Dawn-Marie Gieck, MS, RN, NP-BC, CMCE

Dawn-Marie Gieck is a highly experienced Nurse Practitioner and U.S. Navy veteran, currently providing primary care for veterans at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs in New Orleans, Louisiana. Originally from Long Island, New York, she served eight years in the Navy, including active duty and reserves, specializing in avionics electronics and participating in Operation Desert Storm/Shield. Following her military service, Dawn-Marie pursued nursing, earning her B.S. in Nursing from Cumberland University, graduating Cum Laude in 2001, and later a Master of Science in Nursing from Loyola University New Orleans in 2012. Her broad background, cultural sensitivity, and extensive clinical training have shaped her into a skilled, adaptable provider with a global perspective.

Throughout her career, Dawn-Marie has worked exclusively in high-acuity settings, including trauma, ICU, cardiac care, and organ transplant units, building a reputation for excellence under pressure. She played a critical role during Hurricane Katrina, implementing emergency measures in the Intensive Care Unit and contributing to its reopening under challenging conditions. Known for her ability to mentor and precept new nurses, she emphasizes anticipation and preparation for worst-case scenarios, instilling confidence and clinical readiness in those she trains. Her dedication to patient safety and advocacy has earned her recognition both in her hospitals and in publications covering Katrina’s relief efforts.

Board-certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, Dawn-Marie holds certifications in Physical Capacity Profiles and as a medical examiner for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. She is an active member of multiple professional organizations, including the Louisiana Association of Nurse Practitioners and Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. Her professional interests encompass veteran-centered care, health promotion, disease prevention, wellness, urgent care, occupational health, and rehabilitation. Through her work, Dawn-Marie continues to provide compassionate, expert care while inspiring confidence and excellence among her colleagues and patients alike.

• Loyola University New Orleans - MSN

• National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners
• Physical Capacity Profile Testing

• Who's Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges?
• Good Conduct Award ( Department of the Navy)
• National Defense Service Metal
• Navy Unit Commendation
• Southwest Asia Service Medal with Bronze Star
• United States Navy Letter of Commendation
• Alpha Chi, Tennessee Lambda Chapter
• Honor Society of Nursing-Sigma Theta Tau International XI PSI-at-Large Chapter
• Cum Laude

• American Academy of Nurse Practitioners
• Louisiana Association of Nurse Practitioners

Dawn-Marie Gieck has been featured in several books chronicling the impact of Hurricane Katrina, including a work by Sherry Fink that detailed the experiences of hospital staff during the storm. Gieck was interviewed in an informal setting and, although she was unaware the conversation would be used for a publication, portions of her remarks were included. She has noted that some statements were not fully captured as she intended. These works explore the challenges faced by ICU nurses during the crisis, including those involving her preceptor and colleagues who were accused of euthanasia.