Opening Remarks

The ENABC Board warmly welcomes you to this year's conference! We'll begin with a land acknowledgment, honoring the traditional and unceded territories where we gather. Heartfelt thanks to our generous sponsors and donors for making this event possible.

BC's Safer Suicide Care Initiative

With suicide risk highest shortly after discharge from emergency or inpatient services, the initiative focuses on suicide risk screening, stigma-free prevention strategies, and quality improvement in healthcare settings. The session will explore Interior Health's work in Emergency Departments and equip participants with practical tools to enhance suicide care in their own practices.

Presented by:

Amy Luff

Amy Luff

Regional Education Coordinator

Amy Luff is currently the Regional Education Coordinator for the Emergency Services Network in Interior Health BC. Amy brings 17 years of Emergency Nursing experience within Canada and internationally. Passionate about teaching and learning, Amy fosters a culture of continuous improvement in ED care. Balancing her role as an educator with ongoing clinical practice, she ensures her teaching remains grounded in current best practices while striving for innovative solutions to today's health care issues. Amy's commitment to excellence and her dedication to improving patient outcomes makes her a respected leader in Emergency Nursing education.

Emergency Services Network

and

Maria Weaver

Maria Weaver

Associate Director

Maria Weaver is a skilled and enthusiastic leader, educator and facilitator with over a decade of experience in the mental health and social services sectors. Her journey is marked by a profound dedication to enhancing crisis care reform, training diverse groups on de-escalation, uplifting the voices of those who have experienced challenges in mental health systems, championing mental health promotion, and leading critical work in suicide prevention and life promotion. Maria works for the Canadian Mental Health Association, BC Division as the Associate Director, Suicide Prevention and Life Promotion.

Suicide Prevention and Life Promotion

Wounded Warriors Canada

Dr. Black will introduce participants to Wounded Warriors Canada's (WWC) approach to helping ill and injured Trauma Exposed Professionals (TExP) across Canada. Based on WWC's Trauma Resiliency Training (TRT), Tim will focus on the 3 Pillars of Trauma Resiliency which include: the BETR (Body, Emotions, Thoughts, Relationships) Model of understanding trauma, the Trauma Formula, and the FORGE method for dealing with post-traumatic event exposure.

Presented by:

Dr.Tim Black

Dr. Tim Black

National Clinical Director

Dr. Tim Black, R. Psych. is the National Clinical Director for Wounded Warriors Canada. During his more than 20-year career as a tenured Associate Professor at one of the top graduate counsellor education programs in the country, Dr. Black has been a researcher, clinician, program developer, program co-founder, and clinical supervisor specializing in group counselling approaches for working with Trauma Exposed Professionals (TExP) and Trauma Exposed Family (TExF) members. As WWC's National Clinical Director, Tim supports and oversees the development and delivery of WWC's group counselling programs in Canada, as well as WWC's TExP education and training programs, alongside an extensive team of dedicated mental health professionals committed to serving the needs of TExP and TExF communities.

Wounded Warriors Canada

Wounded Warriors: Group Discussions

In this follow-up session, Dr. Tim Black will delve deeper into Wounded Warriors Canada's Trauma Resiliency Training (TRT) for Trauma Exposed Professionals (TExP). Participants will further explore the Three Pillars of Trauma Resiliency: the BETR Model (Body, Emotions, Thoughts, Relationships), the Trauma Formula, and the FORGE Method for managing trauma's long-term effects. This interactive session provides a space to discuss and apply these tools for resilience in high-stress environments.

Presented by:

Dr.Tim Black

Dr. Tim Black

National Clinical Director

Dr. Tim Black, R. Psych. is the National Clinical Director for Wounded Warriors Canada. During his more than 20-year career as a tenured Associate Professor at one of the top graduate counsellor education programs in the country, Dr. Black has been a researcher, clinician, program developer, program co-founder, and clinical supervisor specializing in group counselling approaches for working with Trauma Exposed Professionals (TExP) and Trauma Exposed Family (TExF) members. As WWC's National Clinical Director, Tim supports and oversees the development and delivery of WWC's group counselling programs in Canada, as well as WWC's TExP education and training programs, alongside an extensive team of dedicated mental health professionals committed to serving the needs of TExP and TExF communities.

Wounded Warriors Canada

and

Stephen Smith

Stephen Smith

Trauma Resiliency Training Instructor

Stephen Smith has been a paramedic with BC Emergency Health Services (BCEHS) for 35 years and began his 36th year in November. Before and during his career as a paramedic, Stephen served in the Canadian Armed Forces for 13 years, including tours with both UN and NATO missions. Stephen's tenure with BCEHS includes 31 years serving the Greater Vancouver Regional District (GVRD) and the past 4 years working in Sechelt. In 2013, he took leave due to an occupational stress injury (OSI). As a veteran, Stephen was able to access the support he needed, and since then, he has been dedicated to establishing a similar program within BCEHS. His work with the Veterans Transition Network and Wounded Warriors Canada, along with extensive peer support and participant courses, has deepened his understanding of OSIs and the stressors facing Trauma Exposed Professionals. Today, Stephen serves as a Trauma Resiliency Training instructor through Wounded Warriors Canada and CUPE 873. Since returning from his OSI, Stephen's mission has been to assist his coworkers and colleagues across Trauma Exposed Professions in finding recovery and joy in life once again.

Wounded Warriors Canada

Concurrent Sessions: Part 1

Ultrasound Guided IV Insertion

1430 - 1530

In this advanced simulation, participants will gain hands-on experience in ultrasound-guided intravenous catheter insertion, using state-of-the-art equipment graciously provided by Sonosite & Fujifilm. Attendees will learn specialized techniques to improve accuracy and patient outcomes in IV placement, making this a valuable skill-building session for all levels of practice.

Presented by:

Jeff Yu

Jeff Yu

Nurse Practitioner: Internal Medicine

Jeff Yu is a dedicated healthcare professional and educator with extensive experience in emergency nursing and critical care. Known for his expertise in trauma response and patient-centered care, Jeff has spent over a decade working in high-stakes healthcare environments, where he has honed his skills in managing complex, acute cases. In addition to his clinical work, Jeff is a passionate educator, mentoring new nurses and leading workshops on advanced life support techniques and emergency response protocols. He brings a wealth of practical knowledge and a commitment to improving patient outcomes, making him a valuable resource in both clinical and educational settings.

Fraser Health Authority

Amputation Simulation

1430 - 1530

Engage in a realistic, hands-on training designed to build essential skills for managing traumatic amputations. Participants will practice applying tourniquets, controlling blood loss, and performing rapid assessments in a high-pressure environment. This workshop, led by experienced facilitators, enhances confidence and teamwork for handling severe limb injuries in emergency settings. critical moments.

Presented by:

Jo-Ann Hnatiuk

Jo-Ann Hnatiuk

Nursing Specialist Advisor

Jo-Ann Hnatiuk has been an Emergency Room Nurse for over 29 years. She began her nursing career in the Emergency Department, working in the UK and Australia. After her time abroad, Jo-Ann moved to Calgary, where she completed her Master's of Nursing at the University of Calgary. In Calgary, she worked at the Foothills Medical Centre in the Emergency Department and with STARS, providing critical care air transport for severely ill and injured patients across southern Alberta and British Columbia. Since August 2019, Jo-Ann has held a provincial trauma leadership role, embracing the opportunity to focus on the trauma community and tackle the unique challenges of ensuring optimal trauma care in BC. Jo-Ann also serves in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) as a Reserve Force Critical Care Nursing Officer, where she holds the role of Nursing Specialist Advisor. In this capacity, she provides strategic guidance to the Chief Nursing Officer and mentorship and professional development for new and current Nursing Officers. Additionally, she contributes to developing the joint trauma registry program for the CAF. With over a decade of experience as a Clinical Practice Educator at Elk Valley Hospital in Fernie, BC, Jo-Ann has provided clinical education to communities across the East Kootenay region. She has delivered courses such as ACLS, PALS, TNCC, ENPC, EPICC-F, EPICC-T, and CTAS, supporting rural nurses throughout the region.

Canadian Armed Forces

Pediatric Trauma Simulation

1430 - 1530

This immersive, hands-on workshop equips participants with essential skills for managing complex pediatric trauma cases. Guided by experienced educators from BC Children's, attendees will engage in a realistic scenario, applying assessment techniques and targeted interventions. The session concludes with a collaborative debrief, focusing on key insights and practical approaches tailored to pediatric trauma care.

Presented by:

Amy Watson

Amy Watson

Clinical Nurse Educator

Amy Watson has 17 years of experience in emergency nursing and is a Clinical Nurse Educator at BC Children's Hospital Emergency Department. She is an instructor for PALS and Pediatric Advanced Trauma Simulation, as well as CTAS, sharing her expertise to advance emergency care standards and training.

BC Children's Hospital

,

Geri Murphy

Geri Murphy

Clinical Nurse Educator

Geri Murphy has over 30 years of experience in pediatric emergency nursing and currently serves as a Clinical Nurse Educator at BC Children's Emergency Department. She is a certified instructor and instructor trainer for PALS, BLS, and PEARS and also teaches CTAS, contributing her expertise to emergency care education across diverse healthcare communities.

BC Children's Hospital

and

Carmella Silvestri

Carmella Silvestri

Clinical Resource Nurse

Carmella Silvestri is a Clinical Resource Nurse at BC Children's Emergency Department. Carmella started her career on the Nursing Resource Team at BC Children's in 2013 which gave her a strong foundation in pediatric acute care. Carmella found herself both terrified of and drawn to emergency nursing. She finally dipped her toe in the ED waters in 2014 where she has since flourished. As a PALS instructor and resource nurse, Carmella has special interests in team dynamics in pediatric resuscitation and caring for families at the end of life. A lifelong learner and self-described nursing nerd, Carmella inspires others to excellence through her positive and enthusiastic teaching and mentorship style.

BC Children's Hospital

Dinner Reception

Conclude the day with a memorable evening reception in the elegant Miama Chia Room. Surrounded by great company, attendees can savor a delightful dinner in a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. Each guest will receive two drink tickets to enjoy a selection of house drinks, giving you the chance to unwind and celebrate the day's achievements. With good food, fine drinks, and enriching conversations, this reception promises to be a highlight of the conference experience.

Dinner Menu

Hicks Lake Dinner Buffet

Bread Display

Assorted Fresh Rolls

Salad Display

Spinach, Frisee, Strawberries, Toasted Goat Cheese, Poppy Seed Dressing

Grilled Vegetable Salad with Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinegar

Dried Cranberry, Almond, Cole slaw, Maple, Apple Cider Dressing Vine Ripened Tomato, Cucumber Carpaccio, Bocconcini Filone Chips, Sherry Gastrique

Smoked Potato Salad, Bacon, Scallions, Sour Cream Dressing

Platter Display

Hot Smoked BC Salmon, Candied Salmon, Poached Salmon, Horseradish Crème Fraîche, Red Onion, Crispy Capers, Crackers

Charcuterie Selection of Cured & Air Dried Meats Marinated Mushrooms, Artichokes, Pickled Vegetables, Horseradish Aioli, Local Honey Mustard

Hot Entrees

Braised Beef Short Rib, Rosemary Red Wine Jus

Baked Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni, Rose Sauce, Mozzarella

Compliments

Herb Roasted Baby Nugget Potatoes

Steamed Fresh Market Vegetables

Dessert Display

Rich Dark Chocolate Mousse

Assorted Cheesecakes Gourmet Regular & Decaffeinated Coffee, Assortment Fine Teas

Gourmet Regular & Decaffeinated Coffee, Assortment Fine Teas

Sponsored by: CFHC

Empowering Every Voice: Driving System Change in Emergency Care

Join us as we explore "The Wicked Problem" facing Emergency Departments today. This session will delve into the complexities of patient acuity, workload, burnout, and staffing challenges, focusing on actionable solutions through interdisciplinary team building and scope optimization. Discover how "Top of License" practices and cohesive teamwork can improve patient outcomes, increase professional satisfaction, and address systemic barriers in emergency care. Together, we can empower every voice to drive meaningful change.

Presented by:

Kim Ferraro

Kim Ferraro

Provincial Lead

Kim Ferraro is a Clinical Nurse Specialist and Provincial Lead for Emergency Care BC. She focuses on optimizing nurse scope, studying different models of care, and providing operational support for Emergency Department care delivery. Kim also serves as a sessional instructor in the MN/NP program at UNBC and practices as a nurse in her local Emergency Department.

Emergency Care BC

Bridging the Generational Gap

This session brings together nurses from different generations—Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z—to share insights, foster intergenerational learning, and explore ways to strengthen understanding across age groups in healthcare. Through shared perspectives, participants will gain valuable takeaways on how each generation can support and learn from one another in a collaborative healthcare environment.

Presented by:

Gillian Parlane

Gillian Parlane

Patient Care Manager

Gillian Parlane is an Emergency Registered Nurse, starting her career at Langley Memorial and moving to St Paul's hospital. She completed her Masters of Health Administration from UBC in 2021. She eventually took on several leadership roles including Clinical Informatics and change management, eventually leading to her current role as Patient Care Manager of St. Paul's Emergency Department. She loves working in the Emergency Department for the amazing people it attracts and the incredible work we do every shift, despite the many challenges.

St. Paul's Hospital

and

Jen Newman

Jen Newman

Patient Care Manager

Having worked as an Emergency RN since 2015, exploring both urban and rural centers of practice, Jen has spent the last three years teaching in BCIT's Emergency program, and enjoys the challenge of equipping learners to thrive as competent, proactive, balanced practitioners in the wild world of the ED!

St. Paul's Hospital

Quality Documentation: Your Best Defence

Join Sarah Boucaud, Legal Advisor with the Canadian Nurses Protective Society, for a focused session on the importance of quality documentation in healthcare. Drawing from her expertise in privacy law and risk management, Sarah will share best practices for creating clear, accurate records that protect both healthcare professionals and their patients. This session offers essential strategies to strengthen your documentation skills and enhance legal safeguards in your practice.

Presented by:

Sarah Boucaud

Sarah Boucaud

Legal Advisor

Sarah Boucaud is a Legal Advisor with the Canadian Nurses Protective Society. She has experience in information management, privacy law and cybersecurity, and has previously worked as a law clerk for the Federal Court of Canada and at a national health charity as Legal Counsel and Privacy Officer. Prior to pursuing a legal career, Sarah completed a Master of Health Administration and worked in diverse healthcare settings. She has always been interested in how the healthcare system and law work together. Sarah currently provides risk management and litigation advice to nurses. She is a member of the Law Society of Ontario.

Canadian Nurses Protective Society

Beyond the Chaos: Implementing Violence Prevention Strategies in an Acute Emergency Department

Since 2021, the Vancouver General Hospital Emergency Department has reported 100 incidents of workplace violence, impacting staff well-being and care quality. In response, ED leadership and the People Safety department implemented weekly in-situ simulations to improve violence prevention. This session, led by certified trainers, is designed to enhance early identification, incident reporting, and staff preparedness in managing violence. Join us in learning about the program's impact and its role in fostering a safer ED environment.

Presented by:

Kaela Pozsgay

Kaela Pozsgay

Nurse Clinician

Kaela Pozsgay is a dedicated registered nurse with extensive experience in Critical Care. She earned her undergraduate degree from Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops and began her career in the Emergency Department at Royal Inland Hospital, where she also completed her Emergency Certificate through Mount Royal University. In 2015, Kaela moved to Vancouver to join the Emergency Department at Vancouver General Hospital. During this time, she took a brief hiatus to pursue the ICU Critical Care program at BCIT. Though she briefly explored other areas, Kaela's true passion lies in emergency care, and she returned to the ED as a clinician two years ago. She is deeply committed to teaching and simulation, and she strives to foster a supportive and safe environment for her colleagues.

Vancouver Coastal Health

and

Krista McCallum

Krista McCallum

Head Nurse Educator

Krista McCallum is the Head Nurse Educator at VGH Emergency Department, with 15 years of experience working as an RN with Vancouver Coastal Health. In her role, Krista is dedicated to violence prevention, and the creation of a safe, supportive work environment for Emergency Department staff. This is accomplished through education and empowerment, ensuring every team member is equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to continuous improvement of the department.

Vancouver General Hospital

The Importance of Leaning on Each Other

Join the Emergency Services Network (ESN) Clinical Order Set Committee for an insightful session on the power of collaboration in emergency care. This interdisciplinary team works to standardize and streamline Order Sets and Clinical Decision Support Tools for efficiency and consistency across emergency settings. Learn how real-time feedback, frequent meetings, and cross-department collaboration support impactful decision-making and improve patient outcomes.

Presented by:

Karli Cohen

Karli Cohen

Clinical Nurse Specialist

Karli Cohen is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse working as a Clinical Nurse Specialist with Interior Health Authority. Her portfolio encompasses all 29 Emergency Departments within the Health Authority. Karli began her Nursing career as a Practical Nurse in High Risk Obstetrics in 2009. She graduated with her BScN at McMaster University in Hamilton Ontario, and subsequently completed her Emergency and Critical Care Training at the Hamilton General Hospital, which is a Level 1 Trauma Centre. Since then, Karli has worked in rural, community, regional, and tertiary Emergency Departments across Canada and Australia, and also completed her Remote Practice Certification to work with fly0in fly-out remote Aboriginal communities in BC in 2018. Working in these variable and unique environments highlighted the unique and complex nature of healthcare systems and emergency care. Her desire to improve and take action at a systems level led her to complete her Master of Science in Nursing at UBC in 2021. Since graduating, Karli has been focused on systems level transformation, advancing emergency nursing practice, and working to improve and standardize emergency care.

Interior Health

Learning to Work with Trauma

This presentation explores insights from a narrative inquiry study on how rural acute care nurses integrate trauma-informed care into their practice. The discussion examines the challenges of addressing trauma in resource-limited, isolated settings and how personal and professional boundaries shape trauma care. Key themes include recognizing trauma through language and metaphor, and reframing trauma with a growth-focused, strengths-based approach to support nurse resilience and enhance patient care.

Presented by:

Stephanie Wright

Stephanie Wright

Regional Clinical Educator

Stephanie Wright is a Registered Nurse with a background in critical care and emergency nursing in both urban and rural settings. She has held leadership roles, including Critical Care Outreach Team Coordinator and Clinical Nurse Educator. Currently, she serves as a Regional Clinical Educator with the Coastal Professional Practice team at Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH). She holds a Master's in Nursing - Advanced Practice Leadership from the University of Victoria, where her thesis explored how rural nurses integrate trauma and trauma-informed care into practice, aiming to improve both patient care and nurse well-being.

Vancouver Coastal Professional Practice