Amanda Tam, MSN, RN, CCRN, NPD-BC
For Amanda Tam, nursing is a journey of continuous learning, innovation, and improving care for children and families. Throughout her career, she has combined clinical expertise with a passion for education, evidence-based practice, and professional development to create meaningful improvements in pediatric healthcare. As a 2026 Illinois Nurses Foundation 40 Under 40 Awardee, Amanda continues to strengthen the nursing profession by transforming knowledge into action and empowering nurses to provide the highest quality care.
A Commitment to Lifelong Learning
Amanda earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from North Park University before completing her Master of Science in Nursing in Healthcare Systems and Leadership at Lewis University. She began her career in pediatric critical care, where caring for children with complex medical needs strengthened her commitment to clinical excellence and inspired her passion for improving healthcare systems.
As her career evolved, Amanda discovered a calling in nursing professional development, quality improvement, and evidence-based practice. Today, she serves as a Nursing Professional Development Specialist in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at Advocate Children’s Hospital, where she supports nurses while helping advance safe, high-quality care. Her commitment to professional growth is reflected in her dual certifications in Pediatric Critical Care and Nursing Professional Development, and she is currently pursuing her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree as a Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist at the University of Missouri.
Turning Evidence into Better Care
Amanda is passionate about translating research into practical solutions that improve patient outcomes while strengthening nursing practice. She believes education and evidence-based care go hand in hand, equipping nurses with the confidence, knowledge, and critical thinking skills needed to care for some of healthcare’s most vulnerable patients.
Through her work, Amanda has led numerous initiatives focused on quality improvement and professional development, always striving to create sustainable changes that benefit children, families, and healthcare teams. Her dedication to continuous improvement reflects her belief that every advancement in nursing practice has the potential to improve lives.
Creating Lasting Change for Children and Families
One of Amanda’s most meaningful accomplishments has been co-leading the Difficult Intravenous Access (DIVA) and Ultrasound-Guided Peripheral IV Program, an initiative that improved vascular access outcomes while reducing the need for multiple IV attempts in pediatric patients. The experience not only strengthened patient care but also demonstrated the powerful impact evidence-based practice can have on clinical outcomes.
Working alongside a Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist during this initiative further inspired Amanda’s professional journey and reaffirmed her goal of becoming a Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist herself. She is motivated by the opportunity to improve healthcare on a broader scale, creating safer systems, developing stronger nursing teams, and ensuring children and families receive the exceptional care they deserve.
The Illinois Nurses Foundation proudly recognizes Amanda Tam as a 2026 40 Under 40 Awardee for her dedication to pediatric nursing, evidence-based practice, nursing professional development, and advancing quality care. Through her commitment to lifelong learning and clinical innovation, she continues to improve outcomes for children while inspiring the next generation of pediatric nurse leaders.
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