PBM Nursing Specialty
SABM PBM Nursing Specialty Announcement
We have exciting news that we are thrilled to share with you!
On June 17, 2026, the American Nurses Association Board of Directors recognized patient blood management nursing as a nursing specialty, approved the submitted patient blood management nursing scope of practice statement, and acknowledged the specialty standards and accompanying competencies.
This is a landmark achievement for the PBM nursing community — and it would not have been possible without the support of SABM membership.
The roots of this initiative began many years ago, thanks to the work and determination of nurses who recognized the value of PBM and worked diligently to advance it.
What Just Happened
The ANA is the largest professional nursing organization in the United States, representing the interests of the nation’s 5 million registered nurses. When the ANA recognizes a specialty, it signals to the entire healthcare community that this area of practice has a defined body of knowledge, a clear professional identity, and standards that elevate care for patients.
In 2021, a workgroup of nurses from SABM entered a partnership with the ANA to articulate the uniqueness and the importance of the work we do.
Today, Patient Blood Management nursing has that recognition.
At the heart of this endorsement is the PBM Nursing Scope and Standards of Practice — a comprehensive document developed by a dedicated volunteer workgroup of SABM nurses. This document defines the knowledge, skills, responsibilities, and professional expectations that characterize PBM nursing practice. It is the foundation upon which our specialty now stands.
To the Workgroup: Thank You
Christine Cahill, Elora Thorpe, Heather Mingo, Joshua Ozawa Moriello, Kelly Martin, Mary Ann Sromoski, Sarah Walbolt, and Becky Rock.
These nurses volunteered countless hours to research, write, review, and refine a document that will shape the PBM nurse specialty for years to come. They did it not for personal recognition, but because they believe — as nurses worldwide do — that Patient Blood Management nursing deserves promotion and recognition.
The workgroup was aided by additional contributors, including Deb Tolich, and countless others who provided input, advice, and validation.
Of course, an immense note of thanks is given to Sherri Ozawa who helped inspired this initiative almost 18 years ago and championed it throughout. As a founder of SABM, global leader, and mentor to so many others, Sherri truly exemplifies excellence in PBM Nursing.
Please join us in thanking them.
To our Membership: Thank You
SABM is proud to celebrate this success, which reflects the collective commitment of our society. Led by our nursing members and championed by the Board of Directors and colleagues from across all disciplines, this achievement highlights the power of collaboration in advancing our shared goals.
What This Means for You
If you are a nurse working in PBM, this recognition is for you. Here is what it means in practical terms:
- Your specialty is officially recognized. PBM nursing has a formal identity within the nursing profession, endorsed by the ANA.
- A Scope and Standards document defines your practice. For the first time, there is a clear, published framework for what PBM nursing is and what it requires.
- SABM is your professional home. As the overarching association for this specialty, SABM will set standards for continuing education, professional development, and more.
- Certification is coming. SABM is already working toward establishing a formal certification credential for PBM nurses — a qualifying exam that will allow you to demonstrate your expertise and advance your career.
What Comes Next
The PBM Nursing Scope and Standards of Practice will be published in an official ANA journal, further cementing this recognition within the broader nursing community. We will share details on the publication timeline as they become available.
Further information will be made available at the upcoming SABM 2026 Annual Meeting—consider attending to learn more and network with others! More information is available here: Annual Meeting – SABM . Additionally, look forward to virtual ‘Town Hall’ events to be scheduled in the fall.
Efforts will be made to connect with nurses and nursing associations globally to advance this recognition worldwide.
In the months ahead, SABM will continue its work toward launching a certification program for PBM nurses. We will keep you informed at every step.
Help Us Spread the Word
Notify your workplace and your colleagues about this new achievement.
Encourage others to pursue PBM Nursing and to help advance this specialty.
Promote this achievement widely in your network and social media circles.
Learn More
The PBM Nursing Scope and Standards of Practice will be made available soon—stay tuned for your chance to access.
This is a proud moment for SABM, for the volunteer workgroup, and for every nurse who has ever fought for safer, smarter, evidence-based blood management for their patients.
Thank you to the entire PBM community for being part of this achievement.
With gratitude,
Matthew Warner MD
President
Becky Rock RN
President-Elect
Society for the Advancement of Patient Blood Management (SABM)