The Advanced Practice Provider (APP) group is a dynamic, talented, and diverse team of board-certified acute care nurse practitioners (ACNPs) and physician assistants (PAs) dedicated to providing high-quality, person-centered, compassionate care.
Each quarter, we recognize one of our APPs who has gone above and beyond for their team and patients.
Congratulations to our APP of the Quarter, Irakli Shengelia!
Physician Assistant
Irakli Shengelia was born in Georgia when it was part of the USSR. After graduating from secondary school, he served in the Soviet Army as a medic prior to attending Tbilisi State Medical University where he studied medicine. He immigrated to the United States in 1993 before completing his studies. After arriving in the U.S., he enrolled in a nursing program at Southeastern Community College in West Burlington, Iowa, where he received his LPN diploma in 1996. In 2002 he completed an Associate Degree in Nursing and Bachelor of Science in liberal studies at Excelsior College in Albany, NY. As a nurse, he worked in multiple areas including IV therapy, stepdown units, ICU, ER, and OR, gaining vast knowledge and experience.
In 2005 he was accepted to the Saint Louis University Physician Assistant Program which he successfully completed in 2008. As a Physician Assistant he worked at Missouri Baptist Medical Center in Critical Care and Comprehensive Cardiovascular Consultants, Inc. He joined the WashU Medicine Department of Anesthesiology in 2014, and he has been working with the Division of Critical Care Medicine while caring for critically ill patients across many units and hospitals within BJC system. Currently, he spends most of his time at Christian Hospital Northeast and Progress West Hospital.
Irakli is very grateful for the opportunity to work with amazing people while doing something he loves. Every day after work he looks forward to going home where he can spend time with his family. He has been married to Rebecca for 30 years. He is a proud father to three sons and a proud grandfather to one grandson.
Irakli’s hobbies include international travel, playing soccer, chess, piano, listening to music, reading, and spending time with friends and family while sampling good food and wine.
Irakli was named APP of the Quarter in September 2026. Here is what his nominator had to say:
“Irakli did an exceptional job caring for a critically ill patient whose condition continued to deteriorate despite aggressive treatment. His thorough bedside ultrasound helped identify previously unrecognized intra-abdominal bleeding, a finding later supported by a significant drop in hemoglobin and escalating vasopressor requirements. Just as importantly, Irakli approached the patient’s family with thoughtfulness and compassion, helping guide a difficult conversation about transitioning to comfort-focused care. Because of his clinical judgment and compassionate care, the patient was able to spend meaningful time with family and ultimately pass away peacefully that evening.”
Congratulations, Irakli, on this department achievement!
View previous awardees
Adam Sampson, DMSc, PA-C
Physician Assistant
Department of Anesthesiology APP of the Quarter: March 2024
Adam Sampson, DMSc, PA-C, is a physician assistant who joined the Department of Anesthesiology in 2017 as a new graduate. Prior to becoming a PA, Adam was a respiratory therapist and shift coordinator at Barnes-Jewish Hospital (BJH), and then a respiratory therapy supervisor at St. Louis Children’s Hospital working in the NICU on high risk neonatal transport. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy in 2007, a Master of Arts in Organizational Management in 2009, a Master of Physician Assistant Studies in 2017, and a Doctor of Medical Science in 2021.
In his free time, you can find Adam working on his artwork (some of which is displayed in 8200 ICU), birding in places like Costa Rica, or competing in national volleyball tournaments.
Adam was named Q1 2024 APP of the Quarter!
His nominator says that he is an invaluable member of the CTI nightshift, praised for his expertise and supportiveness by both colleagues and leadership. He excels as a mentor, consistently aiding new providers and nurses. Adam’s proactive approach to workflow improvements and dedication to team well-being make him a pleasure to work with, and his presence on the nightshift ensures a smoother experience for all.
Sean Miller, PA-C
Physician Assistant
Department of Anesthesiology APP of the Quarter: January 2024
Sean Miller has been working in medicine for the past 18 years. He began working as a Paramedic for both rural and suburban EMS districts. He spent two years of his EMS career with a focus on critical care pediatric transport with St. Louis Children’s Hospital. He later entered St. Louis University’s Physician Assistant Program where he earned his Master of Medical Science (MMS) degree in 2014.
He first gained experience as a PA in primary care outpatient medicine but later transitioned to the ER. He completed an ER fellowship and remained with the ER for additional training. After completing his ER training, he entered Urgent Care medicine where he has spent the bulk of his career. Most recently, Sean’s drive for professional growth allowed him to begin work at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis in the Cardiothoracic ICU. When not working at WashU he returns to SLU as an Adjunct Faculty member providing lectures in EKG analysis while co-managing the orthopedic, cardiac, and GU/Renal modules. In 2023, he began operating Rapid Med Ed, LLC, which is a St. Louis-based training organization for all AHA courses and much more. He and his wife have 3 growing boys ages 10, 8, and 6. They all enjoy playing UNO and traveling to the beach for much-needed relaxation. Fun fact, he has enjoyed Martial Arts for over 25 years and currently holds a 4th degree black belt!
Sean was named Q4 2023 APP of the Quarter!
His nominator says, “Sean undeniably deserves the APP of the quarter award for his relentless commitment to personal growth and improvement. He consistently strives to enhance his skills and knowledge, demonstrating a remarkable dedication to self-betterment. Sean’s infectious smile has become a symbol of positivity within the group, uplifting everyone around him. Beyond his professional achievements, it’s his warm and approachable demeanor that sets him apart. In any situation, Sean brings a genuine sense of warmth that fosters a collaborative and supportive environment. His ability to radiate positivity and create a welcoming atmosphere is truly commendable, making him not only an exceptional friend but also a source of inspiration for others.”
Department of Anesthesiology Featured Member: April 2025
Sean has spent the past 18 years working in medicine. He began as a paramedic, including two years focused on critical care pediatric transport at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. In 2014, he earned his Master of Medical Science (MMS) degree from the St. Louis University Physician Assistant Program. After gaining primary care experience, he transitioned to emergency medicine, completed an APP fellowship, and spent most of his PA career in urgent care.
In 2023, Sean joined WashU Medicine, working in the Cardiothoracic ICU. Alongside his clinical work, he serves as an adjunct faculty member at SLU, teaching EKG analysis and other medical topics. He also operates Rapid Med Ed, LLC, a St. Louis-based training organization offering AHA provider courses and CPR/First Aid.
Sean and his wife have three sons (ages 11, 9, and 7), and they enjoy playing UNO and traveling to the beach. A martial arts enthusiast for over 25 years, Sean holds a 4th-degree black belt.
Nicky Schweiss, ACNP
Nurse Practitioner
Department of Anesthesiology APP of the Quarter: October 2023
Nicky is one of the APP Leads for the 56/82 CTICUs. She graduated from Goldfarb School of Nursing AGACNP program in 2017. Before becoming an NP, Nicky worked the previous 12 years as a bedside nurse in 56ICU at BJH. Her passion is heart failure and mechanical life support. Outside of work, Nicky loves spending time with her husband and three children at the lake and family farm in Ste Genevieve.
Nicky was named the Q3 2023 APP of the Quarter!
Her nominator says, “Nicky’s dedication, commitment, and positive influence set a high standard for our group. She’s always there to support her colleagues and works tirelessly to improve our CTICU.”
Michelle Bloom, MSN, ACNP-BC
Lead Nurse Practitioner, Memorial Hospital Belleville
Department of Anesthesiology APP of the Quarter: June 2023
Michelle joined the Department of Anesthesiology in 2015 as a nurse practitioner (NP) with critical care medicine. Her NP career initially began in 4400 Surgical/Burn/Trauma ICU but with the growth of the division, her career also expanded to 7800 SICU, eICU, Memorial Hospital Belleville, 8200 COVID ECMO, and a small amount of time at Christian Hospital Northeast to provide additional support during the COVID pandemic. Additionally, in 2019 she accepted an APP Leadership position at Memorial Hospital, Belleville.
Michelle says she is “grateful for the opportunity to take care of patients and families during some of the darkest days of their lives”, citing this as “a constant reminder that both humbles and inspires me to be grateful for everything I have each day.”
Within our department, she finds great joy in the expansion of our critical care APP group, citing these new opportunities to learn and work alongside such a diverse group of highly intelligent, culturally diverse, and engaged colleagues as a personal motivator to continue to improve her practice each day.
Michelle was named the Q2 2023 APP of the Quarter! Her nominator says, “Michelle is a great teammate, leader, patient advocate, and friend. She truly cares about our ICU as one that not only delivers quality care to our patients, but that’s great to work in as well.”
Outside of work, Michelle is engaged with her spouse, young family (children ages 8, 5, 2), and dog. She has newly adopted yoga as a daily practice both to challenge her body physically and to release some of the emotional stress brought on by caring for critically ill patients.
Fun fact, Michelle grew up in a small town in southern Illinois – so small that the entire town’s population is less than half that of the BJH patient bed capacity.
Maureen Flanagan, RN, MSN
Nurse Practitioner
Department of Anesthesiology APP of the Quarter: December 2022
Maureen Flanagan (She/Her) is a nurse practitioner from Dallas, Texas. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Washington University in St. Louis in 2014 and went on to earn her RN and MSN from Yale University in 2017. She has been practicing in the Surgical ICUs here at BJH since her graduation in 2017. In her free time, she loves exploring new places around the world, cooking new pasta recipes, and spending time with her dog, Luka.
Maureen was named the Q4 2022 APP of the Quarter! Her nominator says, “Maureen works hard in difficult situations and goes above & beyond to provide great care for her patients. She’s smart and is a true team player.”
Josh Fender, MSN, AGACNP-BC, CCRN, CNL, NREMT-P
Nurse Practitioner
Department of Anesthesiology APP of the Quarter: September 2022
Joshua Fender (He/Him) has been an APP with the department since 2021. He has a BS in Fire Paramedicine from Lindenwood University. He obtained his MSN with an emphasis on quality improvement informatics, education, and leadership from Sant Louis University. Josh recently graduated with his AGACNP post-master’s certificate from Goldfarb School of Nursing. He has been a recipient of St. Louis Magazine’s Excellence in Nursing and March of Dimes Nurse of the Year. In his free time, you can find him mushroom hunting, cooking, and spending time with his partner Eric and their two golden doodles Riley and Zion.
Josh was named the Q3 2022 APP of the Quarter!
His nominator says, “Josh is an incredible team player. He is always helping with schedule changes and picking up extra moonlighting. He is always positive and easy to work with. He will lend a helping hand without being asked and he provides compassionate care to his patients.”
Clair Visconti, PA-C
Physician Assistant
Department of Anesthesiology APP of the Quarter: June 2022
Clair Visconti is a Physician Assistant from Alton, Illinois. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences from the University of Missouri in 2016, and then earned a master’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri in December of 2019. Clair has been with the Department of Anesthesiology at WashU for two years.
From the first time she stepped foot in an ICU as a student, Clair has been passionate about critical care. She is committed to providing thoughtful and compassionate care for her patients, and is dedicated to her continued education. She loves being able to work together with her colleagues as a team.
Clair was named the Q2 2022 APP of the Quarter!
Her nominators say:
“Clair is exceptional. She consistently shows genuine dedication to caring for patients, being a team member, picking up/changing her schedule to fill staffing gaps, and being an overall exceptional APP! Clair consistently seeks to advance her knowledge and has been instrumental in advocating for the patients at CH. I can always count on Clair and proud to have her as a colleague!”
“Clair is always willing to help the group. She is passionate about making changes at CHNE, and offers solutions. It is exciting to watch her confidence grow in such a challenging environment. I am very proud of her growth as a member of the APP group at CHNE!”
Kevin Stuckey, MMS PA-C
Physician Assistant
Department of Anesthesiology APP of the Quarter: April 2022
Kevin began his career in healthcare in 2005 at Barnes-Jewish Hospital as a Respiratory Therapist, followed by Physician Assistant school at Saint Louis University—graduating in 2015. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my APP career with full-time work in Family Medicine, Emergency Medicine, and now Critical Care Medicine,” says Kevin. “Each area has helped me to grow my knowledge of medicine. I truly love my career and hope to share this passion with my surrounding peers and the community we serve.” In his free time, he enjoys camping, hiking, reading, watching re-runs of old TV shows and movies, and most of all: spending time with his family. He has a wonderful family including a beautiful wife, three daughters, three cats, and a wonderfully talented Australian Shepherd.
Kevin was named the Q1 2022 APP of the Quarter! “Kevin has been an excellent addition to our critical care team. Despite having previous experience, he does not hesitate to ask for advice on topics he is not familiar with. He is always willing to help out when needed and provides exemplary bedside manner with not only patients but their family members as well. He somehow manages to stay calm despite any type of situation and has been wonderful to work with.” Congratulations, Kevin!
Nicole Cassell, ANCP
Nurse Practitioner
Department of Anesthesiology APP of the Quarter: October 2021
Nicole joined the department in 2013 after graduating from Goldfarb School of Nursing as an Acute Care Nurse practitioner. Nicole is currently the lead APP at Christian Hospital Northeast ICU. Outside of work, she enjoys home improvement projects, gardening, hiking, and spending time with her son, Blake, and daughter, Taylor.
Nicole was named the Q3 2021 APP of the Quarter for her dedication, resourcefulness, and support of her fellow colleagues. Congratulations, Nicole!
Melissa Prewitt, AGACNP-BC
Nurse Practitioner
Department of Anesthesiology APP of the Quarter: June 2021
Melissa graduated with a BSN from the University of Arkansas, Fort Smith, in 2011 and obtained her MSN, Adult Gero Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) from the University of Southern Indiana, Evansville, in 2020. She has practiced as an RN in the SICU at Northwest Medical Center, Springdale, Arkansas, from 2011-2013 and the CVICU at Washington Regional Medical Center, Fayetteville, from 2013-2020. While at Washington Regional, Melissa served as Nurse Residency Facilitator and Critical Care Coordinator. Melissa joined the APP group in September 2020 and staff in the CTICUs.
Melissa was named the Q2 2021 APP of the Quarter! Her nominator says, “She is highly motivated and took initiative by looking up patients before her shifts and studying at home with any procedures or devices she wasn’t familiar with. You can tell she cares about her patients and is always advocating for them. She also is a great team player, and I know I can always count on her if I need help.”