From Clinical Expertise to Entrepreneurial Leadership

Danielle currently serves as the CEO of NursingInstyle Consulting, a nurse-led consulting and coaching firm dedicated to helping nurses transition from bedside practice into entrepreneurship. With more than two decades of clinical experience, she works closely with healthcare professionals to build and scale businesses, including home health agencies, infusion clinics, and consulting practices.

Her practice combines executive coaching, business development, and strategic consulting. Danielle applies her clinical insight and business acumen to guide nurses in creating sustainable, profitable ventures that support their goals and enhance patient care.

Finding a Professional Home with INS

Danielle’s journey with the Infusion Nurses Society began with her commitment to standards and evidence-based practice in infusion therapy. As she sought resources to strengthen patient safety and nurse empowerment, INS emerged as a professional home—one that aligned with her values and dedication to clinical excellence.

Through INS, Danielle found opportunities to learn, grow, and collaborate with leaders committed to advancing the specialty. This foundation has supported her continued involvement and leadership within the organization.

A Call to Serve on the INS Board of Directors

Service has always been central to Danielle’s leadership philosophy. Her decision to serve on the INS Board of Directors was driven by a desire to give back to a community that played a pivotal role in shaping her career.

“I was inspired to serve because I believe strongly in advancing our specialty and ensuring infusion nurses have the tools, resources, and recognition they deserve,” she shares. Board service allows Danielle to contribute to initiatives that elevate infusion nursing on both national and global levels while advocating for the profession she is deeply passionate about.

The Impact of INS on Her Career

Danielle credits INS with transforming her professional journey—expanding her leadership opportunities, growing her network, and deepening her knowledge. Most importantly, INS has provided a platform to advocate for the vital role of infusion nurses in healthcare’s future.

Looking Ahead: Supporting Healthy Work Environments

As a Board member, one of Danielle’s top priorities is advancing healthy work environments within infusion nursing.

“By promoting evidence-based standards, professional development, and workforce sustainability, I want to ensure that infusion nurses not only thrive in their practice but are also recognized as leaders in shaping the future of patient-centered care,” says Danielle.

Advice for Staying Engaged and Growing

For infusion nurses looking to stay connected and continue growing in their practice, Danielle offers simple but powerful advice: stay curious and connected.

She encourages nurses to engage with INS resources, attend educational offerings, and actively participate in peer discussions. Continuous learning and networking are essential to staying at the forefront of clinical excellence—and INS provides the tools to make that possible.

A Creative Side You Might Not Expect

Outside of nursing leadership, Danielle is a proud grandmother who treasures time with her family. She is also the owner of Dani Rene Jewels, where she designs one-of-a-kind jewelry and furniture pieces.

During the COVID-19 shutdown, Danielle discovered a new creative outlet in art—finding joy, freedom, and self-expression through the creative process. What began as exploration has become a meaningful part of her life, reminding her of the importance of balance, creativity, and giving oneself permission to grow in unexpected ways.

The post Leadership in Action: Danielle Jenkins, MBA, BSN, RN, CRNI appeared first on INS.

Yet, in the midst of caring for everyone else, we often quietly neglect one essential patient: ourselves.

The profession of nursing carries both honor and weight. Long hours, emotional intensity, physical demands, and the responsibility of clinical decision making take a cumulative toll. Over time, this strain may surface as chronic fatigue, musculoskeletal pain, disrupted sleep, compassion fatigue, burnout, anxiety, or emotional exhaustion. Too often, these experiences are normalized. We tell ourselves this is just part of the job. We push through discomfort, minimize stress, and continue to give, sometimes at great personal cost.

There is a common misconception that caring for ourselves is selfish or indulgent. In reality, it is foundational to safe, ethical, and sustainable nursing practice. Just as we educate our patients on hydration, nutrition, rest, and emotional well-being, we must be willing to extend that same care inward. Self-care is not a departure from caregiving; it is an extension of it.

When we are physically depleted, mentally overwhelmed, or emotionally drained, the impact extends beyond the individual. It affects clinical judgment, patient safety, team morale, and job satisfaction. Conversely, when we are supported and well, we are better able to remain present, empathetic, and engaged in our work. Prioritizing well-being helps preserve stamina, resilience, clarity, and the sense of purpose that drew us into nursing in the first place.

Caring for the whole nurse means recognizing that well-being is multifaceted. Physical health includes adequate rest, nourishment, movement, and addressing health concerns early rather than pushing through pain. Mental health involves managing stress, setting healthy boundaries, and seeking support when the weight of responsibility becomes heavy. Emotional health requires acknowledging the emotional labor of nursing, processing difficult experiences, and allowing space for reflection, grief, and healing. These dimensions are deeply interconnected, and neglecting one often affects the others.

While personal responsibility plays a role, nurse well-being cannot rest on individuals alone. It must also be supported by leadership, professional organizations, and workplace cultures that encourage balance, open dialogue, and psychological safety. Normalizing conversations about stress, burnout, and resilience helps shift the narrative away from endurance at all costs and toward sustainability and support.

To every nurse reading this, your compassion, expertise, and commitment matter deeply. But so do you. The care you give so freely to patients, families, and communities is care you deserve as well. Taking time to rest, recharge, and tend to your own physical, mental, and emotional health is not stepping away from the profession; it is protecting your ability to remain in it.

Caring for yourself is not optional. It is essential to your health, the safety of your patients, and the future of nursing itself.

The post The Care You Deserve: A Message for Every Nurse appeared first on INS.

The expansion of home-based health care has transformed the administration of complex therapies, including intravenous (IV) infusions, into the home environment. Home infusion nurses are central to this transformation, providing critical care services that were once confined to inpatient settings. Their role demands a unique blend of technical proficiency, clinical judgment, and interpersonal skills. Understanding the educational and experiential foundation required for this specialty is essential for workforce development, patient safety, and quality outcomes.

Educational Pathways to Home Infusion Nursing

Who are home infusion nurses—and what shapes their expertise? The educational and clinical backgrounds of these professionals are notably diverse, reflecting the complexity and autonomy required to deliver infusion therapies safely in the home. Rather than adhering to a single academic trajectory, home infusion nurses represent a spectrum of educational preparation, unified by a shared commitment to clinical rigor, adaptability, and lifelong learning.

According to a national workforce study conducted by the National Home Infusion Association (NHIA), 53% of surveyed home infusion nurses hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). This degree equips nurses with a robust foundation in evidence-based practice, leadership, and systems thinking—competencies that are essential for managing complex therapies in decentralized settings. An additional 32% of respondents reported earning an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), which emphasizes core clinical skills and patient-centered care. Notably, 10% of nurses surveyed had pursued a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), signaling advanced preparation in specialized practice areas, nursing education, or health care leadership.¹

This distribution of academic credentials underscores that excellence in home infusion nursing is not defined by a singular degree, but rather by the integration of formal education with clinical acumen and professional growth. While licensure provides the legal authority to practice, many nurses pursue additional professional development through specialty certifications. Examples include the Certified Registered Nurse Infusion (CRNI®) with the Infusion Nurses Society (via the Infusion Nurses Certification Corporation [INCC]), Oncology Certified Nurse (ONC®) with the Oncology Nursing Society, and Immunoglobulin Certified Nurse (IgCN®) with the Immunoglobulin National Society.

Clinical Experience and Competency Development

Beyond formal education and certification, clinical experience plays a pivotal role in shaping the readiness and confidence of home infusion nurses. The NHIA study revealed that these professionals often bring extensive backgrounds in medical-surgical, intensive care, emergency, oncology, and home health settings. These environments demand precision, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of safety protocols—skills that translate directly to the home infusion context. On average, nurses entering this field report over 6 years of clinical experience, positioning them to navigate the nuanced challenges of home-based care with competence and autonomy.¹

As the complexity of home-based therapies continues to evolve, so too must the strategies for supporting and recruiting this workforce. The diversity of educational pathways and clinical experiences represented in home infusion nursing is a strength—one that calls for flexible onboarding, mentorship, and continuing education models that honor both foundational training and emerging competencies. In this way, the profession can continue to attract and retain nurses who are not only clinically skilled but also deeply invested in the future of patient-centered, home-based care.

Transitioning from hospital to home infusion care requires competence in home infusion tasks. Nurses must demonstrate autonomous clinical decision-making, as they often assess and respond to patient needs. They must also evaluate the safety and suitability of the home environment for infusion therapy and provide comprehensive education to patients and caregivers. This includes teaching complex regimens in accessible, culturally sensitive ways. Infusion companies support this transition through structured onboarding programs and preceptorships, which reinforce clinical protocols and foster confidence in independent practice.¹

Core Responsibilities of the Home Infusion Nurse

Home infusion nurses are highly skilled clinicians whose practice integrates advanced infusion therapy, comprehensive patient assessments, vascular access expertise, and continual patient education—delivering high-quality care across environments as diverse as the patients they serve. Their responsibilities span several domains, beginning with the clinical preparation and administration of infusion therapies. This includes initiating and maintaining IV access, administering medications, such as antibiotics, biologics, chemotherapy, hydration, and parenteral nutrition, and monitoring for adverse reactions. Nurses must maintain sterility and adhere to infection prevention protocols, particularly when managing central vascular access devices.^1,2

Comprehensive patient assessment is another critical responsibility. Home infusion nurses conduct initial and ongoing evaluations of physical, emotional, and environmental factors. They assess vital signs, lab values, and infusion site integrity, and identify early signs of complications such as phlebitis, infiltration, or sepsis. These assessments inform clinical decision-making and guide interventions that may prevent hospital readmissions.

Patient and caregiver education is central to the infusion nurse’s role. Nurses teach medication preparation and administration, vascular access device care, and troubleshooting techniques, reinforcing infection prevention, hand hygiene, and emergency protocols. Effective education requires the use of visual aids, teach-back methods, and culturally appropriate materials to ensure understanding and adherence. Education also empowers patients to participate actively in their care, improving outcomes and satisfaction.

Care coordination and communication are essential for continuity of care. Home infusion nurses collaborate with physicians, pharmacy teams, case managers, and dietitians to ensure that treatment plans are executed safely and efficiently. They document care in electronic health records (EHRs), communicate changes in patient status, and coordinate supplies, equipment, and follow-up visits. This coordination supports timely interventions and reduces fragmentation in care delivery.

Regulatory compliance and documentation are also integral to the role. Nurses must adhere to state-specific home infusion nursing regulations, accreditation standards, and company policies and procedures. They are responsible for completing timely, accurate documentation of all interventions and patient responses, and for participating in quality improvement initiatives and incident reporting. These activities support accountability, transparency, and continuous improvement in home infusion services.

Models of In-Home Nursing Services in Home Infusion Care

As the demand for home-based infusion therapy continues to grow, so too does the need for flexible, scalable models of nursing service delivery. Understanding the structural variations in how in-home nursing is provided is essential for clinicians seeking to optimize care coordination, workforce utilization, and patient outcomes. Two predominant models shape the current landscape: direct employment through home infusion companies and partnerships with home health agencies.

In the first model, nurses are employed directly by the home infusion provider. These organizations may staff a combination of full-time and per diem nurses who are assigned to specific geographic territories. This internal staffing approach supports integrated care coordination, allowing nurses to collaborate closely with pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, dietitians, and other members of the interdisciplinary team. The proximity of nursing services to the dispensing pharmacy fosters continuity of care, streamlined communication, and shared accountability for clinical outcomes. Additionally, internal staffing enables organizations to standardize training, documentation, and quality assurance processes across their nursing teams.

However, not all home infusion companies maintain an internal nursing workforce. In such cases, or when additional geographic or scheduling coverage is needed, home infusion providers may partner with external home health agencies. These agencies may employ nurses who are trained in home infusion therapy and can deliver care on behalf of the infusion provider. According to industry data, approximately 39% of home infusion nursing visits are completed by agencies other than the primary infusion provider, underscoring the collaborative nature of this model.¹

Home health agencies offer several strategic advantages. They can expand the geographic reach of infusion services, provide flexible staffing, and support patient needs. When agencies employ nurses who are clinically competent in infusion care, they become valuable partners in extending access and enhancing responsiveness to patient needs. However, this model also introduces additional layers of coordination, requiring clear communication protocols, shared documentation systems, and mutual understanding of clinical expectations.

Regardless of the staffing model, the success of home infusion therapy hinges on effective interdisciplinary collaboration. Whether nurses are employed internally or contracted externally, all clinicians involved in the patient’s care must communicate consistently and comprehensively. Ultimately, both models offer viable pathways for delivering high-quality in-home nursing services. The choice between them often depends on organizational capacity, geographic considerations, and patient volume. What remains constant, however, is the imperative for seamless coordination, clinical excellence, and a unified commitment to patient-centered care.

Evolving Challenges and Opportunities

As home infusion expands, nurses face new challenges. Technology integration is one such challenge, requiring proficiency in smart pumps, remote monitoring, and telehealth platforms. Nurses must also manage increasingly complex patient populations, including individuals with multiple comorbidities, polypharmacy, and social determinants of health that impact care delivery. Workforce sustainability is another concern, as nurses navigate burnout, safety risks, and limited professional development opportunities.

Conversely, the field offers rich opportunities for leadership, education, and innovation. Home infusion nurses often serve as clinical liaisons, preceptors, and policy advocates, shaping the future of decentralized care. Their insights inform the development of scalable models, safety protocols, and educational frameworks that elevate standards and foster interdisciplinary collaboration.

Conclusion

Home infusion nursing is a highly skilled, autonomous specialty that demands rigorous education, diverse clinical experience, and a commitment to patient-centered care. As healthcare continues to move beyond hospital walls, these nurses play a pivotal role in ensuring safe, effective, and compassionate infusion therapy in the home. Investing in their preparation, support, and recognition is essential to advancing both patient outcomes and the nursing profession.

Laura Luckow, MSN, BSN, CRNI®

Director of Nurse Education and Programs

National Home Infusion Association

Laura.luckow@nhia.org

References

1. Haines D, Counce J, and Charron J. (2024).  Association between years of nursing experience and clinical background among home infusion nurses: A descriptive workforce assessment. Infusion Journal, 3 (2), 5-11. https://doi.org/10.70776/WCFG3587
2. Nickel B, Gorski LA, Kleidon TM, et al. Infusion therapy standards of practice. J Infus Nurs. 2024;47(Suppl 1):S1-S285. doi:10.1097/NAN.0000000000000532

The post The Path and Practice of Home Infusion Nursing: Education, Experience, and Evolving Responsibilities appeared first on INS.

The Certified Registered Nurse Infusion (CRNI®) examination is a significant milestone for nursing professionals specializing in infusion therapy. This certification not only showcases a nurse’s expertise in a critical area of patient care but also enhances their career opportunities and professional development. As we celebrate the latest round of CRNI® passers, it’s important to recognize the hard work and dedication that has gone into achieving this esteemed certification.

Congratulations to the following CRNI®s who passed the September 2025 examination:

UNITED STATES:

Arkansas

• Emiley Burke
• Madelyn Nagrampa
• Rebecca Harper
• Roxanne Marlar

Arizona

• Brian Booth
• Raquel Perdagao

California

• Amanda Soderberg
• Angela Hanchett
• Ashley-Jean De Guzman
• Beatriz Navarro
• Dana Hjelte
• Ericka Mamich
• Fran Brown
• Jessica Nott
• Jordan Fitzpatrick
• Kalpana Prasai
• Lauren Flores
• Mae Uy Buenafe
• Marianne Tuazon
• Phoebe Salles
• Sanra Dee Petmecky

Colorado

• Danielle Willkom
• Serenity Mirabito

Connecticut

• Kimberly Hull
• Wendy Tompkins

Florida

• April Diaz
• George Graboski
• Jay Lloyd Grove
• Jennifer Roessler
• Lisa Taylor
• Randy Tallhamer
• Rebecca Albert
• Rebecca Poland
• Sherri Rogers
• Vanessa Lee
• Vicky Starr

Georgia

• Brittany Mulcahey
• Coreyonna Whitehead
• Erin Neuhaus
• Henry Mugovero
• Jennifer Jones Faulkner
• Julia McGruder
• Ross McMillan
• Yuliya Bibbo

Iowa

• Autumn Bruning
• Brooke Hanson

Idaho

• Christy Carter
• Crystal Gower
• Tansy Price

Illinois

• Camilla Solis
• Jasmine Dotson
• Kathleen Brush
• Lara Jafilan
• Maggie Cour
• Rowena De Mesa

Indiana

• Bethany Hasselman
• Christa Gould
• Jennifer Mulvaney
• Kristen Horton
• Susan Lown

Massachusetts

• Jermaine Cardosa
• Kara Overton
• Kate McGrath
• Lauren Nassr Willet
• Virginia Ryan

Maryland

• Armida Maglaqui
• Warren Buddy Buscemi

Michigan

• Cynthia Williams
• Jaqueline Rae Shumaker
• Laura Messer

Missouri

• Elena Stoyanova
• Jadon Williams
• Mark Cyruss Dicang
• Marke Wagner
• Sarah Foster

Montana

• Brittany Liszewski

North Carolina

• Deanne Raney
• Laura Rogers

New Jersey

• Ashley Bartolome
• Carinna Chavez
• Danielle Wince
• Louise Hamblin
• Marisol Flores
• Nadya Lazarev
• Robert Chavez
• Samilia Beckley

New Mexico

• Yolanda Soler Gutierrez

Nevada

• Ariana Johnson

New York

• Annelise Wood
• Garnette Maria Macaspac Domingo
• Karen Bull
• Linelle Limehouse
• Lulette Regidor
• Padma Panicker
• Patrick Donahue
• Rebekah Nelson
• Xueyan Pan

Ohio

• John Baryak
• Kelly Cash
• Laura Alexander
• Ruth Ann Telles-Baker
• Taylor Wallace
• Wendy Ulrich

Oregon

• Aleksandra Shane
• Jason Toluba
• Jennifer Nelson
• Joanne Echano
• Kassia Luskin
• Stephanie Randolph
• Theresa Stratton

Pennsylvania

• Amber Hoiland
• Heidi Boyd
• Justin Palmer
• Megan Cornman

Tennessee

• Angelina Pusateri
• Carley Shinlever
• Claudia McCarthy-Phillips
• Connie Hubbard
• Sara Dajani
• Seth Keen
• Summer Bartz

Texas

• Alicia Garrido
• Angel Cabrera
• Brooke Caldwell
• Charles Kugler
• Charlott Baron
• Christina Conne
• Cristella Bakke
• Dayami Fernandez
• Esperanza Noyola
• Katherine Wright
• LaTerria Anderson
• Lisa Perry
• Lizette Sanchez
• Marie Delouche
• Veronica Newton
• Victor Valdez

Utah

• Katie Janke
• Misti Murphy

Virginia

• Jessica Zielinski
• Mavis Mimi Brandon
• Penny Torian
• Renee Colelli
• Renee Morrison
• Shawna Stokes

Vermont

• Kelly Langston
• Sarah Yeager

Washington

• Charis Downs
• Hef Ricker
• Lisa Misquitta

Wisconsin

• David Rasmussen

West Virginia

• Bobby Gunoe
• Mickey Dunkley

Wyoming

• Stormi Cassity

International

Doha

• Diane Lacorte
• Jessa Joy Dairo

Qatar

• Michelle Abelidas

Jeddah

• Alaa Braik
• Eithar Akhon
• Ma Theresa Hilal
• Sinead O’Laughlin
• Yara Alharbi
• Yvanna David

Seoul

• Hyejin Lee
• Jonghyun Choi
• Jungyun Choi
• Kyung Hee Kim
• Yun Hee Hong
• Junghyeon Lee

The post Celebrating Success: The Newest Passers of the September 2025 CRNI® Exam appeared first on INS.

In the heart of Virginia’s scenic Shenandoah Valley, Liz May, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, NPD-BC, CNE, CRNI®, leads with purpose, passion, and a deep commitment to advancing the nursing profession. As the Administrative Director of Nursing Quality and Professional Practice at Augusta Health, Liz is dedicated to fostering a culture of excellence—one that empowers nurses to deliver safe, evidence-based care while elevating professional standards across every practice setting.

A Pivotal Step into Infusion Nursing

Liz’s path into infusion nursing began at Lawrence + Memorial Hospital in Connecticut, where she served as a vascular access nurse—a role that would ultimately shape her professional philosophy. Immersed in a dynamic clinical environment, she quickly recognized the critical importance of vascular integrity in patient outcomes.

“Through hands-on experience and collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, I developed a strong foundation in preserving vascular integrity—recognizing its critical role in patient outcomes,” Liz shares. Over time, her expertise grew into advocacy. She became a driving force for best practices in vascular access, emphasizing education, early assessment, and evidence-based interventions to reduce complications and improve long-term vessel health.

Today, Liz continues to mentor and empower the next generation of vascular access nurses, championing excellence in both clinical practice and professional growth.

Commitment to Certification and the INCC Mission

Liz’s connection to the Infusion Nurses Certification Corporation (INCC) is a natural extension of her dedication to advancing the profession. “I became involved with INCC because its mission embodies my commitment to uplifting nursing care and transforming patient outcomes,” she explains. “INCC passionately promotes evidence-based certification, empowers ongoing education, and drives research in the vital field of infusion nursing.”

Her own journey toward earning the Certified Registered Nurse Infusion (CRNI®) credential reflects that same commitment. “Obtaining the CRNI® certification is a significant achievement that goes beyond professional recognition,” she says. “It represents my unwavering commitment to delivering safe, evidence-based infusion care and my relentless pursuit of excellence in nursing practice.”

For Liz, certification is more than a title—it’s a catalyst for better patient outcomes and stronger, more cohesive healthcare teams.

Guiding the Future as an INCC Board Member

Now serving on the INCC Board of Directors, Liz is channeling her expertise in nursing quality and professional practice to help guide the future of infusion nursing certification. “Serving on the INCC Board is a meaningful opportunity for me to support a mission that closely aligns with my passion for nursing excellence and patient safety,” she says.

Her goals include strengthening the certification framework, advocating for continuing education, and ensuring infusion nurses are equipped with the tools and recognition they need to deliver exceptional care. “I believe in the power of certification to elevate clinical practice,” Liz emphasizes, “and I’m proud to help guide the strategic direction of the CRNI® program.”

Words of Wisdom for Aspiring CRNI®s

When asked what advice she would offer nurses pursuing certification, Liz’s enthusiasm shines through:

“Recognize the immense value this certification offers—not only for your career but also for the well-being of your patients! Engage in your preparation with purpose, fully embrace the learning journey, and allow the CRNI® to stand as a powerful symbol of your steadfast commitment to excellence in infusion nursing.”

Her encouragement is a reminder that certification is not simply an endpoint—it’s a lifelong commitment to growth, learning, and patient-centered care.

Beyond the Hospital Walls

Outside of her professional life, Liz finds balance and inspiration in nature. An avid kayaker, she seeks out the most scenic waterways across the country. “I strategically plan my travels around the best kayaking spots, from the serene waters of the East Coast to the breathtaking landscapes of the Pacific Northwest,” she shares. “This passion keeps me grounded, allows me to explore the wonders of nature, and fuels my adventurous spirit, one powerful paddle stroke at a time.”

A Leader, Advocate, and Lifelong Learner

Through her leadership at Augusta Health and her role on the INCC Board, Liz May, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, NPD-BC, CNE, CRNI®, exemplifies what it means to lead with integrity, vision, and heart. Her journey reflects a steadfast dedication to advancing nursing excellence and ensuring every infusion nurse has the knowledge, confidence, and certification to make a lasting impact on patient care.

The post Meet Liz May, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, NPD-BC, CNE, CRNI® appeared first on INS.

Amber Webb, MSN-HI, RN, CRNI®, has dedicated her career to advancing infusion nursing practice and strengthening professional standards across diverse care settings. Recently elected as President-Elect of the INS Board of Directors, Webb brings a wealth of experience, vision, and enthusiasm to the role.

A Dual Leadership Role

Webb currently serves as Nurse Manager at Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) in Portland, Oregon, where she oversees two distinct areas of practice. She manages a home infusion pharmacy group serving patients throughout Oregon and Washington, while also leading two licensed clinical spaces dedicated to ambulatory infusion.

Commitment to INS

Webb’s connection to INS began in 2019 when she transitioned from inpatient bone marrow and stem cell transplant to home infusion. Seeking to strengthen her expertise, she challenged herself to earn the Certified Registered Nurse Infusion (CRNI®) credential within six months. After immersing herself in the study materials, she achieved certification that same year.

She recalls that her first INS Annual Meeting- the Society’s 50th Anniversary event in Boston—was transformative. “It was at that meeting that I realized I wanted to be seen as a leader in infusion therapy, not only for our current community but also for the next generation of infusion nurses worldwide,” Webb reflects.

Path to the Board

Webb’s path to INS leadership accelerated when she applied for a Director-at-Large position on the Board of Directors. During her interview, she felt a natural synergy with fellow board members. “The energy was so high, they actually asked me to consider a presidential position,” she says. “I was elated. My response was so enthusiastic, I may have startled them a little.”

Elevating Infusion Nursing

Through her engagement with INS, Webb has advanced both her own leadership practice and the culture of her teams. She emphasizes the importance of integrating the INS Infusion Therapy Standards of Practice into daily practice.

“It’s interesting how people do not see infusion as its own specialty and how a procedure such as placing an IV is deemed so trivial in comparison to other environments of care,” Webb explains. “Standing on our infusion standards, my message to my staff is that WE are the experts in site selection, vascular access device selection, maintenance, and troubleshooting. It has taken some time to shift the culture dynamic when speaking with ordering providers about vascular access and holding our ground to the established standards, educating our peers, and presenting the evidence behind our standards. It’s been powerful!”.

“Standing on our infusion standards, my message to my staff is that WE are the experts in site selection, vascular access device selection, maintenance, and troubleshooting. It has taken some time to shift the culture dynamic when speaking with ordering providers about vascular access and holding our ground to the established standards, educating our peers, and presenting the evidence behind our standards. It’s been powerful!”.

Webb also views her role as an advocate for her teams. Being a supporter of my nurses during care conferences, upholding what they are saying, and being able to chime in to back them up and advocate for their practice and patient safety has been such a wonderful experience,” she notes.

A Vision for Connection

As she steps into her role as President-Elect, Webb is particularly passionate about fostering collaboration. “I love a good collab!” she says. “Working together across states, across enterprises, to really solidify our infusion networking and supporting each other to be empowered across the globe is something I aspire to do with my time on the Board.”

Guiding the Next Generation

For infusion nurses seeking to grow in their careers, Webb emphasizes the importance of engagement. “Become a member! Take advantage of the learning opportunities and reach out! Seek engagement from those in the industry you admire- take a moment to weave in concepts from the standards into your work, model and role model those with your peers, and become a peer leader! -That is just the beginning of launching into something really huge and becoming an agent of change in our industry!”

Beyond Nursing

Outside of her professional life, Webb has an adventurous streak. A former sport bike racer at Portland International Raceway, she once reached documented speeds of 145 miles per hour. She has even served as an “acrobat” in sidecar racing, a role requiring constant shifts of body weight at high speeds to counterbalance sharp turns. “It was a unique and memorable experience,” she says.

The post Leadership in Focus: Amber Webb, MSN-HI, RN, CRNI®, President-Elect, INS Board of Directors appeared first on INS.

The post Competency and Certification in Nursing Practice: Forever Achieving Nursing Service Excellence appeared first on INS.

What inspired you to develop the course, and what did it look like in its first year?

The inspiration to develop the course came directly from the students. They wanted to feel prepared for the clinical setting, not just in theory but in skill, safety, and confidence. In Spring 2021, I introduced the course as a 2-credit elective. Despite scheduling difficulties, 7 students enrolled. Since then, the course has become a 3-credit course and enrollment has steadily increased with 22 students in the Spring 2025 semester.

Back then, you hoped it would become a 3-credit required course with a lab. Where do things stand now?

I am happy to report that, as of the Spring 2024 semester, the course remains a 3-credit elective and is now updated with its own course number and renamed: NURS 341 Holistic Approach to Infusion Therapy. While it is not yet a required course, students from both Nursing and Health Studies can now enroll if it fits into their schedule. I remain hopeful that someday it will eventually become a core part of the curriculum. I recently retired as a full-time tenured associate professor in June 2025, but another faculty member is eager to continue offering and teaching the course, ensuring its future in the nursing program at Siena.

How has the course evolved in structure and delivery?

The course still follows the latest version (now 13 chapters) of Lisa Gorski’s textbook, Manual of I.V. Therapeutics, and uses the updated Fundamentals of Infusion Therapy (FIT) modules from the Infusion Nurses Society. Class sessions include one hour of content review followed by one hour of hands-on skills demonstration and practice that is an essential balance that students greatly appreciate. The first day of class, we continue to have guest speaker Marlene Steinheiser, PhD, RN, CRNI^®, Chief Clinical Officer, from Infusion Nurses Society and creator of the FIT modules on Zoom, who guides the students on how to use FIT and the INS website.

Have the FIT modules changed, and how are those updates incorporated?

The FIT modules are updated in accordance with the latest INS Infusion Therapy Standards of Practice (Standards). Their blend of videos, scenarios, and activities continues to be one of the students’ favorite parts of the course, along with hands-on skills practice, helping reinforce class content with evidence-based practice. Another thing students like about the FIT modules is that they will forever have access to them once they pay and register at the start of the course.

Have you added new tools or strategies?

One new addition to the course is Kahoot quizzes at the end of each content session, which adds an element of fun and review before skills practice. At the end of the semester, students are evaluated on 3 critical skills: IV insertion, blood draws, and central line dressing changes. These are the skills they practice throughout the semester and will use wherever they are employed.

What feedback have you received from recent students?

Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Here is a little of what students have shared:

“This course was incredibly helpful for my future nursing career. It not only prepared me to insert IVs but also taught me what signs and symptoms to look for. Everyone should take this class.”

“The FIT modules helped me apply knowledge to real-life situations. I especially appreciated being able to revisit the content as needed.”

“Before the course, I had minimal experience with infusion therapy. Now, I feel confident and competent.”

“After this course, I felt as though I had proficient knowledge and felt confident in attempting these skills in lab and outside of the classroom.”

Can you share any real-world success stories from students?

Several former students have emailed me to share how impressed their clinical preceptors were with their infusion therapy knowledge and technical skill. Many expressed a great appreciation in being able to perform blood draws and IV starts successfully, often ahead of peers and on their first attempt.

How would you compare confidence levels now to the first cohort?

When comparing confidence levels from now to the first cohort, I found that the 2021 cohort was enthusiastic and appreciative, but by 2025, students are entering the course with greater expectations and leaving with higher confidence and clinical readiness. The consistent structure and skill-building have paid off.

What is the biggest challenge for students?

The biggest challenge students find is fitting the course into busy nursing schedules, especially within the 1+2+1 program structure, and coordinating with 3 partner schools can be tricky. But students continually express how worthwhile the course is, and students who have taken it strongly encourage their peers to try and fit it into their schedules, when possible.

“Which resources have you found most valuable in teaching this course?”

The FIT modules, INS Standards, hands-on resources for skills practice, and Lisa Gorski’s textbook remain the foundation of the course. These evidence-based resources ensure students are prepared to meet current and evolving clinical standards.

What are your hopes for the future of infusion therapy education at Siena and beyond?

I hope NURS 341 becomes a required course and continues to be offered. Infusion therapy is too essential to be optional. More broadly, I hope other nursing programs will recognize the value of early, in-depth training in this area.

What advice would you give other nursing programs?

The advice I would give to other nursing programs is to:

1. Create the course for your students – Students are asking for it.
2. Use FIT modules and INS Standards – the gold standard for infusion education.
3. Incorporate as much hands-on practice as possible – it builds competence and confidence.

How has teaching this course shaped you as an educator?

Creating and teaching this course has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. Seeing students grow, succeed, and feel confident in their practice has brought me great pride. It has also reaffirmed my belief that infusion therapy training is a matter of patient safety and nursing competence. Here is a copy of my retirement video that says it all.

What is your message to nursing students about infusion therapy?

I strongly encourage students to take the course if it is available. If not, seek out infusion therapy or phlebotomy training in any way you can. Mastering these skills early not only makes you a better nurse but directly improves patient care.

(As of this fall 2025, Siena College is now Siena University.)

About the Author
Rosemarie R. VanPatten, PhD, RN, Caritas Coach^©, is a recently retired tenured associate professor of nursing at Siena University in Loudonville, New York, currently serving as adjunct faculty. With 40+ years of clinical experience and 21 years in nursing education, she is passionate about empowering future nurses with skills that matter. Her expertise spans med-surg, IV therapy, post-anesthesia care unit (PACU), and public health nursing. She is a proud Air National Guard veteran and has levels 1-3 training in Healing Touch.

To educators and administrators: The demand is real. The impact is measurable. Infusion therapy education should no longer be optional.

The post Evolving Excellence: How an Infusion Therapy Elective is Transforming Nursing Education appeared first on INS.

As part of our new Leadership Profile series, INS is highlighting members of the INS and INCC Boards of Directors to offer readers insight into their professional journeys and contributions to the association. We begin with Andrew Walker, BSN, RN, CRNI®, PCCN, VA-BC, Secretary-Treasurer of the INS Board of Directors. Mr. Walker serves as Clinical Practice Leader of Vascular Access and Infusion Therapy at UnityPoint Health Meriter, a medium-sized community hospital within a larger health system, where he provides leadership and expertise in advancing infusion therapy and vascular access practices for the adult population.

Mr. Walker currently serves as Clinical Practice Leader of Vascular Access and Infusion Therapy at UnityPoint Health Meriter, a community hospital within a larger health system. In this role, he provides leadership and expertise in advancing infusion therapy and vascular access practices for adult patients, ensuring that evidence-based care drives daily practice.

His connection to INS began through the INS Infusion Therapy Standards of Practice (Standards), which he relied on as an essential guide for clinical decision-making early in his career. Over time, his engagement deepened. Mr. Walker secured hospital foundation grants to support CRNI® certification for his vascular access team, attended his first INS Annual Meeting in 2018, and, in 2024, was elected Secretary-Treasurer of the Board of Directors.

Reflecting on his decision to serve, Mr. Walker shared that he wanted to broaden his reach. “I wanted to be part of something bigger than my own vascular access team and infusion therapy practices. I was interested in expanding my knowledge base and contributing to a nursing organization at a higher level,” he said. Inspired by conference speakers and colleagues, he viewed Board service as a way to advance both the specialty and the Society.

From the Standards and the Journal of Infusion Nursing to certification and national conferences, Mr. Walker credits INS with playing a central role in his professional growth.

Looking ahead, he envisions a Board that is both diverse and highly engaged, with visible leadership at conferences and local events. He encourages infusion nurses seeking professional development to “attend conferences, read the Journal of Infusion Nursing, and pursue certification.”

Beyond his professional responsibilities, Mr. Walker enjoys skateboarding—a pastime that often surprises colleagues. At the 2024 INS Annual Meeting in Kansas City, he even brought a fellow peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) nurse along, and the two carved out time after sessions to skate together — “thankfully without injury!”

Through his expertise, commitment, and enthusiasm, Andrew Walker demonstrates the leadership and vision that continue to drive the mission of the Infusion Nurses Society forward.

The post Leadership Profile: Andrew Walker, BSN, RN, CRNI®, PCCN, VA-BC appeared first on INS.

Health care has never been a single-discipline effort. While nurses are often the constant presence at the bedside, the quality of care we provide is amplified when we work seamlessly with other disciplines—physicians, pharmacists, therapists, case managers, dietitians, and others. At the heart of excellent patient outcomes is not only the skill of each profession but also the strength of our collaboration.

Nurses bring a unique lens to patient care: we see the whole picture, often anticipating needs and advocating for patients in ways that ensure safety and dignity. But this perspective is only strengthened when paired with the expertise of others. Collaboration transforms individual excellence into collective achievement. When we exchange knowledge, align care plans, and share accountability, patients benefit from a more holistic approach that addresses both immediate needs and long-term goals.

Because I have been in home infusion for more than 30 years, I know firsthand that nurses often feel alone when they step into a patient’s home. Unlike the hospital, there are no colleagues down the hall, no rapid response team just a button away. It’s just the nurse, the patient, and the family—sometimes in environments that are unpredictable, resource-limited, or emotionally charged. That sense of isolation can be real. Yet, what has sustained me and so many of my colleagues is the knowledge that even when we are physically alone, we are never truly without a team.

Behind every successful home visit stands a network of disciplines—physicians, pharmacists, therapists, social workers, sales liaisons, operations managers, and reimbursement specialists—working in concert to support both the nurse and the patient. The Infusion Nurses Society’s (INS’) Infusion Therapy Standards of Practice reinforce this reality. Our INS Standards remind us that infusion therapy is safest and most effective when approached through a collaborative, evidence-based framework. These standards provide the foundation for infusion practice, ensuring that while the nurse may enter the home independently, their care is based on evidenced-based nursing practice.
In acute care settings, interdisciplinary teams are visible in the form of daily rounds and shared decision-making. In home health and home infusion, collaboration often happens more fluidly—and sometimes more creatively—because we are caring for patients in their own environments. Nurses partner closely with physicians who may be remote, pharmacists who customize infusion regimens, therapists who restore independence, and case managers who ensure resources are aligned. Not only do we partner with other clinicians, we also partner with our non-clinical colleagues, whose behind-the-scenes efforts—ensuring authorizations, managing supplies, coordinating schedules—make safe and timely care possible.

When a nurse enters the home, it may appear as though they are practicing independently. But in reality, every clinical decision is supported by the collective knowledge of the care team. The pharmacist who tailored the infusion protocol, the provider who reviewed the lab results, the case manager who secured resources, and the INS Standards that guide best practice—all of them walk into that home with the nurse, even if unseen.
In my own practice, I’ve experienced the relief of quickly reaching a pharmacist when a patient experienced a reaction mid-infusion, and the reassurance of knowing a provider trusted my assessment enough to adjust therapy over the phone. These moments remind us that true collaboration extends beyond physical proximity. It is a mindset: the nurse is never working in isolation, but rather as part of an intricate web of professionals aligned toward the same goal: patients’ well-being.

If collaboration is the “what,” communication is the “how.” For the home health infusion nurse, communication is not optional—it is a lifeline. Without the ability to quickly reach the right team member, a nurse can feel the full weight of being alone in a patient’s home. With it, that same nurse can feel empowered, supported, and confident in navigating even the most complex scenarios.

Technology helps, but human connection remains at the core. A secure text from pharmacy confirming a dose adjustment, a late-night phone call to a provider to prevent an emergency room (ER) visit, a quick debrief with therapy after noticing a change in mobility—these exchanges bridge the gap between disciplines and dissolve the feeling of isolation. Nurses become the “connective tissue” of the team, translating clinical language into family understanding and ensuring that every discipline’s input becomes part of a unified plan of care. The INS Standards emphasize the importance of accurate documentation and communication, serving as both a professional obligation and a patient-safety imperative.

The best evidence that nurses are never truly alone is found in the outcomes we achieve together. In home infusion, interdisciplinary collaboration leads to fewer unplanned hospitalizations, improved functional recovery, and greater patient satisfaction. In home infusion, the health care team, including the nurse, pharmacist, pharmacy technician, clinical liaison, dietician, and provider, ensures adherence, reduces catheter-related complications, and enhances quality of life. These results echo what the INS Standards champion: that safe, high-quality infusion care is achieved through competence, communication, and collaboration.

When a nurse notices early signs of infection and the pharmacist immediately adjusts the therapy, or when physical therapy recommendations prevent a fall that could have led to readmission, the outcomes speak for themselves. These successes are not the result of any one discipline acting independently, but rather of a coordinated team extending its reach through the nurse at the bedside—or in this case, at the kitchen table or living room recliner.

As health care continues its shift into the home, collaboration across disciplines will only grow in importance. Patients are living longer with more complex conditions, and their needs cannot be met by any single team member. Nurses are uniquely positioned to lead this evolution, modeling the kind of collaboration that reassures patients and families: even though one clinician may enter the home, a whole team stands behind them.

Our challenge, and our opportunity, is to keep strengthening the systems, technologies, and relationships that prevent nurses from ever feeling isolated. By embracing communication, adhering to standards of practice, and honoring the expertise of our colleagues across disciplines, we ensure that the patient’s home is not a place of professional solitude, but a place where the full power of interdisciplinary care comes to life.

Because in the end, while a nurse may walk into the home alone, they never practice alone—and it is that truth, amplified by collaboration and guided by the INS Standards of Practice, which makes all the difference in the outcomes we achieve.

The post Never Alone: The Power of Collaboration in Infusion Nursing appeared first on INS.