Christine Riley, PhD is a dedicated researcher and nurse practitioner specializing in pediatric cardiac critical care. She is an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences. She holds a Bachelor of Nursing degree from Johns Hopkins University, a Master's degree from the University of Pennsylvania, and completed her PhD at George Washington University. Dr. Riley’s academic journey includes earning a Bachelor of Science in Genetics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison before entering the field of pediatric critical care in 2005.

            Dr. Riley’s evolving program of research centers on identifying modifiable risk-factors for postoperative cardiac arrest. Using the theoretical foundation of Selye’s General Adaptation Syndrome, she identified cumulative stress encountered by vulnerable infants in the clinical environment as a possible unexplored, potentially modifiable risk-factor for postoperative cardiac arrest. Previously, no measure existed to quantify stress in this distinctly vulnerable population, limiting the ability to target interventions to mitigate stress and impact outcomes. Dr. Riley’s dissertation focused on identification and quantification of the unique stressors encountered by infants with congenital heart disease in two care environments (cardiac intensive care unit and operating room) and three phases of care (preoperative, operative, postoperative). Her program of research has been supported by extramural funding from the American Heart Association/Children’s Heart Foundation Predoctoral Fellowship, the PEO International Scholar Award, and Sigma Theta Tau International.

            With nearly two decades of experience, Dr. Riley is committed to advancing patient care through evidence-based practice and interdisciplinary collaboration. She is passionate about mentoring future healthcare professionals and contributing to research that enhances outcomes for critically ill children and their families. Dr. Riley’s dedication to the field of pediatric cardiac critical care is exemplified by her ongoing efforts to integrate scientific inquiry into clinical practice, ensuring the highest standards of care for her patients.