Advanced Emergency Nursing Journal

Ramirez, Elda; Davis, Wesley D.

doi: 10.1097/tme.0000000000000533pmid: 39303159

The creation of the American Academy of Emergency Nurse Practitioners (AAENP) marked a significant milestone in the professionalization of emergency nurse practitioners (ENPs). This interview with Dr. Elda Ramirez, the founder of AAENP, explores the critical moments and challenges that led to the establishment of the organization. Driven by the need for a dedicated body to advocate for the unique role of ENPs, AAENP was founded to address gaps in regulatory recognition and professional standards within the broader nursing profession. The manuscript delves into the origins of AAENP, highlighting the pivotal roles of co-founders Drs. Arlo Weltge and Kyle Kincaid, and discusses the organization’s early achievements, including the development of a specialized certification exam. AAENP’s journey underscores the importance of professional societies in advancing specialty practices and advocating for the interests of their members.

Wilbeck, Jennifer; Tucker, Paula; Davis, Wesley D.

doi: 10.1097/tme.0000000000000534pmid: 39303153

This manuscript explores the historical evolution of emergency nurse practitioner (ENP) education from its inception to its current state. It discusses key milestones, innovative leaders, curricular approaches and current program characteristics. The paper concludes with a review of the current state of ENP education, persistent challenges, and future directions. Professional organizations that have shaped both the ENP role and education over time are also considered. By examining the historical context, this review provides insights into the evolution of ENP education, contributing to a deeper understanding of the ENP role and education's significance in emergency care.

Hallman, Melanie Gibbons; Davis, Wesley D.

doi: 10.1097/tme.0000000000000539pmid: 39303157

For more than five decades, emergency nurse practitioners have developed partnerships and led improvements in emergency care delivery. Through these endeavors the quality of patient care has been amplified and access to emergency care has been augmented. Nurse practitioners providing emergency care possess fundamental leadership qualities necessary for leading teams in delivery of exceptional care. Though advanced practice nurse entrepreneurship is relatively new, engagement of emergency nurse practitioners in business ventures continues to evolve and expand. This article showcases the work of five emergency nurse practitioners whose leadership and entrepreneurship have elevated emergency care bringing recognition to the aptitude and versatility of the emergency nurse practitioner specialty.