APP of the Quarter

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.

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."

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!

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!"

Trish graduated from the ACNP program at Saint Louis University and joined the department in 2012 and is one of the Leadership APP's for 44ICU and 78ICU. In addition to her work in the Department of Anesthesiology, she serves in the Air Force Reserve at Scott Air Force Base. Her dog, Lexi, is certified as a therapy dog and Trish enjoys patient and staff visits with her. For fun, Trish enjoys traveling and hiking and is looking forward to an upcoming vacation to Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, and Laos.

Trish was named the Q2 2020 APP of the Quarter! She is an involved leader with excellent clinical skills. Trish is a very dependable, dedicated, and valued member of our group. Congratulations, Trish!