pm
Plenary Session
AB 890 created a pathway to independent practice authority for nurse practitioners: the 104 NP status. It also created another category, the 103 NP, who could practice without standardized procedures within certain group settings. Contrary to legislative intent, the Board of Registered Nursing then exceeded its authority by passing a regulation that required nurse practitioners to first practice as 103 NPs before becoming eligible for 104 NP licensure. We will discuss the case of Helgason v. Melby, which challenges this regulation as both exceeding the BRN’s regulatory authority and violating the constitution. Additionally, California Business & Professions Code § 2054 restricts anyone who is not a physician, surgeon, or Doctor of Osteopathy from using the title “Dr.” or the term “doctor” to identify themselves. This includes, of course, DNPs. After the Medical Board, Board of Registered Nursing, and a California district attorney came after a DNP for her use of the title “Dr.” even though she clearly disclosed that she was a nurse practitioner, DNPs across the state feared similar actions against them. We will discuss the case of Palmer v. Bonta, which questions the constitutionality of § 2054.
Samantha Romero-Drew, Attorney
Pacific Legal Foundation
The California Association for Nurse Practitioners is proud to present its inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award to long-time NP leader, Melanie Balestra. This is a prestigious recognition given to NPs who have shown exceptional dedication and leadership throughout their careers. Ms. Balestra, a practicing nurse practitioner and attorney, has made significant contributions to the profession by advancing the role of NPs, advocating for colleagues, improving the quality of patient care, and fostering the growth and development of the NP community.
3:45 pm - 4:15 pm
Poster Session and Viewing
Irene Arroyo-Romero
FNP-C
Martha Benavides
MSN, FNP-BC, AGACNP, CDCES, BC-ADM
Melissa Montague
MSN, APRN, CPNP-AC
Rupinderjit Samra
DNP, ACNP-BC, BC-ADM
Understanding current statutes, laws, and regulations for 104 NPs at the state and federal levels is vital to the success of an NP practice. This presentation outlines the pearls and pitfalls of starting and sustaining a private practice, including an overview of billing and coding.
Ron Ordona
DNP, FNP-BC, GS-C, WCC
This presentation breaks down the behaviors and thought processes that come into play in patients with short-term crises or chronic PTSD symptoms. Takeaways include a better understanding of trauma from the perspective of patients and increased knowledge of what can be done to help them feel heard and to increase their trust.
Alan Ooka
MSN, RN, PMHNP-BC
This presentation will review congenital heart defects as patients are now surviving into adulthood. Long term complications and considerations when caring for these patients will also be reviewed.
This presentation educates pediatric primary care providers to collaboratively identify and address mental health disorders early, covering symptoms, screening tools, and treatments.
Crystal Ross
MSN, PMHNP-BC
5:45 pm - 6:30 pm
Medication errors are preventable, yet they lead to more than 700,000 deaths annually. This presentation provides insight from medical malpractice claims involving medication-management errors by NPs. Common causes of medication-related claims will be discussed, contributing factors will be identified, and strategies to mitigate risk will be defined.
Surani Hayre-Kwan
DNP, MBA, FNP-BC, FACHE, FAANP
Jacqueline Ross
RN, PhD
This session affords an overview of depression treatment, including details about antidepressant medication classes and pharmacology. Discussions cover a brief evaluation of depression, a deep dive into considerations for starting medications, dose titration, common side effects, and patient education. Two case examples will be included.
Kameren Owens
MSN, FNP-BC
Research shows that optimism, happiness, and mindfulness improve cardiovascular health and recovery. This presentation explains how embracing psychological well-being in treatment can revolutionize outcomes for chronic diseases.
Kimberly Godsey
MSN, AG-ACNP-BC, HF-CERT
7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Soak up the majestic beauty of your surroundings as you enjoy music, dancing, and an assortment of appetizers — including pizza and sliders. We’re also featuring a signature chocolate martini in honor of special guest Melanie Balestra, recipient of the new CANP Lifetime Achievement Award.
7:30 am - 2:30 pm
7:00 am - 8:30 am
7:45 am - 9:00 am
This presentation provides a summary overview of ADHD, its diagnosis, and standard of practice. Guides will help NPs advise families on how to be successful at home, such as developing routines, managing time, and dealing with siblings. Discussion will also include working with teachers, tutors, and school to understand each child's individual needs. Suggestions will be provided for children with ADHD within their communities, such as negotiating sports, arts, and service organizations.
Susan Opas
PhD, PNP-BC, PMHS-BC, CNS, SN, CHES
This session reviews the ongoing results of an initiative aimed at improving patient outcomes by reducing failure-to-rescue events — defined as circumstances when patient deterioration goes unrecognized and leads to the activation of a rapid response or code blue. The initiative has determined clinical significance on the positive impact of incorporating a predictive analytic model into the critical-care outreach surveillance process to objectively identify patients at risk for decline.
Sarah Norton
MSN, RN, AGACN-BC, CCRN
The management of erectile dysfunction (ED) in primary care is evolving with new treatment options. This presentation explores emerging treatments that offer providers a broader range of effective solutions for patients who do not respond to conventional therapies. The goal of this session is to equip NPs with the knowledge to provide comprehensive and personalized care for patients with ED.
Sagie DeGuzman
PhD, APRN, A-CNS, ANP-C
Workshop (seperate fee required)
This workshop will train nurse practitioners on performing uterine aspiration procedures for early pregnancy loss or abortion. It covers procedural skills, reproductive justice, and patient counseling.
Julia Bugg
MSN, FNP-C
Mary Kern
MSN, CNM, FNP-C
9:15 am - 10:30 am
This update is led by experts in legal, statute, and billing changes that affect nurse practitioners. A short presentation will be followed by a Q&A session that taps into the panel’s expertise and encourages audience participation.
This presentation discusses the implementation of an HIV prevention and management program that is delivered on the street, at the point of care, to the unhoused and associated vulnerable populations. Program development, best practice measure for street medicine and HIV prevention and treatment, and program challenges will be addressed.
Bryan Tune
PhD, DNP, FNP-C, CRNA
Emergency department nurse practitioners who serve as NP clinical instructors fulfill a vital role. As these instructors guide the newest generation of NPs to work in the ever-evolving emergency department setting, evidence-based practical information, suggestions, and recommendations are helpful. This session highlights how best to meet and support the unique needs of these NP students.
Kathleen Ahn
Tonya Santiago
10:45 am - 12:00 pm
The presentation emphasizes core leadership skills — emotional intelligence, communication, collaboration, and adaptability — as essential components for advanced practice providers to lead and inspire change in healthcare.
This session provides a thorough overview of arthritis, including presentation, diagnostics, therapeutics, and systemic complications. Participants will be equipped with current evidence-based approaches to care.
Tina Escobedo
DNP, APRN, FNP-BC
Doxy-PEP is currently being used to decrease the rate of STIs, but at issue is the benefit of reducing infection rates against the possibility of developing resistance. This presentation reviews the use of this treatment and discusses new CDC guidelines recommending Doxy-PEP for MSM after unprotected sex.
Cynthia Sanchez
12:30 pm - 1:00 pm
Elvira Dominguez-Gomez
PhD, RN
Christine Yoshioka
AG-ACNP-BC, FNP-C
1:15 pm - 2:30 pm
Documentation plays a critical role in NP malpractice claims since it is a primary source of evidence in legal proceedings. This session shows how meticulous documentation practices enhance patient safety, mitigate legal risks, uphold professional standards, and provide a clear defense in the event of a malpractice claim.
Care of the patient with Type 2 diabetes requires a comprehensive knowledge of therapeutic interventions to promote favorable health outcomes. NPs are at the forefront of decreasing morbidity and mortality through appropriate pharmacological treatment, monitoring comorbidities, and promoting positive health behaviors. This session reviews the American Diabetes Association Standards of Care.
Janett Hildebrand
PhD, FNP-BC, CDCES
Sexually transmitted infections caused by Mycoplasma Genitalium are often unrecognized and can lead to recurrent genitourinary infections. This presentation teaches the clinician to identify and treat them.
2:30 pm
Conference Adjourns
* Symposiums are limited to the first 75 participants.
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