Purpose: The Acute Care Special Interest Group (SIG) provides a forum for nurse practitioners and advanced practice nurses practicing in acute and critical care settings to discuss clinical, professional, and policy issues unique to this environment. The SIG serves as a resource for sharing best practices, supporting professional development, and advancing the visibility and leadership of acute care NPs within GAPNA and the broader healthcare community.
Goals:
- Develop and share evidence-based resources, clinical tools, and educational materials relevant to acute and critical care practice.
- Promote NP leadership and visibility in acute and critical care settings, including interprofessional and organizational leadership roles.
- Collaborate with acute and critical care organizations to address practice, education, and policy priorities.
- Support and expand NP preceptor and mentorship opportunities within acute and critical care environments.
- Identify and advocate for acute care policy issues and provide recommendations.
Meeting Information: Meetings are held on the Fourth Tuesday of every month from 1:00–2:00 PM CST.
Additional Ways to Contribute: The Acute Care SIG serves as the primary platform for organizing SIG meeting materials, including minutes, handouts, educational resources, and collaboration updates. Members are encouraged to participate in discussions, share resources, and contribute ideas for future initiatives.
SIG Members
Acute & Emergent Care

Chair
Somali Nguyen, CRNP, DNP, AGACNP-BC

Chair-Elect
Stephanie Walz, MS, AGPCNP-BC, GS-C
Board Liaison (2025-2026)
Emily Nicoli, MS, RN, CRNP, AGNP, ACHPN

National Office Staff Liaison
Sarah-Louise Primavera