Rapid Response RN

159: Nurse Led Stroke Alert Process with Kat Siaron RN

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0400

"There has to be a better way." We've all thought it. This episode is proof that nurses can be the ones to make it happen.

In this episode, Sarah is joined by Kat Siaron, rapid response nurse and co-author of the RRT STAR study that shows what happens when nurses are empowered to act before a clear stroke diagnosis is made. They walk through a patient case that exposed a dangerous gap in inpatient stroke response, traps like sedation hangover that mask stroke presentations, and how the nurse-led Code Stroke process has drastically improved time to crucial intervention.

You'll hear about the step-by-step workflow, where rapid response nurses and physicians fit in, and how you can advocate for change in your hospital.

Topics discussed in this episode:

The patient case that led to Kat’s RRT STAR study
Why inpatient stroke times lag behind ER stroke times
The consequences of ordering stat CT instead of Code Stroke
Symptoms and prognosis of basilar stroke
The step-by-step Code Stroke process
The rapid response team's role in stroke activation
Results and impact of the study
How they overcame pushback to drive institutional change
Stroke mimics and what to do next
How to advocate for a nurse-led stroke alert at your hospital

Read Kat’s article, “Use of Rapid Response Teams to Expedite Imaging and Treatment for Inpatients With Acute Stroke:”

https://aacnjournals.org/aacnacconline/article-abstract/36/4/317/32912/Use-of-Rapid-Response-Teams-to-Expedite-Imaging?redirectedFrom=fulltext

Mentioned in this episode:

CONNECT 📸 Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therapidresponsern/ 📚 Check out my course: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/learnmore 🧑‍💻Check out my website: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/ 📬 Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/login 🎁 Affiliation and discounts: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/therapidresponsern ✅ Earn CE’s for listening to podcasts through RNegade: https://rnegade.thinkific.com/?ref=d9d541 SAY THANKS 💜Leave a review on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/rapid-response-rn/id1535997752 💚Leave a rating on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/55LQqeDg6XFeixvZLEp4xE ⏱️ To get the FREE Rapid Response RN Assessment Guide and the coupon code for $10 off the cost of the course, message Sarah on Instagram @TheRapidResponseRN and type the word PODCAST! This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique https://www.podcastboutique.com

Listen to the In The Heart of Care Podcast

https://link.cohostpodcasting.com/6598429e-e927-45b0-9b57-7dd34a09d803?d=seASyqjs7

158: What’s Changed in Acute Stroke Care? New AHA Stroke Guidelines with Dr. Prabahkaran

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0400

The stroke guidelines just changed and it’s exciting and nuanced! What you do in the first 30 minutes could drastically change your patient's outcome. In this episode, Dr. Shyam Prabhakaran, neurologist and chief writer of the new 2026 AHA Stroke Guidelines, explains what's changed and how these guidelines are changing practice at the bedside.

Stroke treatment decisions are getting faster, more nuanced, and more imaging-driven. Inclusion/exclusion criteria and whether to give thrombolytics, who is a candidate for thrombectomy, and when to touch the blood pressure have all been updated. Know the updates before your next stroke alert!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Introducing the classic extended window patient case
Thrombolytics vs. thrombectomy explained
EMS destination decision: Choosing primary vs. comprehensive stroke center
How reperfusion time windows have changed
Advanced imaging: ASPECTS and thrombectomy eligibility
Treatment options for patients presenting outside of the 4.5 hr window
Blood pressure management recommendations
What nurses should do in the first 15-30 minutes
LVO red flags at the bedside
Pediatric ischemic stroke

Check out the new AHA Stroke Guidelines:

https://newsroom.heart.org/news/new-guideline-expands-stroke-treatment-for-adults-offers-first-pediatric-stroke-guidance

Mentioned in this episode:

Listen to the In The Heart of Care Podcast

https://link.cohostpodcasting.com/6598429e-e927-45b0-9b57-7dd34a09d803?d=seASyqjs7

157: Cracking the ARDS Code: A Deep Dive on ARDS Vent Management Strategies With Melody Bishop RT

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0400

ARDS is one of the more complex syndromes we manage in critical care. More than just pulmonary edema, we are battling stiff lungs, refractory hypoxemia, rising pressures, and frequently making decisions that can either protect the lung or make things worse.

In this episode, I’m joined by respiratory therapist Melody Bishop for a deep dive into ARDS ventilator management through the lens of physiology, evidence, and real bedside practice. We break down what’s actually happening in the lung, why some long-held practices have fallen out of favor, and how nurses and RTs can work together to make more precise, lung-protective decisions.

If ARDS has ever felt like guesswork, this episode will help it make sense.

Topics discussed in this episode:

What ARDS looks like at the alveolar level and why surfactant loss changes everything
How inflammation leads to stiff lungs, poor compliance, and refractory hypoxemia
Why lung-protective ventilation is about avoiding harm, not chasing perfect numbers
Moving beyond tidal volume: how driving pressure reframes vent management
How RTs use compliance trends to judge whether lungs are improving or failing
PEEP selection: why tables are a guide, not the final answer
The physiology behind proning and why it’s one of the few ARDS interventions that saves lives
Why recruitment maneuvers fell out of favor (and what works instead)
What nurses should be watching on the ventilator to catch deterioration early

Connect with Melody and download her free book:

https://melodybishoprt.com/

Mentioned in this episode:

Rapid Response Academy Winter 2026 Cohort

https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/rra

156: When the Body Rejects the Cure: Graft Verses Host Disease with Anthony RN

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0400

A transplant saves a life… but can also make the body attack itself. That's what Graft Versus Host Disease (GVHD) does, and why nurses need to catch it early. You may have never seen it before, but this episode will tell you what it looks like at the bedside and the early clues you can’t afford to miss.

Through a real patient case, Anthony, RN explains why GVHD is easy to overlook, how to think through common differentials, and what matters most when it comes to helping patients stabilize and recover.

Topics discussed in this episode:

CCOT's rapid response model
The patient’s condition weeks after allogenic transplant
Anthony's assessment and what raised red flags
Why early symptoms can get misread or minimized
How Graft Versus Host Disease develops
Why emotional support is crucial to recovery
Acute vs. chronic Graft Versus Host Disease
Important early clues of Graft Versus Host Disease
Priority interventions for Graft Versus Host Disease
How Anthony’s app can help bedside nurses

You can connect with Anthony or learn more about his apps here:

https://thehumblenurse.com/

Mentioned in this episode:

Rapid Response Academy Winter 2026 Cohort

https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/rra

155: Rewinding the Clock: Teamwork That Prevents the Code, With Guest Dr. Oscar Mitchell

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0400

You know those moments when something just “feels off?” That’s when you should trust your instincts and speak up because timing can completely change a patient’s outcome.

In this episode, Sarah is joined by Dr. Oscar Mitchell, Associate Director of the Center for Resuscitation Science and Director of the Medical Rapid Response Team at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. They break down one septic shock case across two timelines: first, when rapid response is called early and there's still time to intervene, and later, when the patient is already crashing.

You’ll hear what a calm, collaborative rapid response call looks like, which signs of deterioration should never be ignored, and how to effectively share your concerns with a provider. This episode is for anyone who might call a rapid response AND for those who respond to emergencies.

Topics discussed in this episode:

Introduction to the patient and the 5PM timeline
What the ideal provider–nurse collaboration looks like
Early signs of deterioration that were missed
Why some nurses hesitate to call rapid response
The patient’s vitals at 10AM and why rapid response was called
Why the documented respiratory rate might not be reliable
Why blood pressure can be misleading
SBAR and CUS frameworks for escalation
Dr. Mitchell’s research on delays in RRT activation and mortality
Early warning signs you should never ignore

https://www.revive-conference.com/

Check out Dr. Mitchell's research here:https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36349290/

Mentioned in this episode:

Rapid Response Academy Winter 2026 Cohort

https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/rra

154: Physiology-Guided Sepsis Resuscitation: ANDROMEDA-SHOCK 2, Dynamic Fluid Responsiveness, and SEP-1 with Guest Jaclyn Bond

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0400

The science is finally catching up to what clinicians have long known: more fluids aren't always the answer to septic shock. In this episode, host Sarah Lorenzini and Jaclyn Bond MSN-LM, MBA-HM explain what the ANDROMEDA-SHOCK 2 trial reveals about physiology-guided sepsis resuscitation and why fixed-volume fluid strategies can lead to avoidable harm.

They break down how dynamic fluid responsiveness testing helps teams stop guessing, and how tools like FloPatch support real-time assessment of carotid flow time and stroke volume. You'll leave with a clearer idea of when to give fluids, when to stop, and how to justify the decision.

Topics discussed in this episode:

The purpose and key findings of the ANDROMEDA-SHOCK 2 study
Why dynamic measures of fluid responsiveness matter more than static vitals
What recent meta-analysis data shows about physiology-guided fluid strategies
Carotid flow time: what it is, how it’s measured, and how it guides decisions
Hemodynamic assessment and bedside limitations
How FloPatch supports real-time assessment so you can make individualized fluid decisions
SEP-1 2026 guideline updates and why it’s better for patients
How to apply these principles to your workflow

Website: www.flosonicsmedical.com

See FloPatch in action: https://hubs.ly/Q03-68Hg0

Mentioned in this episode:

Rapid Response Academy Winter 2026 Cohort

https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/rra

153: Remix: Managing Crashing Pulmonary Embolism Patients

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Pulmonary embolisms don’t always announce themselves... sometimes they ambush.

One minute your patient is walking with physical therapy, the next they’re hypotensive, hypoxic, and coding. This re-released early episode dives deep into why PE patients can look deceptively stable… right up until they aren’t.

In this episode, I revisit one of my earliest case-based teachings on pulmonary embolism, updated with an added segment on vasopressin use in obstructive shock from PE. Through real bedside stories from my time as a rapid response and ER nurse, we break down the physiology behind PE-related collapse, why intubation isn’t always the answer, and how to think through management when the right ventricle is failing in front of you. This is a sobering but essential refresher on one of the most dangerous diagnoses we encounter.

Topics discussed in this episode:

Why pulmonary embolism is a common cause of in-hospital cardiac arrest (even if it’s not common overall)
Classic and subtle PE presentations and why they’re often missed
A real-time rapid response case: stable to crashing in minutes
Risk factors for PE and the anticoagulation double-edged sword
Obstructive shock explained: what’s actually killing the patient
Right ventricular failure, septal bowing, and the spiral of death
Why intubation can worsen outcomes in massive PE
Vasopressors in PE: norepinephrine, epinephrine, and vasopressin
The unique benefits of vasopressin in obstructive shock
Thrombolysis vs. thrombectomy: when TPA helps — and when it’s deadly
Bedside echo findings that point to massive PE
Why PE patients can crash during transport (and what to always bring)
Nursing vigilance, rapid escalation, and activating help early
When perfect care still isn’t enough and the heart of nursing in end-of-life moments

Mentioned in this episode:

Rapid Response Academy Winter 2026 Cohort

https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/rra

152: "Don't Touch That Button!" Respiratory Wisdom, Myth Busting, and Everything Respiratory Therapists Wish Nurses Knew About Ventilation With Guest, Melody Bishop RT

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Some of the most common respiratory myths are still showing up at the bedside. But it's not your fault — most of us were never taught what an oxygenation problem versus a ventilation problem looks like in real time.

In this episode, Melody Bishop RT explains how respiratory therapists think through oxygenation and ventilation to choose the right intervention and recognize when a patient is ready to breathe on their own. We’re calling out the old dogma and myths that can delay treatment and worsen patient outcomes!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Ventilation vs. oxygenation: the core building blocks
V/Q mismatch explained
ABG findings for low-flow vs. high-flow vs. BiPAP
When CO₂ is the problem and the benefits of BiPAP
Key indicators it’s time to intubate and the dangers of waiting
The myth of resting patients on ventilation
How to accurately assess spontaneous breathing trials
COPD, oxygen, and the hypoxic drive myth
What nurses should know about working with RTs

Connect with Melody:

https://melodybishoprt.com/

Mentioned in this episode:

Rapid Response Academy Winter 2026 Cohort

https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/rra

151: Caring Close to Home: How Point-of-Care EEG and Community Innovation Are Changing ICU Care

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Rural nursing is anything but simple. They have limited resources, fewer specialists, and often have to send patients hours away from their families for a higher level of care. But all that is changing as new tech like Zeto brings monitoring right to the bedside and keeps more patients close to home.

In this episode, ICU nurse leader Kristen RN shares how point-of-care EEG has empowered her team to catch subclinical seizures sooner and make faster, more informed clinical decisions. From buy-in to implementation, you'll hear how she advocated for her community and successfully integrated this technology into a small ICU. If you work in a rural or resource-limited facility, don't miss this one!

Topics discussed in this episode:

The unique challenges rural nurses and hospitals face
Why keeping patients close to home matters
How telemedicine and new tech are transforming rural healthcare
Why subclinical seizures are hard to recognize
How Zeto’s spot EEG helps nurses keep more patients close to home
The positive impact on team confidence and patient care
How you can advocate for the tools your community needs

Learn more about Zeto here:

https://zeto-inc.com/

Mentioned in this episode:

Rapid Response Academy Winter 2026 Cohort

https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/rra

150: Sepsis-Induced Cardiomyopathy with Dr. Mahmoud Ibrahim MD

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Your pneumonia patient is hypotensive, tachycardic, and not responding to fluids… what did you miss? It could be sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy, a common under-recognized shock state you could see at the bedside.

In this episode, Dr. Mahmoud Ibrahim MD and host Sarah Lorenzini use a case study to highlight how nurses, intensivists and the ICU team can work together to recognize the signs of sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy early and give patients a better chance at recovery. You'll learn the diagnostic clues that your patient’s heart is in trouble, how to approach controversial treatments like sodium bicarb, and what has to happen before intubation in a dual shock state.

Topics discussed in this episode:

What the initial bedside assessment says about the patient
Treatment priorities for the intensivist and nurse
Signs that point to more than just sepsis
Why fluids aren’t always the answer
Blood pressure management: vasopressors and inotropes
Pathophysiology of sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy
How a sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy diagnosis changes treatment
The vasopressin debate for sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy
Clues your intervention isn’t working and what to do next
How to prepare the patient for high-risk intubation
What you need to know about administering sodium bicarb
Why collaboration matters at every step for patient recovery

Connect with Dr. Ibrahim:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/icuboy_meded/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Dg1ZTyfsN/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@icuboy_meded

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@icuboy_meded

X: https://x.com/icuboy_meded

Learn more about the different phenotypes in sepsis induced cardiomyopathy:

https://journal.chestnet.org/article/S0012-3692(25)05143-8/abstract

Mentioned in this episode:

Rapid Response Academy Winter 2026 Cohort

https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/rra

149: Inside the New 2025 AHA Resuscitation Guidelines: What’s New, What’s Controversial, and Why It Matters with Dr. Ashish Panchal, MD

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Every five years, resuscitation guidelines get a refresh. This year, a few have changed, many have stayed the same, and some are creating major controversy.

In this episode, Dr. Ashish Panchal, Chair of the AHA Emergency Cardiovascular Care Committee, helps us unpack what’s new, what might surprise you, and the science behind each decision. You'll learn why there’s serious debate around epinephrine dosing, what changes matter most for the bedside, and how these updates will change the way you and your team respond to the next code!

Topics discussed in this episode:

The history and development of the AHA Resuscitation Guidelines
Key improvements: algorithms, clear language, and unified care
Big, fundamental changes in the guidelines
How choking management guidelines have changed
The recommended approach for synchronized cardioversion
New guidelines for post-resuscitation care
Why there’s controversy around mechanical CPR and DSD
IV vs. IO access: best practice and key takeaways
The controversy around epinephrine dosing
What these changes mean for nurses and code teams

Listen to E140 with Dr. Ashish Panchal:

https://healthpodcastnetwork.com/episodes/rapid-response-rn/140-resuscitation-then-and-now-how-evidence-shapes-every-beat-with-guest-dr-ashish-panchal-md-phd/

Mentioned in this episode:

AND If you are planning to sit for your CCRN and would like to take the Critical Care Academy CCRN prep course you can visit https://www.ccrnacademy.com and use coupon code RAPID10 to get 10% off the cost of the course!

148: Differentiating Pulmonary Hypertension vs Dilated Cardiomyopathy with Natalie RN

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Differential diagnosis is part physiology, part detective work. Especially in heart failure, where similar vital signs can mean very different things.

In this episode, Natalie RN is back on the show to break down two pediatric cases that looked almost identical on arrival to the ED but their workups led to two very different treatment plans. She shares the assessment findings, diagnostics, and clinical clues that helped them uncover what was really going on.

Learn how to connect the dots and find the right intervention when presentations look identical!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Presentation of two pediatric patients with similar symptoms
Differential diagnosis and early clinical clues
What to look for in your clinical assessment
Pathophysiology of pulmonary hypertension
Pathophysiology of dilated cardiomyopathy
Key physical exam and diagnostic differences
Dilated cardiomyopathy interventions
Why it’s hard to diagnose pulmonary hypertension in the ER
Nurse priorities when managing patients in the CVICU
Managing pulmonary hypertension crises and reducing PVR
Pearls and pitfalls of treating these conditions

Connect with Natalie:

https://www.instagram.com/chatwithnat_rn/

Listen to Chat with Nurse Nat on Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/show/7Jh2qe44KipudVKkdXFwWH

Listen to Chat with Nurse Nat on Apple Podcasts:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chat-with-nurse-nat/id1815541418

Mentioned in this episode:

147: Recognize, Decompress, Stabilize: Managing a Pneumothorax with Trauma Pete

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Every trauma nurse knows this feeling: your stable patient suddenly starts to decompensate and instinct tells you there’s more to the story. Today’s case starts with a stable, post-arrest patient and ends in a full-blown tension pneumothorax.

Hear why this patient went from stable to crashing in minutes, how delayed recognition changed the course of care, what diagnostics and assessments could have caught earlier. Trauma Pete breaks down the tell-tale signs, how it differs from a simple pneumothorax, and why it's so easy to miss in trauma patients.

In this episode, you’ll learn which patients are the most at risk, how to spot tension pneumothorax early, and why having a systematic approach to decompression make all the difference!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Presentation of a stable, post-arrest patient
The patient's rapid decline and first interventions
Why they misread the signs of tension pneumothorax
Pneumothorax in intubated vs. non-intubated patients
The physiology of tension simple vs. tension pneumothorax
Bedside clues and diagnostic signs of tension pneumothorax
Early intervention and treatment priorities
Emergent needle decompression: timing, technique, and follow-up
Chest tube placement and management: tips, troubleshooting, and air leaks

Mentioned in this episode:

Listen to the In The Heart of Care Podcast

https://link.cohostpodcasting.com/6598429e-e927-45b0-9b57-7dd34a09d803?d=seASyqjs7

146: From Alveoli to Aftermath: The Science and Humanity of Pediatric Drowning Care with ER Nurse Amber

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0400

This is one of those cases that tests you in every way as a nurse. A toddler is pulled out of a pool and rushed to the ER, unresponsive and deteriorating fast. Today, Nurse Amber walks us through the critical moments that followed and how this case inspired her to turn her grief into a positive resource for nurses.

We discuss what was going on at the alveolar level in this patient, the interventions Amber and her team performed, and the emotional aftermath of working on critical pediatric patients. You’ll learn what to prioritize, the signs of deterioration that can show hours after rescue, and how to recognize what Sarah calls the “inflammatory cascade of awfulness.”

This episode is an honest breakdown of both the science and humanity of drowning care. Don’t miss this story!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Initial assessment of the patient
First treatment priorities: ventilation, airway, and warming
The pathophysiology of drowning
Misconceptions about suctioning in drowning patients
The nurse’s role: documentation and respiratory management
Patient monitoring and signs of deterioration
The emotional burden of pediatric fatalities
How the Get Vitals app supports nurses’ mental health

Learn more about the Get Vitals app:

Website - www.getvitals.care

Instagram -@getvitalsnow

Mentioned in this episode:

Listen to the In The Heart of Care Podcast

https://link.cohostpodcasting.com/6598429e-e927-45b0-9b57-7dd34a09d803?d=seASyqjs7

145: Genetic Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy: Sarah and Leslie's Story

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Some conditions hide in your genes, without any symptoms. One of these conditions is genetic arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy, an inherited condition that can lead to sudden cardiac arrest — even if you feel completely fine.

In this episode, Sarah and Leslie talk about their shared diagnosis of FLNC cardiomyopathy — from how this gene mutation affects the function of the heart to how they're managing this rare condition. You'll hear how Leslie's ICD has saved her life more than once, how it feels to be shocked back to life, and the resilience that's helped them move forward.

This is a raw, real, emotional episode about living with a genetic heart condition. Tune in to learn the signs to watch for, when to get tested, and where to find support!

Topics discussed in this episode:

What is genetic arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy?
How FLNC related ACM differs from other cardiomyopathies
Common symptoms and why some people are diagnosed too late
Treatment and lifestyle management
How Sarah and Leslie finally got diagnosed
Leslie’s first cardiac arrest and its impact
How Sarah is processing her diagnosis
What it feels like to be shocked by your ICD
Types of ICDs: transvenous, SICD, and EV-ICD
Mental and emotional recovery post-cardiac arrest
The WomenHeart organization

Find support or volunteer with WomenHeart:

https://www.womenheart.org/

Mentioned in this episode:

Listen to the In The Heart of Care Podcast

https://link.cohostpodcasting.com/6598429e-e927-45b0-9b57-7dd34a09d803?d=seASyqjs7

144: Trauma Plus: Navigating Complex Trauma Care with Flight Nurse Gwenny

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0400

What happens when a trauma patient isn’t just a trauma patient? In today’s episode, we’re diving into “Trauma Plus” — those high-stakes situations where comorbidities, medications, environmental exposures, or underlying medical emergencies complicate recognition of decompensation and change everything about how we care for our patients.

I’m joined by Flight Nurse Gwenny, who brings her expertise from the field to walk us through three complex trauma cases where things aren’t what they first appear to be. You’ll hear her real-time thought process as she navigates evolving scenarios and shares her assessment priorities, differential diagnoses, and critical interventions.

If you’ve ever cared for a trauma patient and thought, “Something doesn’t add up,” this episode will help sharpen your assessment skills and give you a framework for approaching the next challenging trauma case.

Topics discussed in this episode:

Recognizing subtle signs of trauma decompensation
Assessing geriatric trauma patients with limited compensatory reserves
Managing trauma patients on anticoagulation
Understanding how hypothermia worsens bleeding and coagulopathy
Identifying and interrupting the trauma “triad of death”
Balancing trauma care with underlying medical emergencies
Avoiding anchoring bias when a patient’s story doesn’t add up
Prioritizing assessments and interventions during flight transport
Building a mental checklist for “Trauma Plus” patients

Connect with Nurse Gwenny:

Youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLhEo_HaDEkPFA_cpQPAz2w

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/nursegwennyrn/

TikTok:

https://www.tiktok.com/@nurse.gwenny?_t=8qUUMwXhv5P&_r=1

Purchase her books:

https://www.nursegwenny.com/shop

Mentioned in this episode:

Listen to the In The Heart of Care Podcast

https://link.cohostpodcasting.com/6598429e-e927-45b0-9b57-7dd34a09d803?d=seASyqjs7

143: Neonatal Cardiogenic Shock: What Every Pediatric Nurse Needs to Know with Pediatric ICU Nurse Natalie

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Why would a healthy newborn suddenly stop eating and start vomiting? When a fussy baby comes into the ER, it's easy to assume it's nothing urgent — like colic or gas. But in today's case, there were small signs that pointed to something more.

This episode unpacks the high-risk condition and treatment of neonatal cardiogenic shock with Natalie Pleiman, pediatric nurse and clinical coach. From the early (often misleading) signs to critical assessments, you'll learn what makes cardiogenic shock different in neonates (specifically ductal dependent lesions), what to look for in patient labs, and how to manage the risks of treatment.

Tune in for insights that will help you on your next pediatric cardiac emergency!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Neonatal triage: initial assessment and red flags
Physical exam and early diagnostics
Differences in neonatal anatomy and physiology
Preductal vs. postductal vitals
Signs of coarctation of the aorta
Assessing for sepsis vs. cardiogenic shock
The dangers of fluid boluses
How to effectively administer prostaglandins
The risk and process of neonatal intubation
Pathophysiology of coarctation of the aorta
ICU stabilization to optimize cardiac function
Key signs of congenital heart conditions
Natalie’s framework for understanding congenital heart defects

Connect with Natalie:

https://www.instagram.com/chatwithnat_rn/

Listen to Chat with Nurse Nat on Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/show/7Jh2qe44KipudVKkdXFwWH

Listen to Chat with Nurse Nat on Apple Podcasts:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chat-with-nurse-nat/id1815541418

Mentioned in this episode:

Listen to the In The Heart of Care Podcast

https://link.cohostpodcasting.com/6598429e-e927-45b0-9b57-7dd34a09d803?d=seASyqjs7

142: High Risk PCI for STEMI With Guests Sarah Vance and Caitlyn Nichols

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0400

One unstable patient, three departments, and every nurse on alert... Let's break down what really happens during a high-risk STEMI. This episode follows the case of a 62-year old patient from ER to the Cath Lab to the ICU. Nurses Sarah Vance and Caitlyn Nichols help us explore the role of nurses in each stage of care, from stabilizing the patient to placing an Impella device.

We cover everything from IV placement and medications to monitoring patients through each phase of care. Learn how to prepare patients for the Cath Lab, manage complications like V-fib and bleeding post-PCI, and support the next team during handoffs. This is a must-listen for nurses involved in cardiac care!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Case presentation of a 62-year old patient
ER nurse priorities for STEMI patients
Initial treatment and stabilization
Why “M.O.N.A.” is an outdated practice
Preparing the patient for the Cath Lab team
Cath Lab nurse responsibilities and role during PCI
High-risk PCI vs. standard PCI
Managing common complications
Transitioning from Cath Lab to ICU
ICU nurse priorities for post-PCI patients
Impella placement and monitoring
Managing reperfusion arrhythmias
Long-term care and getting patients off the Impella
Patient and family education

Connect with Sarah Vance:

https://www.instagram.com/iseeu_nurse/

Connect with Caitlyn Nichols:

https://www.instagram.com/icunursingnotesbycaitlyn/

Mentioned in this episode:

Listen to the In The Heart of Care Podcast

https://link.cohostpodcasting.com/6598429e-e927-45b0-9b57-7dd34a09d803?d=seASyqjs7

141: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: Why Bigger is NOT Better!

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Often, the first symptom of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is sudden death. But sometimes, we get a warning— and that’s where clinical judgment at the bedside saves lives.

Today, Sarah goes over the case of her patient Ben, a 20-year-old experiencing syncope and chest pain. As his condition quickly deteriorated, the team had to carefully manage the patient before reaching a diagnosis of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Hear what pointed them to this diagnosis, why some standard interventions can be dangerous in HCM cases, and the critical decisions made during his treatment.

Listen now for a deep dive into the pathophysiology and treatment of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Case presentation of a young patient with chest pain
How we got to the patient’s diagnosis
Pathophysiology of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Why the patient deteriorated and our treatment approach
Emergency management of HCM
Other types of cardiomyopathy
Key takeaways for bedside nurses

Listen to episode 98, “Broken Heart Syndrome” aka Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy, here: https://healthpodcastnetwork.com/episodes/rapid-response-rn/98-broken-heart-syndrome-aka-takotsubo-cardiomyopathy/

Mentioned in this episode:

Listen to the In The Heart of Care Podcast

https://link.cohostpodcasting.com/6598429e-e927-45b0-9b57-7dd34a09d803?d=seASyqjs7

140: Resuscitation Then and Now: How Evidence Shapes Every Beat with Guest Dr. Ashish Panchal MD, PhD

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 07:27:00 -0400

Remember when we used to use stacked shocks for ventricular arrhythmias or load patients up with high doses of epinephrine and bicarb? Over the last 25 years, resuscitation guidelines have evolved and it’s our job to stay updated on the current protocols.

Here to help us break down what’s changed and what still works is Dr. Ashish Panchal, Chair of Emergency Cardiovascular Care for the AHA and host of the In the Heart of Care podcast. We discuss how a common cardiac arrest scenario would be treated from 2000 to today, highlighting key guideline changes like the shift to neuroprotective strategies, high-quality CPR, and post-arrest care.

Tune in to stay current and hear how science continues to shape the way we save lives!

Topics discussed in this episode:

How AHA guidelines are developed
Dr. Panchal’s research and impact
Early 2000s resuscitation guidelines
“Save the brain” approach in the 2010s
How medication use has evolved, like epinephrine
The current focus on high-performance CPR and neuroprotective strategies
Post-arrest care and survivorship
Balancing clinical trends with scientific validation
How nurses can stay current on AHA guidelines

Check out the In the Heart of Care Podcast here:

https://rqipartners.com/podcast/

Mentioned in this episode:

Listen to the In The Heart of Care Podcast

https://link.cohostpodcasting.com/6598429e-e927-45b0-9b57-7dd34a09d803?d=seASyqjs7

139: Gut Feelings & Great Saves: Nursing Wisdom with Dr. Vicki Good, DNP and Andrea Schmitt RN, Hosts of the Voices in Nursing Podcast

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Think of a case where you ignored your intuition, leaned on your training, and followed protocol… but something still felt off. Today, we're talking about how to balance evidence-based practice with those gut instincts that can change patient outcomes.

Dr. Vicki Good, DNP and Andrea Schmitt, hosts of the Voices in Nursing Podcast, share stories that highlight why intuition is just as important as clinical data and why nurses need to confidently speak up. You’ll learn how to develop your own intuition, teach others to trust their instincts, and the value of hindsight wisdom in building a database of red flags for patient decline.

Listen now and start tapping into your nursing wisdom!

Topics discussed in this episode:

What it really means to be a leader in nursing
Why intuition matters in nursing
How to develop nursing intuition
Practical application of intuition
Ideas for educating nurses and building intuition
The importance of psychological safety for growth
How to get involved with AACN
The best and worst nursing advice

Connect with Vicki and Andrea:

vicki.good@aacn.org

andrea.schmitt@aacn.org

Check out the Voices in Nursing Podcast:

https://www.aacn.org/education/podcast-series

138: Could Rapid Response Teams Be One of The Solutions to Reduce Nursing Burnout, Improve Nursing Retention, and Elevate Patient Safety? With Guest Jaclyn RN

Fri, 23 May 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Rapid response teams provide so much more than reducing morbidity and mortality! Think about how quickly things can spiral without the support of RRTs.

As the former director of specialty teams, Jaclyn Bond MSN-LM, MBA-HM has seen how a rapid response program can improve outcomes while also improving nursing job satisfaction and promoting retention. We talk about the MANY benefits of rapid response teams, including fewer code blues, more confident nurses, and their impact on hospital culture.

Learn how to advocate for these teams at your facility, collect data that will help you build your case, and start a program with limited resources!

Topics discussed in this episode:

The unique role of specialty teams
Strategies to advocate for additional staff
Why rapid response nurses are crucial in hospitals
Data collection basics and tips
The cultural impact of rapid response teams
How to start a rapid response team

Jaclyn’s article on the nurse-led sepsis response:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39526100/

Download Jaclyn’s SBAR template to help you make the case for rapid response teams:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/12ltxvEfblwBh-ezaxyTNhU7m2p_tw9GZ/view?usp=sharing

Jaclyn Bond’s views expressed on this podcast are her own and do not reflect the views of any organizations or entities.

Mentioned in this episode:

Listen to the In The Heart of Care Podcast

https://link.cohostpodcasting.com/6598429e-e927-45b0-9b57-7dd34a09d803?d=seASyqjs7

137: In Flight Medical Emergencies with Alex PhD, EMT-P

Fri, 09 May 2025 07:00:00 -0400

You’re 30,000 feet in the air when you hear, “Is there a medical professional onboard?” Answering that call is a little more complicated than you might think.

In this episode, Alexandra Jabr, PhD, EMT-P joins Sarah to discuss what happened during their first in-flight medical emergencies — what surprises came up, what resources they had, and how they responded with limited supplies. They share what they learned about caring for patients mid-flight, from the most common in-flight emergencies to the legal considerations of volunteering. Tune in to find out how you can prepare and respond if you ever hear that call in the air!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Alex’s international flight medical emergency
What went wrong during Sarah’s first in-flight emergency
Protocols and challenges of in-flight care
Aircraft medical kits and limitations
Legal protections for volunteers
Should you accept gifts from airlines?
Common in-flight medical emergencies
How to prepare for in-flight emergencies
Documentation protocols and follow-up

Connect with Alex:

https://www.emergencyresilience.com/

https://www.instagram.com/emergencyresilience

Check out the list of FAA mandated medical supplies on every flight:

https://mobile.fpnotebook.com/ER/Pharm/FMndtdEmrgncyMdclKt.htm

Mentioned in this episode:

Listen to the In The Heart of Care Podcast

https://link.cohostpodcasting.com/6598429e-e927-45b0-9b57-7dd34a09d803?d=seASyqjs7

136: Bridging the Gap Between Pre-Hospital and In-Hospital Patient Care with Flight Medic, Sam

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0400

The flight team may be on the way, but your work isn’t done yet. Flight medic Sam, host of the Nine One One Nonsense podcast, shares what the ideal patient handoff looks like between hospital staff and flight crews, and why those final moments at the bedside matter more than you think. You’ll hear real-life examples of where in-hospital care teams often go wrong and how you can help create a safer, smoother transfer.

Sam also shares what it’s really like to be part of a flight crew — the challenges, team dynamics, and common misconceptions that affect patient care. No matter your role, this episode will help nurses and flight crews understand their role and how to better work together!

Topics discussed in this episode:

The role of ground versus flight paramedics
Gaps between pre-hospital care and in-hospital care
Common handoff mistakes (and how to avoid them)
Misconceptions about flight transfers and patient care
Why sedation matters before takeoff
Managing medications and supplies in-flight
How bedside nurses can better support flight teams
The importance of team dynamics in flight medicine
Advice for future flight medics and nurses

Check out Sam's podcast, Nine One One Nonsense, here:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nine-one-one-nonsense/id1673565406

Connect with Sam on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/911nonsense/

Mentioned in this episode:

Listen to the In The Heart of Care Podcast

https://link.cohostpodcasting.com/6598429e-e927-45b0-9b57-7dd34a09d803?d=seASyqjs7

135: Ruptured Aortic Dissection With Guest Christian Guzman, APRN

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0400

What began as a stroke alert turned into a different kind of emergency: aortic dissection. Today's patient case study follows a series of clinical decisions that saved an elderly man from a fatal misdiagnosis. Christian Guzman APRN walks us through the case — from the patient’s misleading symptoms to the diagnostic tests that showed something more was going on.

We dive into the anatomy, pathophysiology, and clinical signs of aortic dissection, including how the location of tears changes the presentation of symptoms. From emergency treatment strategies to post-op care, you’ll learn how to navigate the nuances of managing this complex condition!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Patient’s initial presentation
Symptoms of aortic dissection and diagnostic imaging
Bilateral blood pressure and perfusion checks
Aortic dissection vs. aortic aneurysm
Why symptoms vary so widely
Bedside assessment and monitoring
Treatment priorities and pain management
Post-op care and long-term complications

Mentioned in this episode:

Listen to the In The Heart of Care Podcast

https://link.cohostpodcasting.com/6598429e-e927-45b0-9b57-7dd34a09d803?d=seASyqjs7

134: Ruptured Ectopic Pregnancy With Guest Shenell RN

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0400

One minute she was the nurse—then she became the emergency. Today, Shenell RN of the All One Nurse podcast shares her story of a ruptured ectopic pregnancy that sent her into emergency surgery on shift — and the second ectopic pregnancy that followed just a year later.

We talk through the symptoms she felt that day, how methotrexate treatment impacted her recovery, and the range of symptoms that can make it hard to tell what’s really going on. Shenell also opens up about the emotional toll of pregnancy loss, her journey to have her rainbow baby, and how her experience gave her deeper insight into the kind of support patients really need.

This episode is a firsthand account of what compassionate care really looks like—and how nurses can better support patients during reproductive emergencies.

Topics discussed in this episode:

The importance of self-care for nurses
How her experience changed her approach to patient care
First ectopic pregnancy and emergency surgery
Emotional aftermath and physical recovery
Methotrexate treatment for her second ectopic pregnancy
How to support patients through pregnancy loss
Patient education and communication tips
When patients need to seek care
Conceiving after ectopic pregnancy

Connect with Shenell RN:

https://www.instagram.com/allonenurse_shenell/

Listen to the All One Nurse Podcast featuring Sarah Lorenzini:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/navigating-rapid-response-nursing-with-sarah-lorenzini/id1755700754?i=1000693458288

Mentioned in this episode:

Listen to the In The Heart of Care Podcast

https://link.cohostpodcasting.com/6598429e-e927-45b0-9b57-7dd34a09d803?d=seASyqjs7

133: Transitioning from ED to Rapid Response with Aidan RN

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Rapid response nurses don’t just handle codes — they help prevent them from happening. Contrary to popular belief, Rapid Response Nursing is not just sprinting from code blue the next and neither is ER nursing. While there are a lot of similarities between these two specialties in Nursing, there are a lot of differences too. In this episode, Aidan RN shares what it was like to transition from the fast-paced ER to the world of rapid response.

We discuss what sets rapid response apart, the mindset shifts that helped him make the switch, and break down cases where their quick action made all the difference — including a subdural hematoma caught just in time, a STEMI with an unusual presentation, and a patient whose only symptom was neck pain.

Whether you’re calling rapid response or considering the role yourself, don't miss this conversation on the skills and challenges that define rapid response nursing!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Why transition from ER to rapid response?
Differences between ER and rapid response nursing
Case study: discovering a subdural hematoma
The role of intuition in rapid response nursing
Best practices to work with rapid response nurses
Advice to nurses considering Rapid Response Nursing

Learn more about what it’s like to be a Rapid Response Nurse!

https://www.aacn.org/blog/exploring-the-world-of-rapid-response-nurses

Mentioned in this episode:

Listen to the In The Heart of Care Podcast

https://link.cohostpodcasting.com/6598429e-e927-45b0-9b57-7dd34a09d803?d=seASyqjs7

132: Living and Working as a Nurse With a LVAD (Left Ventricular Assist Device)

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Imagine working as a nurse, but you must stay attached to battery packs to stay alive. That’s the reality for Tiffany Davis Cannon, RN—full-time nurse, mother, and LVAD patient. After being diagnosed with peripartum cardiomyopathy, she had to adapt to life with an LVAD—but it’s been anything but easy.

In this episode, Tiffany candidly shares the emotional and physical challenges of living with an LVAD, how her experience changed her approach to nursing, and what she wants other nurses to know about caring for LVAD patients. Tune in to hear how she’s embraced her new normal and turned her experience into an opportunity to advocate for patients!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Early signs of peripartum cardiomyopathy
Tiffany’s birth story and descent into heart failure
Making the decision to get an LVAD
How the LVAD works and the implantation process
The reality of living life with an LVAD
Challenges of working as a nurse with an LVAD
How her experience changed her approach to patient care
Common LVAD emergencies
Tips for treating LVAD patients

Hear more from Tiffany:

FB: https://www.facebook.com/tiffany.cannon.397/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/tiffany_cannon90/

Email: Tiffany.cannonjourney@gmail.com

Purchase her book, A Journey Through Supernatural Healing!

https://a.co/d/av53sri

Mentioned in this episode:

Listen to the In The Heart of Care Podcast

https://link.cohostpodcasting.com/6598429e-e927-45b0-9b57-7dd34a09d803?d=seASyqjs7

131 REBOOT: TACO, TRALI, and All Things Blood Transfusion Reactions

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 16:02:00 -0400

Would you know how to identify a blood transfusion reaction? This is one of those nightmare cases because we just expect that when we give blood transfusion, the patient will get better… but what about when they get worse?

In this reboot episode, host Sarah Lorenzini shares evidence-based research to shed some light and insight into this very rare, but potentially life threatening situation.

In today’s episode, Sarah goes over a case study of one of a rapid response patient she dealt with where she discovered there was a blood transfusion reaction when it wasn’t readily apparent. You will hear how the patient was reacting, how she assessed the situation, and how the patient was treated.

You will also hear Sarah’s cliff notes from what she researched detailing what kind of blood transfusion reactions to look out for, their treatment, what TACO and TRALI stand for along with their symptoms and treatment.

This episode is full of information that you may not learn in nursing school, but is SO useful when treating a patient that is having a blood transfusion reaction.

Tune in to hear this and more!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Synopsis of a rapid response patient after a blood transfusion reaction
First thing to do when you discover a blood transfusion reaction
Blood transfusion reactions in order of prevalence
What does TACO stand for?
Treatment for each blood transfusion reactions
What does TRALI stand for?
Symptoms TACO vs. TRALI and how they are treated

Mentioned in this episode:

Listen to the In The Heart of Care Podcast

https://link.cohostpodcasting.com/6598429e-e927-45b0-9b57-7dd34a09d803?d=seASyqjs7

130:The Do's and Don'ts of Healthy Team Dynamics (Creating a Safe Culture With Your Team)

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0400

What makes some teams work in sync and others fall into chaos? During emergencies, team dynamics are just as important as clinical skills for saving lives. Let’s dive into what it takes to create a work culture that encourages collaboration, where mistakes are as learning opportunities, and kindness builds trust!

This episode outlines the do’s and don’ts of leading a team during emergencies, covering everything from fostering a safe environment to breaking down barriers that keep people from speaking up. Tune in for insights that will help you provide the best patient care even in high-stress emergencies!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Lessons from a chaotic CVICU emergency
The do’s and don’ts of team leadership
How to create a culture of safety
Why it’s important to be kind versus nice

Listen to episode 62, “Resuscitation Leadership: Beyond the ABCs of CODE BLUE:”

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/62-resuscitation-leadership-beyond-the-abcs-of-code-blue/id1535997752?i=1000621879820

Listen to episode 123, “What Makes for a Great Resuscitationist?:”

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/123-what-makes-for-a-great-resuscitationist/id1535997752?i=1000670934458

Mentioned in this episode:

Listen to the In The Heart of Care Podcast

https://link.cohostpodcasting.com/6598429e-e927-45b0-9b57-7dd34a09d803?d=seASyqjs7

129: Sickle Cell Crisis With Morgan RN

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0400

What makes sickle cell disease so challenging to manage? It’s not just the pain — it’s the complications, stigma, and the need for fast, effective care. In this episode, Morgan Taylor, RN helps us unpack the science behind sickle cell crisis and how nurses can address both the medical and emotional needs of their patients.

Learn how to recognize early warning signs of severe complications like acute chest syndrome, balance efficacy and safety in treatment, and help patients prevent a sickle cell crisis. Morgan also shares five key insights that will give you the tools and confidence to provide the best care to your next sickle cell patient. Tune in to this can’t-miss episode now!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Patient presentation and initial symptoms
Pathophysiology of sickle cell anemia
Pain management
Role of fluids and oxygen therapy
Advanced treatments and managing severe complications
Signs and symptoms of worst case scenarios like Acute Chest Syndrome
Importance of advocacy and patient education
Psychosocial impacts of chronic illness

You can learn more about Morgan here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/morgan-clark-taylor/

Find out everything Archer Review has to offer here:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/archerreview/

Mentioned in this episode:

Listen to the In The Heart of Care Podcast

https://link.cohostpodcasting.com/6598429e-e927-45b0-9b57-7dd34a09d803?d=seASyqjs7

128: Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 08:32:00 -0400

Once called pseudoseizures, psychogenic non-epileptic seizures can confuse even seasoned clinicians — until you know the signs. These seizures mimic epilepsy but have entirely different causes, requiring a unique approach to care. In this episode, we explore how to distinguish PNES from epilepsy, the psychological factors that trigger attacks, and steps in the diagnostic process.

Learn how you can identify these episodes, provide compassionate care, and educate patients and their families about this misunderstood condition!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Three PNES patient stories
What are psychogenic non-epileptic seizures?
PNES versus epilepsy: key differences and signs
Diagnosing PNES
Treatment and the role of nurses

Learn more about psychogenic non-epileptic seizures here:

https://www.epilepsy.com/stories/truth-about-psychogenic-nonepileptic-seizures

Mentioned in this episode:

127: Status Epilepticus

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 06:48:00 -0400

Do you feel confident recognizing status epilepticus? When a seizure doesn’t stop on its own, knowing the signs of this high-stakes emergency is the first step to preventing complications and even death. This episode breaks everything you need to know about status epilepticus — the warning signs, critical action steps, and the interventions that save lives.

In this deep dive for Epilepsy Awareness Month, Sarah unpacks the role of nurses to take quick action and advocate for patients in status epilepticus. From what happens in the brain during prolonged seizures to proper use of benzodiazepines and anti-epileptic drugs, we get into the nitty gritty of managing this life-threatening condition.

Topics discussed in this episode:

Status epilepticus case study
Defining status epilepticus and its pathophysiology
How to recognize the signs of status epilepticus
Intervention tools and best practices
Medication use and management
Prevention and identification of underlying causes

126: Hurricane Relief Nursing with Brooke RN

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0400

No power, no water, no communication. How do healthcare teams provide care during disasters? In this episode, host Sarah Lorenzini and Brooke MSN, RN, CCRN, NE-BC share their experiences working as disaster response nurses after the hurricanes in Asheville, NC and Tampa, FL.

Get a glimpse into the challenges, collaboration, and determination that define hurricane relief nursing, as well as the unity and resilience shown by patients and communities in recovery. Listen to learn about the realities of crisis care, from deployment to being an effective nurse leader in a chaotic environment!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Deploying to Asheville with limited resources
What it’s like working on a disaster relief nursing team
The coordination of patient care and operations in disaster relief
Stories of humanity, kindness, and uplifting moments in crisis
Common medical issues and challenges during hurricane disasters
How to maintaining team morale as a nurse leader
The biggest lessons from working as a hurricane relief nurse

Check out Accuryn for yourself:

https://accuryn.com/why-accuryn/

Mentioned in this episode:

125: COPD and Oxygen Delivery Modalities

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0400

You never forget your most embarrassing nursing moment — especially when it happens in the middle of a critical situation. In this episode, Sarah recounts an unforgettable, cringe-worthy blunder during a rapid response call for a COPD patient in respiratory distress. Discover how she managed the patient’s COPD exacerbation and advocated for the patient’s care despite a lack of urgency from some on the medical team.

Sarah also dives into the pathophysiology of COPD and intervention strategies, evaluating the pros and cons of the various oxygen delivery modalities like non-rebreather masks and BiPAP. Curious how an awkward moment turned into a valuable lesson for COPD care? Tune in now!

Topics discussed in this episode:

The embarrassing BBQ incident
Lessons from a COPD patient story
Pathophysiology of COPD
The truth about hypoxic drive
Oxygen therapy and choosing the right delivery method for your patient
When intubation is the best intervention

124: ETOH Withdrawal

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 10:00:00 -0400

Caring for patients withdrawing from alcohol can be challenging to say the least. In this episode, host Sarah Lorenzini shares a case of a patient recovering from emergency surgery, and highlights the subtle but critical signs of alcohol withdrawal—like anxiety, tremors, confusion, tachycardia, and hypertension—that often go unrecognized until symptoms escalate.

Key topics covered in this episode include:

The pathophysiology of alcohol withdrawal, focusing on how chronic alcohol use disrupts the balance between the brain’s inhibitory GABA and excitatory glutamate neurotransmitter systems.
A detailed timeline of alcohol withdrawal symptoms, from early signs (6-12 hours) to severe complications like delirium tremens (48-72 hours).
The importance of compassionate, non-judgmental care for patients with alcohol use disorder (AUD) during withdrawal, and why judgment rarely leads to positive change.
The role of CIWA-Ar scoring to assess withdrawal severity and guide treatment, including common medications like benzodiazepines and the emerging use of phenobarbital for symptom management.
Critical reminders to carefully evaluate all symptoms and avoid misattributing every instance of confusion or agitation to alcohol withdrawal, ensuring comprehensive care.

Tune in to learn how to recognize and manage alcohol withdrawal, keep patients safe, and provide the compassionate care they need during this vulnerable time.

Mentioned in this episode:

Rapid Response Academy Link

Wanna check out Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick? click this link to learn more: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

123: What Makes for a Great Resuscitationist?

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Bringing calm to chaos is an underrated skill in medicine. During her talk at the ResusX Conference, Sarah explored this concept and the importance of guiding teams through high-stress situations. In today’s episode, you’ll hear what happened when Sarah responded to a bloody code blue that ended in tears and defeat. This patient story is a prime example of why being a great resuscitationist requires more than clinical skills, and how leadership and communication can make or break a team’s performance under pressure.

So, what makes for a great resuscitationist? Tune in as Sarah breaks down three areas you should focus on to become a better resuscitationist leader!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Lessons from a chaotic code blue
What makes a great resuscitationist?
How to effectively lead a resuscitation team
The crucial role of debriefs

122: What is POTS and When Is It an Emergency? With Guest Dr. Alexis Cutchins

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Behind every POTS diagnosis is a patient who had to fight for answers. Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is often misdiagnosed because its symptoms mimic so many other conditions. In fact, it is often dismissed as “just anxiety”, but anxiety is a secondary side effect of the fact that the patient keeps having syncopal episodes without explanation.

To dig deeper into its diagnosis and treatment challenges, Sarah turned to Dr. Alexis Cutchins, cardiologist and co-author of a key article on the management of POTS. In this episode, Dr. Cutchins breaks down the symptoms, possible causes and contributing factors of this complex and misunderstood disorder. She also explores treatment strategies and new research that could improve patient outcomes.

Tune in to hear Dr. Cutchins’ insights into how healthcare professionals can better recognize POTS and advocate for patients!

Topics discussed in this episode:

What is postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS)?
Causes and contributing factors of POTS
Common symptoms of POTS
Diagnostic tests and diagnostic challenges
The treatment process and effective strategies
New developments in POTS research
Treating POTS in an emergency situation
How to better manage and advocate for patients

Read Dr. Cutchins' article, Narrative Review of Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome: Associated Conditions and Management Strategies: https://www.uscjournal.com/articles/narrative-review-postural-orthostatic-tachycardia-syndrome-associated-conditions-and

POTS patients can find more information and resources here:

https://www.dysautonomiainternational.org/

Print this guide to plan for POTS emergencies with your physician!

https://supertmastcell.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/SuperT-PatientReferenceGuide-2024.pdf

Mentioned in this episode:

Rapid Response Academy Link

Wanna check out Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick? click this link to learn more: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

121: Early Detection of AKI With Tom MSN, RN From Accuryn

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Pee might be the key to saving your patient’s life. In this episode of Rapid Response RN, we dive into the critical yet often overlooked early sign of clinical deterioration — urine output. Join us as Tom Colabro, MNS-HCSM, RN, NEA-BC, shares his expert insights on why accurate urine output can be a cost-effective biomarker in patient care.

Tom introduces the Accuryn Monitoring System, which not only identifies AKI up to 33.4 hours faster than traditional methods but also features Active Drain Line Clearance, significantly reducing the risk of CAUTI. You’ll learn how this innovative technology both eases the nursing workload and improves patient outcomes.

From a patient case study to practical tips, this episode covers everything you need to know about the development and prevention of AKI. Tune in for an engaging discussion on the importance of early detection through urine output monitoring!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Overlooked dangers of acute kidney injury
What happens in the body to cause AKIs
Good pee versus bad pee
The correlation between urine output and patient outcomes
Case study on the AKI cascade
The three stages of AKI: prerenal, intrarenal, and postrenal
Challenges in accurate urine output monitoring
How CMS mandatory reporting regulations could impact hospitals
Accuryn’s innovative work in the early detection of AKIs
Tips for advocating for new technology at your workplace
The most important takeaways from this episode

Starting in October 2024, CMS is including AKI as a reportable measure under the IPPS eCQMS Patient Safety reporting. Mandatory reporting of AKI Stage 2 and greater will begin by 2026. Click here to learn more:

https://accuryn.com/why-accuryn/

120: Medical Missions Nursing With Becca RN From Mercy Ships

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Burned out by hospital life? For Becca RN, serving a two-year mission with Mercy Ships reignited her passion for nursing and introduced her to a global community of volunteers. Her experience as a nurse on a hospital ship in West Africa went beyond traditional patient care, allowing her to play a role in both the physical and emotional healing of her patients.

In this episode, she shares what daily life is like on Mercy Ships, talks about the diverse education and team-focused work environment, and reflects on the personal growth that came from living and working in a multicultural setting aboard Mercy Ships.

Tune in to learn how Mercy Ships provided life-changing opportunities for both patients and volunteers!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Becca’s journey to join Mercy Ships
Mercy Ships’ mission and volunteer opportunities
The training process to live and work on a ship
A day in the life as a Mercy Ships nurse
Community and social life on Mercy Ships
Educational perks and collaborative work environment
Mercy Ships’ profound impact on patients and volunteers
Want to volunteer with Mercy Ships?

Mercy Ships is a global charity that operates the world’s largest hospital ships. Since its founding in 1978, Mercy Ships has brought hope and healing to Africa through surgical care, education, training, community development, and health programs. The life-changing work of our hospital ships is made possible all because of our vibrant community of volunteers from around the world. Whether you are a Perioperative, Critical Care, Ophthalmology, or a Pediatric Nurse, there is a place on board for you! Find your place and join Mercy Ship as a volunteer to help change the lives of people in great need.

Follow Mercy Ships:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MercyShips

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mercyships/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mercy-ships/

Learn more:

https://opportunities.mercyships.org/volunteer-now/

Mentioned in this episode:

Rapid Response Academy Link

Wanna check out Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick? click this link to learn more: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

119: Spinal Cord Ischemia with Michelle Dedeo DNP, RN, CNS, ACCNS-AG, CCRN, CNRN, SCRN, TCRN

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 07:46:00 -0400

When Michelle discovered her patient was paralyzed, it surprised the whole medical team. This patient who was previously mobile and recovering from septic shock was now paralyzed and ultimately diagnosed with spinal cord ischemia, but could early intervention have changed the outcome?

In this episode, we discuss the causes, signs, diagnosis and treatment of spinal cord ischemia. Michelle shares powerful insights from her work in neurocritical care, including a technique for detecting easy-to-miss neurological changes.

Tune in to find out how you can improve patient outcomes when managing spinal cord ischemia!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Michelle’s passion for patient care and nurse advocacy
Critical case study: discovering a spinal cord abscess
How the patient developed spinal cord ischemia
Pathophysiology and signs of spinal cord ischemia
Neurological assessment tips
Peripheral versus central nervous system assessments
Diagnostic criteria and the diagnostic process
Prognosis and patient recovery
Treatment options and challenges
The role of the ABCDEF bundle in critical care

Connect with Michelle:

https://www.michellededeo.com/

https://www.instagram.com/michellededeo/

Listen to Michelle’s podcasts, the SCRN Prep Podcast and Narrative Nurse Project Podcast!

Get 20% off Michelle’s Stroke Review Bootcamp with code RAPIDRN20!

https://www.nicolekupchikconsulting.com/booksAndCourses/online-courses/61/stroke-review-bootcamp-case-studies-in-optimizing-care

118: Cardiac Tamponade With Brian McCain

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0400

This week, we are talking about every cardiac nurse’s worst nightmare: cardiac tamponade. Host Sarah Lorenzini is joined by Brian McCain RN to share a crazy case of cardiac tamponade where quick intervention made all the difference. In this episode, they discuss the critical signs, symptoms and pathophysiology of cardiac tamponade.

Brian and Sarah cover clinical findings like Beck’s triad and dampened arterial line waveforms, assessment techniques for patients who rapidly decline versus those with a gradual buildup of symptoms, and the nurse’s role in preparing patients for an open arrest.

Tune in to learn how to recognize and manage this cardiac emergency!

Topics discussed in this episode:

What Brian loves about the nursing profession
A classic case of cardiac tamponade
Pathophysiology of cardiac tamponade
The clinical findings of cardiac tamponade
Assessment and diagnosis of cardiac tamponade
Differentiating between cardiac tamponade and pericardial effusion
Preparing the patient for an open arrest

Mentioned in this episode:

117: Pericarditis vs Myocardial Infarction

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0400

A patient arrives at the ER, complaining of chest pain that dramatically worsens when she lies down. What could this clue reveal about her condition? In this episode, host Sarah Lorenzini recounts her experience caring for her first pericarditis patient and the subtle yet critical signs that distinguish it from more common cardiac emergencies.

Sarah dives into the tricky nature of chest pain, sharing how the PQRST pain assessment and an EKG played a critical role in uncovering the patient’s condition. She also outlines the diagnostic criteria that help differentiate pericarditis from more serious conditions like myocardial infarction, emphasizing the symptoms that can make diagnosis challenging.

Listen to the episode for insights on recognizing the easily mistaken signs of pericarditis, diagnosing the condition, and providing effective treatment!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Patient case study of a young woman with chest pain
Assessment and diagnosis of pericarditis
Pathophysiology of pericarditis
Infectious vs. noninfectious causes of pericarditis
The diagnostic criteria for pericarditis
EKG characteristics in pericarditis vs. myocardial infarction
Key takeaways on the diagnosis and treatment of pericarditis

Learn more by reading this Brady et al article about ECG morphology in pericarditis:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11581081/

Mentioned in this episode:

Rapid Response Academy Link

Wanna check out Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick? click this link to learn more: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

116: "So You Want to Go Back to School?" with Guest Nicole Kupchik, Clinical Nurse Specialist

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Clinical Nurse Specialists are more than just experts in their field. They are advanced practice nurses who are driven to make system wide changes for both nurses and their patients.

This episode sheds light on the critical role of Clinical Nurse Specialists, the extensive education and experience needed to enter the field, and their unique responsibilities compared to other nursing positions. Nicole openly shares the impact she’s been able to make as a CNS, the challenges she’s faced — and even mistakes she's made along the way. We also discuss the worrying decline in CNS programs, and what nurses can do to secure a CNS position in today's healthcare environment.

Tune in to learn more about what it takes to be a Clinical Nurse Specialist and decide if it's the right fit for you!

Topics discussed in this episode:

The importance of the CNS role in healthcare
Differences between a CNS and other nursing roles
Nicole’s experience implementing an award winning sepsis program
The experience and skills required to succeed as a CNS
Challenges of the CNS role
The future of the CNS role
Advice for aspiring Clinical Nurse Specialists

Head to Nicole’s website to get 20% off ALL courses and educational materials with code RAPIDRN20!

https://www.nicolekupchikconsulting.com/?ref=30065

Connect with Nicole Kupchik:

https://www.instagram.com/nicolekupchik/

https://www.tiktok.com/@nicolekupchik

https://www.facebook.com/NicoleKupchikConsultingEducation

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-kupchik-mn-rn-ccrn-530b8710/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/nicolekupchik5959

115: Pediatric Empyema With Erik and Nykole, Critical Care Transport Nurses

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 06:28:00 -0400

This week's case study features a 5-week trauma injury, a critical care transport, and a pediatric patient with a surprise sepsis diagnosis. Critical Care Transport Nurses Erik and Nykole join host Sarah Lorenzini to discuss the complexities of managing a young patient with an unexpected empyema.

In this episode, you’ll hear Erik's initial assessment of the patient, how the diagnosis of empyema was ultimately reached, and the actions taken to keep the patient stabilized during transport. They cover important topics like fluid overload in pediatric patients, re-expansion pulmonary edema, and therapeutic presence.

Erik and Nykole also share their journey to becoming critical care transport nurses and offer insights on caring for pediatric patients. Listen to this conversation for a behind-the-scenes look at pediatric critical care transport!

Topics discussed in this episode:

The training required for critical care transport nursing
Initial patient assessment and history
What led Erik to suspect sepsis
The pathophysiology of re-expansion pulmonary edema
Managing the patient during transport
Key lessons from the case
Best practices for pediatric fluid management
Symptoms and treatment of re-expansion pulmonary edema
The importance of therapeutic presence in pediatric cases

Mentioned in this episode:

Rapid Response Academy Link

Wanna check out Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick? click this link to learn more: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

114: Serotonin Syndrome

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0400

This mystery case kept everyone guessing, and now it’s time to reveal Mr. James’ surprising diagnosis: serotonin syndrome! But how did he end up with this rare condition? In this episode, host Sarah Lorenzini reviews Mr. James’ case, explains what led him to develop serotonin syndrome, and the signs that pointed to this diagnosis.

If you were stumped by this case, don’t sweat it! Serotonin syndrome is hard to diagnose, but Sarah breaks down its pathophysiology and shares effective treatment methods. Discover key factors that contribute to serotonin syndrome, such as serotonergic medications, and the myriad of symptoms that can affect the patients' autonomic system, neuromuscular system, and mental state.

Tune in now to learn more about serotonin syndrome!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Overview of Mr. James’ case
Understanding serotonin and the causes of serotonin syndrome
Pathophysiology of serotonin syndrome
Symptoms to look for in patients
The link between serotonin syndrome and sleep apnea
Diagnosis and treatment strategies

Watch this video to learn how to assess patients for clonus:

https://youtu.be/4SrhgjGIZ30

Read the article about SSRIs exacerbating sleep apnea: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor use is associated with worse sleep-related breathing disturbances in individuals with depressive disorders and sleep complaints: a retrospective study

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7927326/#:~:text=Conclusions%3A,be%20confirmed%20by%20prospective%20studies

Mentioned in this episode:

BONUS MYSTERY EPISODE

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 10:59:00 -0400

Can you guess what was Mr. James' diagnosis?

Why was he having periods of apnea?

Why was he tachycardic?

Why was he hypertensive?

Why was he so rigid?

Why wouldn't he wake up?

Tune in Friday for Episode 114 to hear the reveal of the diagnosis and breakdown of the pathophysiology and how to treat Mr. James' condition

113: How to be the BEST Nursing Preceptor EVER!

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Awesome nurses don’t always make great preceptors. So what does it take to nurture new talent into capable and confident professionals? This episode delves into fundamental qualities, mindset and teaching strategies necessary to excel in the role of a preceptor.

Host Sarah Lorenzini reflects on her experiences with both good and bad preceptors, sharing insights on how to create a supportive and empowering learning environment that encourages independence. From setting expectations and goals to dealing with difficult trainees, she outlines proven methods to help nurses become an effective mentor. You’ll learn techniques for providing constructive criticism, building up critical thinking skills, promoting self-efficacy in trainees, and more!

Tune in to learn how to become an exceptional preceptor and make a positive impact on the next generation of nurses!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Qualities of a good preceptor
How to promote self-efficacy in trainees
The importance of establishing expectations
Effective teaching strategies
Goal setting and building confidence
How to handle difficult trainees
Why preceptors are crucial to the profession

Mentioned in this episode:

Rapid Response Academy Link

Wanna check out Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick? click this link to learn more: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

112: Heat Stroke vs Heat Exhaustion

Fri, 05 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0400

The summer heat brings fun in the sun, relaxing days, and even the threat of heat stroke. In this episode, host Sarah Lorenzini explores the spectrum of heat-related illnesses, highlighting the crucial differences between heat stroke and heat exhaustion. She recounts an emergency case of a young man with all the classic symptoms of heat stroke — and the highest temperature of any patient she’s ever seen.

Sarah delves into the complications that can arise from heat stroke and effective treatment protocols for cooling down patients. You’ll learn about the factors that increase the risk of heat stroke, the danger zone of hyperthermia, and how to prevent hypothermia during the treatment of heat stroke.

Listen to this episode to learn more about recognizing and managing heat stroke!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Heat stroke case study
Differentiating heat stroke from heat exhaustion
Signs and symptoms of heat stroke
Emergency steps for treating heat stroke
Risk factors of heat stroke

Check out the EM Cases episode about heat stroke:

https://emergencymedicinecases.com/em-quick-hits-september-2021/

Read Dr. Swaminathan's article on environmental hyperthermia:

https://coreem.net/core/environmental-hyperthermia/

Mentioned in this episode:

Rapid Response Academy Link

Wanna check out Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick? click this link to learn more: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

111: Liver Failure Part 4: Hepatic Encephalopathy vs Alcohol Withdrawal

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0400

When the diseased liver is unable to filter out neurotoxins like ammonia, we can see a spectrum of the neuropsychiatric symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy. For the final installment in our liver failure series, host Sarah Lorenzini highlights a complicated case of hepatic encephalopathy where critical thinking and interdisciplinary teamwork were key to preventing further complications.

She examines the common signs and symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy, factors that trigger or exacerbate the condition, and challenges nurses face in the diagnostic process. This episode also dives into treatment strategies and how to differentiate between hepatic encephalopathy and alcohol withdrawal.

Tune in to learn how cirrhosis can lead to hepatic encephalopathy, the effect of neurotoxins in the brain, and how you, as a nurse, can manage patient care!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Assessment of Sarah’s rapid response consult patient
The team’s interventions and patient outcome
Pathophysiology of hepatic encephalopathy
Signs and symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy
Diagnostic challenges and aggravating factors
Strategies to manage hepatic encephalopathy
Hepatic encephalopathy versus alcohol withdrawal

Mentioned in this episode:

110: Liver Failure Part 3: Hepatorenal Syndrome

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Managing liver failure often means walking a tightrope with kidney function. This episode explores what happens when the kidneys begin to fail due to liver disease, a condition known as hepatorenal syndrome. Host Sarah Lorenzini sheds light on this common but severe complication of cirrhosis, sharing a critical case that exemplifies the challenges of diagnosing and treating hepatorenal syndrome.

Tune in to gain a better understanding of the pathophysiology of hepatorenal syndrome, the importance of early intervention, and effective treatment strategies. Listen to part three of this liver failure series now!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Case study of a patient with suspected hepatorenal syndrome
Pathophysiology of hepatorenal syndrome
Diagnostic and treatment strategies for hepatorenal syndrome
Key takeaways for nurses

109: Liver Failure Part 2: Esophageal Varices

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0400

A cirrhosis patient has stable vitals, but then starts vomiting blood. What do you do next? This episode delves into a case study that highlights the urgent management of esophageal varices in liver failure patients. Host Sarah Lorenzini reveals how a rapid response call quickly spiraled into a life-threatening emergency, and the critical steps taken to stabilize the patient.

Sarah explains the pathophysiology of cirrhosis and the development of esophageal varices, detailing the pharmacological and procedural interventions that can make the difference between life and death. You’ll get a comprehensive overview of evidence-based treatment strategies, how to manage complications, and the crucial role of nurses in patient care.

Tune in to arm yourself with the knowledge to handle this critical liver emergency!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Management of a cirrhosis patient with a GI bleed
How liver failure can lead to a bleeding esophagus
Challenges of giving blood transfusions to liver failure patients
Pharmacological interventions: octreotide, antibiotics, and beta-blockers
Procedural interventions: endoscopic variceal ligation, TIPS procedure, and balloon tamponade

Listen to Episode 77, “The Trauma, Diamond of Death:” https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/77-the-trauma-diamond-of-death-4-treatment-priorities/id1535997752?i=1000633582257

To learn more about balloon tamponade, check out this breakdown of the procedure: https://first10em.com/balloon-tamponade-of-massive-gi-bleeding/

Mentioned in this episode:

Rapid Response Academy Link

Wanna check out Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick? click this link to learn more: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

108: Liver Failure Part 1: Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0400

No matter your specialty, every nurse cares for patients with liver failure. Host Sarah Lorenzini starts off this four-part series on liver failure by sharing the story of a rapid response call that featured classic complications of cirrhosis: ascites, jaundice, and hypotension. Exacerbating the patient’s terminal condition was a suspected diagnosis of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis.

In this episode, Sarah details how her team managed this case and breaks down the pathophysiology of cirrhosis, including why liver failure leads to so many complications. She covers how to assess and care for patients with cirrhosis, emphasizing the important role of nurses in educating families on liver failure.

Tune in for critical insights into the management of liver failure and its complications!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Initial assessment of a rapid response call for hypotension
Pathophysiology of cirrhosis and its complications
Management of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis
Role of nurses in liver failure patient care

Mentioned in this episode:

Rapid Response Academy Link

Wanna check out Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick? click this link to learn more: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

107: Nurse Stories From NTI 2024

Fri, 31 May 2024 13:26:00 -0400

NTI 2024 brought together critical care nurses from across the country, and this episode highlights over 10 of their most heartwarming and unforgettable stories. Host Sarah Lorenzini speaks to ICU nurses and nurse educators who share tales of human connection, critical thinking, and compassionate care. From navigating crazy shifts to creating new patient programs, their stories showcase the incredible impact nurses have on patients’ lives and the healthcare system.

Tune in to celebrate the dedication, empathy, and resiliency of today's nurses!

Connect with Maddi Flanagan:

https://www.instagram.com/nurse.maddi/

Connect with Michael DeFrancisco:

https://www.instagram.com/camp_competency

Connect with Nicole Kupchik:

https://www.instagram.com/nicolekupchik/

Connect with Nick McGowan:

https://www.instagram.com/critical_care_academy/

Connect with Kali Dayton:

https://www.instagram.com/daytonicuconsulting/

106: Are Nursing Care Plans an Absolute Waste of Time? With Flight Nurse and Educator Nurse Gwenny

Fri, 24 May 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Nursing care plans are the bane of many a nursing student’s academic experience. They are seen as an unnecessary burden to their already heavy workload. But they play an important role in the nursing process, and nurses put these plans into clinical practice every day — whether they realize it or not.

In this episode, Nurse Gwenny, an ER and flight nurse turned EMS educator, speaks with host Sarah Lorenzini about the relevancy and value of nursing care plans. She shares real-life examples of the impact these plans have on critical care thinking and decision-making, especially in high-pressure environments. Nurse Gwenny also discusses her passion for teaching, and how she leverages her experience and insights in her role as an educator.

Sarah and Nurse Gwenny also explore the “green flags” of nursing practice, diving into notable traits like a positive attitude, desire to learn from mistakes, and more.

Tune in to learn how to embrace care plans, improve patient care and your nursing skills!

Topics discussed in this episode:

The value of nursing care plans
Bridging theory and practice in critical care education
Utilizing care plans in during critical care scenarios
Practicing critical care thinking and decision making
Identifying key traits of exemplary nurses
The importance of continuous learn and growth in nursing

Connect with Nurse Gwenny:

https://www.instagram.com/nursegwennyrn/

https://www.tiktok.com/@nurse.gwenny/

Check out Gwenny's book, BUT WHY?: Going Beyond the What So You Can Understand the Why of Critical Care Transport: https://a.co/d/28tLpjP

105: So You Want to Go Back to School Part 2 With Guest Nurse Educator Patrick McMurray

Fri, 17 May 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Nursing educators may not hold the most glamorous position, but they are undoubtedly the backbone of the profession. Nurse Educator Patrick McMurray exemplifies this by bringing creativity and inclusivity into nursing education, supporting nurses at every stage of their career.

In this episode, host Sarah Lorenzini talks to Patrick about his approach to teaching complex concepts and preparing students to succeed beyond the classroom. Using interactive learning strategies and holistic methods, Patrick helps nurses deepen their understanding of nursing practices and effectively apply their knowledge in clinical settings.

Patrick also offers a glimpse into a day in the life of a nursing educator, and discusses the profound impact nursing educators have on the future of nursing. His insights will help you determine if a transition to nursing education is the right next step in your career.

Join us for part two of the “So You Want to Go Back to School” series with Patrick McMurray!

Topics discussed in this episode:

The appeal of nursing education as a career
What it means to be a good educator
Rewards and challenges of being a nursing educator
Redefining nursing education
A day in the life of a nursing educator
Nursing education as an act of justice
The future of nursing education

Learn more about Patrick and find free educational resources on his website!

https://www.patmacrn.com/

Connect with Patrick McMurray:

https://www.instagram.com/patmacrn/

https://twitter.com/nursepatmacrn

https://www.tiktok.com/@patmacrn

Mentioned in this episode:

104: Obstructive Shock With Guests Bryan Boling and Brandon Oto From the Critical Care Scenarios Podcast

Fri, 10 May 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Obstructive shock may be the least common type of shock, but it’s no less critical. As part of Nurse PodCrawl 2024, Bryan Boling and Brandon Oto from the Critical Care Scenarios podcast join host Sarah Lorenzini in this episode to talk about the critical care management of obstructive shock. Together, they walk nurses through a patient scenario, detailing the diagnostic process of obstructive shock due to pulmonary embolism.

Sarah, Bryan and Brandon review the three main causes of obstructive shock: pulmonary embolism, tension pneumothorax, and cardiac tamponade. They also discuss the importance of clinical assessments and diagnostic tools like ultrasound to distinguish between each cause, as well as considerations for treatment.

This episode is the perfect resource for nurses who want to deepen their understanding of obstructive shock. Tune in now to hear insights from three experienced pros!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Patient assessment and key diagnostic tools
Diagnosing obstructive shock due to pulmonary embolism
Treating obstructive shock due to pulmonary embolism
Treatment implications for major causes of obstructive shock
Diagnosis and treatment of tension pneumothorax
Treatment strategies for cardiac tamponade
Key takeaways on obstructive shock management

Check out the rest of Nurse PodCrawl 2024 episodes around cardiogenic, hypovolemic, and distributive shock!

Critical Care Scenarios: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/critical-care-scenarios/id1491559787

How Not to Kill Your Patient: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-not-to-kill-your-patient/id1612099061

Nurse Dose Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nurse-dose-podcast/id1486427611

The Q Word Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-q-word-podcast/id1407523803

Straight A Nursing: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/straight-a-nursing-study-for-nursing-school-exams-nclex/id1210975738

Up My Nursing Game: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/up-my-nursing-game/id1527032817

Mentioned in this episode:

Rapid Response Academy Link

Wanna check out Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick? click this link to learn more: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

103: Should Families Be Allowed to be Present During Resuscitation?

Fri, 03 May 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Which side of the debate do you fall on? Should families be present during resuscitation or escorted to a quiet area to wait? Among those advocating for family presence are nursing researchers, Margo Halm, APRN-BC, PhD, FAHA, NEA-BC and Jessica Sexton, MSN, RN, CPEN. During their conversation with host Sarah Lorenzini, they explain why family presence is so important in patient-centered care and how nurses can facilitate a shift towards embracing this practice in their hospital.

Despite being backed by research, the concept of family presence during resuscitation is still debated by many healthcare professionals. Margo and Jessica address the common misconceptions that surround this controversial topic, provide insights on navigating institutional resistance, and share best practices of a family presence facilitator (FPF).

This episode also features powerful stories on the impact of family presence, tips on how to have important conversations with families and patients, and more. Tune in now!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Benefits of family presence for nurses, patients, and families
Misconceptions of family presence during resuscitation
The role of a family presence facilitator
Best practices and avoiding common mistakes as a FPF
Advocating for family presence in your hospital
Stories that demonstrate the impact of family presence
How to overcome resistance to family presence

Read more in the AACN Practice Alert, Facilitating Family Presence During Resuscitation and Invasive Procedures Throughout the Lifespan:

https://aacnjournals.org/ccnonline/article/44/2/e1/32253/Facilitating-Family-Presence-During-Resuscitation

Learn more about Margo and Jessica’s session at the 2024 NTI Conference:

https://www.aacn.org/conferences-and-events/events-calendar/national-events/event-sessions/national-teaching-institute---2024/c60m296/family-presence-during-resuscitation-and-invasive-procedures-updates-to-the-aacn-pract

Contact Margo Halm at margohalm@gmail.com!

Mentioned in this episode:

Rapid Response Academy Link

Wanna check out Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick? click this link to learn more: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

102: SIADH vs DI With Guest Nick McGowan RN, MSN

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0400

We’ve talked about hyponatremia, but what do you know about Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone secretion (SIADH) and Diabetes Insipidus (DI)? In this episode, host Sarah Lorenzini and Nick McGowan RN, MSN dive into these diseases that develop from complex hormonal responses that manage the body’s water and sodium.

They explore the pathophysiology of both conditions, contrasting the excessive water retention in SIADH with the excessive water loss in DI and how this impacts diagnostic and treatment approaches. Nick identifies which labs and assessments are crucial to accurately diagnose and treat patients, highlighting the importance of neurologic assessments and best practices for correcting sodium.

Sarah and Nick also touch on the debate around cerebral salt wasting, and share interesting facts about the history of these conditions. Tune in to hear key lessons on recognizing and treating these conditions from an experienced ICU nurse!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Symptoms and signs of SIADH and DI
The pathophysiology of SIADH and DI
Diagnostic approaches and key lab values
Treatment and management of SIADH
Treatment and management of DI
Lessons from SIADH and DI patient stories

Check out Nick's course over at Critical Care Academy!

🔗 https://www.ccrnacademy.com?ref=sarahlorenzini

Connect with Nick McGowan:

https://www.instagram.com/critical_care_academy/

https://www.youtube.com/@criticalcareacademy8312

https://www.facebook.com/CCRNacademy

https://www.tiktok.com/@criticalcareacademy

BONUS PodSwap: RSI Drugs with Nurse Mo From Straight A Nursing Podcast

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0400

On this special PodSwap Episode, you will be hearing from Nurse Mo from the Straight A Nursing Podcast! She does an amazing job breaking down all the pharmacology of medications we use for Rapid Sequence Intubation or RSI.

Rapid sequence intubation, a procedure performed to emergently intubate a patient with an intact gag reflex in cases of acute respiratory failure and/or cardiovascular collapse. As a nurse working in the emergency department or ICU, you will be obtaining and may be administering the medications used to perform a rapid sequence intubation. Please be aware of your scope of practice and facility protocol regarding the administration of these medications. In some cases, the medications can only be administered by a physician.

Which combination of medications the physician chooses will vary depending on a variety of factors including the patient’s condition and physician preference. A common combination is a sedative with a short-acting paralytic, though analgesics may also be utilized. This episode provides an overview of the medications commonly utilized for RSI:

Propofol
Succinylcholine
Rocuronium
Vecuronium
Etomidate
Ketamine
Fentanyl
Midazolam

___________________

You can check out the following from Nurse Mo:

Full Transcript – Read the article and view references

FREE CLASS – If all you’ve heard are nursing school horror stories, then you need this class! Join me in this on-demand session where I dispel all those nursing school myths and show you that YES…you can thrive in nursing school without it taking over your life!

Study Sesh – Change the way you study with this private podcast that includes dynamic audio formats that help you review and test your recall of important nursing concepts on-the-go. Free yourself from your desk with Study Sesh!

Fast Pharmacology – Learn pharmacology concepts in 5 minutes or less in this audio based program. Perfect for on-the-go review!

Pharmacology Success Pack – Want to get a head start on pharmacology? Download the FREE Pharmacology Success Pack

101: So You Wanna Go Back to School Part 1: Nurse Practitioner With Guest Dr. Sandra Pagenta DNP

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Are you considering a career as a nurse practitioner? Do you want to go back to school to transition into an advanced practice nursing role? Join host Sarah Lorenzini and guest Dr. Sandra Pagenta, DNP, as they discuss opportunities available in nursing and how to decide if the nurse practitioner path is the right one for you.

Dr. Sandra Pagenta reflects on the evolution of her nursing career, from her early days as an RN to her current role as a nurse practitioner. She dives into the challenges and rewards of advancing your education and career, finding your niche, and achieving work-life balance.

In this episode, Dr. Sandra Pagenta also gives advice on how nurses can figure out their next career move and create the life they want. Tune in now!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Transitioning from RN to NP
Pros and cons of working as a nurse practitioner
Finding passion and alignment in your career
Exploring a career as an NP
The flexibility of a nursing career

Listen to Sandra's Podcast:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-success-nps-podcast/id1566107516

Check out Sandra's Website:

https://successnps.com/

Follow Success NP's on Social Media:

YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYQYlS9d6m7HyMK7Z1BI5DA

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thesuccessnps

Mentioned in this episode:

Rapid Response Academy Link

Wanna check out Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick? click this link to learn more: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

100: How to Still Love Being a Nurse After 20 Years in the Profession

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Every day that you complete a shift is a day to celebrate because nursing is undoubtedly one of the hardest professions in the world, especially in the last few years. Burnout rates are extremely high, and for good reason, but there are ways to keep your passion for nursing even after decades in the field.

In this milestone 100th episode of Rapid Response RN, host Sarah Lorenzini celebrates 20 years of being a nurse and *still* loving it. It hasn’t been easy, but two decades of continuous learning and navigating the challenges of the job has taught her invaluable lessons on resilience, self-care, and humanity.

Sarah reflects back on her early mistakes and the hard-earned wisdom that’s kept her love for nursing alive, including connecting with patients, growth through education and mentorship, prioritizing physical and mental health, and MORE.

Tune in now to hear Sarah’s "not so secret sauce" for loving nursing after 20 years!

Topics discussed in this episode:

The importance of self-advocacy and self-care
Celebrating your nursing wins
Preventing burnout through learning
Mentorship and driving change

Listen to episode 38, Q&A: How to Effectively and Professionally Advocate For Your Patient… Even When the Provider is Intimidating, on Apple Podcasts!

Mentioned in this episode:

Rapid Response Academy Link

Wanna check out Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick? click this link to learn more: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

99: Hyponatremia: How Did It Happen and Why Is It So Challenging To Treat?

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 07:02:00 -0400

Treating hyponatremia, a condition characterized by low sodium levels in the blood, can be both complicated and quite risky.. Disruptions to the delicate balance of sodium in the body can lead to a spectrum of outcomes, from an asymptomatic presentation to life-threatening seizures, coma, and death.

Through the patient story of Mrs. Saltman, host Sarah Lorenzini explains the role of sodium in the body, breaking down the science of osmosis and electrolytes so nurses can better understand the causes of hyponatremia. She goes over the three levels of hyponatremia that are categorized by blood tonicity and volume status, and how each level impacts the diagnosis and management of hyponatremia.

Sarah also dives into the nuances of treating hyponatremia, including the risks of rapid sodium correction, the importance of knowing a patient’s baseline, the underlying cause of their condition, and more.

This episode will provide nurses with the knowledge needed to recognize the signs of hyponatremia and navigate the risks of treatment. Tune in now!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Introduction to Mrs. Saltman’s case
The pathophysiology of hyponatremia
Causes of hyponatremia
Types of hyponatremia: hypertonic, hypotonic, and isotonic
Hyponatremia treatment strategies and their risks

98: "Broken Heart Syndrome" aka Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, also known as “broken heart syndrome,” is hard to diagnose because its symptoms mimic more common conditions like acute coronary syndrome. This stress-induced cardiomyopathy presents a mysterious challenge to nurses, as you’ll hear in today’s patient story.

Host Sarah Lorenzini shares the case of a patient who went from experiencing shortness of breath and nausea to a serious cardiac emergency. She breaks down the patient’s initial presentation, their quick decline featuring hypoxia and flash pulmonary edema, and ultimate diagnosis of takotsubo cardiomyopathy.

In this episode, Sarah dives into the pathophysiology of takotsubo cardiomyopathy, covering how emotional or physical stress leads to the condition. She goes over its symptoms and treatment, as well as the role of nurses in managing the condition.

Tune in now to find out how you should be handling similar cardiac emergencies!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy: a patient case study
The pathophysiology of takotsubo cardiomyopathy
Diagnosing takotsubo cardiomyopathy
How to effectively treat takotsubo cardiomyopathy
Final takeaways for nurses

Listen to Episode 82: Sympathetic Crashing Acute Pulmonary Edema: That Time My Patient Went From Stable A-Fib RVR to Intubated in 30 Minutes! https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/82-sympathetic-crashing-acute-pulmonary-edema-that/id1535997752?i=1000637926574

Mentioned in this episode:

Rapid Response Academy Link

Wanna check out Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick? click this link to learn more: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

97: Status Asthmaticus Part 2: Strategies to Manage the Crashing Asthmatic

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Part two of our crashing asthmatic series continues with a comprehensive look into what exactly happened in last week’s nightmare patient case.

Host Sarah Lorenzini dives into the pathophysiology of status asthmaticus, explaining the physiological changes in the airways during severe asthma attacks and what makes these cases resistant to standard treatment. She also breaks down treat options for patients approaching the asthma spiral of death, from pharmacological interventions to last-resort interventions like ECMO.

This episode highlights the key role of nurses in the care of status asthmaticus, including the importance of recognizing the red flags like “silent chest” and managing patient anxiety.

Tune in to learn everything you need to know about caring for a crashing asthmatic!

Topics discussed in this episode:

The pathophysiology of asthma
Signs of asthma exacerbation
Treating a progression of asthma symptoms
The danger of silent chest
Advanced interventions for status asthmaticus
Tips for sedation and intubation
Understanding your role as a nurse

Read this article that supports the use of magnesium for asthma:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24865567/

Read this article that shows magnesium does not help in asthma cases:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1536485/

....and there are so many more conflicting studies like these ☝️

Listen to Episode 73: Resuscitate Before You Intubate: How to NOT KILL YOUR PATIENT When You Intubate https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/73-resuscitate-before-you-intubate-how-to-not-kill/id1535997752?i=1000630431016

Mentioned in this episode:

Rapid Response Academy Link

Wanna check out Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick? click this link to learn more: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

96: Nightmare Case: The Young Crashing Asthmatic Patient With Guest Brooklyn RN

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Severe asthma leads to cardiac arrest in today’s gripping patient story. Brooklyn, an ER Nurse joins host Sarah Lorenzini to discuss a nightmare case of a young asthmatic patient and her team’s desperate fight to stabilize him.

Despite various interventions, from albuterol, magnesium, BiPap, ketamine, and more, the patient's condition deteriorated, requiring intubation and ultimately transfer to an ECMO center to save the patient’s life. This episode highlights the challenges faced by smaller hospitals with fewer resources and the heroic care this patient received despite so many challenges.

Check out part one of our series on caring for the crashing asthmatic!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Initial treatment of Brooklyn’s asthma patient
The patient’s escalating condition and challenges in care
Unpacking every tool in the asthma treatment toolbox
Managing complications from autopeep to pneumothorax to cardiac arrest
Key takeaways from this patient case

Mentioned in this episode:

Rapid Response Academy Link

Wanna check out Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick? click this link to learn more: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

95: "That's a Weird Blood Pressure!": Recognizing and Interpreting Wide and Narrow Pulse Pressures

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Do you know how to recognize a wide or narrow pulse pressure and what each finding tells you about your patient? Following last week's discussion on the shock index, host Sarah Lorenzini introduces pulse pressure as another essential tool in the nurse's assessment arsenal.

In this episode, Sarah outlines how to measure and interpret pulse pressure. She shares two patient stories to illustrate how variations in pulse pressure can indicate different underlying conditions: The case study of Mrs. D highlights the implications of narrow pulse pressure, and the case study of Mr. S explores wide pulse pressure.

Through these examples, Sarah emphasizes how pulse pressure can be a key indicator in patient assessments while also clarifying its limitations. Listen in now!

Topics discussed in this episode:

The case study of Mrs. D
Measuring and interpreting pulse pressure
Causes of narrow pulse pressure
Causes of wide pulse pressure
The case study of Mr. S
Limitations to pulse pressure
Using pulse pressure as a diagnostic tool

Mentioned in this episode:

94: How Valuable is the Shock Index?

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Looking at HR or Blood Pressure alone as determinants of how stable the patient is can lead us astray. The Shock Index allows us to detect when patients are declining… while they are still compensating. Shock Index = HR/SBP… but how can we use this tool?

A patient’s vital signs can appear normal, meanwhile they’re on the brink of shock. This was exactly the case of Mr. Fields, a patient admitted to the ER after falling off his tractor. Initially, his vitals didn't raise alarms but there were signs pointing to a more serious situation — including a shock index of greater than one.

In this episode, host Sarah Lorenzini dives into the critical role shock index plays in determining how sick patients are and improving their outcomes, especially in emergency settings. She breaks down the calculation of shock index, its limitations in screening for all types of shock, and practical applications in patient care.

Tune in now to explore how you can apply this vital tool in the assessment and treatment of patients!

Topics discussed in this episode:

The case study of Mr. Fields
Understanding shock index
How to calculate shock index… the easy way
Clinical applications of shock index
Limitations of shock index

Learn more about shock index: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6698590/#:~:text=Shock%20index%20(SI)%20is%20defined,sepsis%2C%20and%20ruptured%20ectopic%20pregnancy

Mentioned in this episode:

Rapid Response Academy Link

Wanna check out Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick? click this link to learn more: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

93: What the Heck is BRASH Syndrome?

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Are you familiar with BRASH syndrome? The complex interplay of Bradycardia, Renal Failure, Atrioventricular Block, Shock, and Hyperkalemia forms a collection of clinical signs known as BRASH syndrome. One condition leads to another which leads to another, heightening the severity of symptoms. Fortunately, it’s easy to manage if you know what you are treating.

In this episode, Sarah Lorenzini breaks down the pathophysiology of BRASH syndrome as she examines a patient case study. Starting with its hallmark features and expanding into the synergistic effects of AV nodal blockers, hyperkalemia and renal failure, she provides insights on recognizing the signs of BRASH syndrome early and the importance of understanding the interplay among its components.

Sarah outlines the treatment priorities for BRASH syndrome and highlights the importance of identifying the root cause of symptoms to prevent a cascade of complications leading to shock.

Tune in to strengthen your knowledge of BRASH syndrome!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Case study analysis of a BRASH patient
Components of BRASH Syndrome
How BRASH developed in Sarah’s patient
Treatment and management of BRASH Syndrome
The role of calcium in treatment of BRASH

You can learn more about BRASH Syndrome at the Internet Book of Critical Care Website:

https://emcrit.org/ibcc/brash/

Mentioned in this episode:

Rapid Response Academy Link

Wanna check out Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick? click this link to learn more: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

92: How to Rock Your Next Stroke Alert With Guest Dr. Eric Wilson RN, AGNP-C, DNP, NREMT-P

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Timing is everything when it comes to strokes because every second without treatment impacts patient outcomes. If you’ve ever wasted time debating whether or not to call a stroke alert, you don’t want to miss this episode with Dr. Eric Wilson RN, AGNP-C, DNP, NREMT-P!

During his conversation with host Sarah Lorenzini, Eric emphasizes the urgency of recognizing stroke symptoms early, highlighting unilateral deficits and speech issues as red flags for immediate action. He guides listeners through the assessment of patients using the NIH Stroke Scale, and dives into treatment options and diagnostic procedures.

Eric and Sarah also discuss the role of nurses during a stroke alert, including when one should be called and what nurses can expect. Tune in now to learn how you can rock your next stroke alert!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Identifying stroke symptoms and calling a stroke alert
Assessing the patient and preparing for a stroke alert
The NIH Stroke Scale
Criteria for thrombolytic treatment
Who makes a good candidate for thrombectomy
Treating patients who don’t qualify for a thrombolytic

Mentioned in this episode:

91: Vasopressors and Inotropes 101

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Cardiac output equals heart rate times stroke volume… but what does that really mean and how does it apply to the bedside? This formula (CO = HR x SV) is crucial for nurses to understand in the application of vasopressors and inotropes, so why is it so difficult to memorize their role in improving cardiac output?

This episode is dedicated to breaking down these life-saving medications so you can not only memorize their expected effect on vital signs, but more importantly, understand how they work in the body. Host Sarah Lorenzini provides a comprehensive lesson in these three classes of medications: vasopressors, inopressors and inodilators. She covers how each affects heart rate and stroke volume, diving into the alpha and beta adrenergic receptors that impact cardiac output.

Sarah also shares memory aids to help you remember these concepts and apply them to your clinical decision making.

Tune in now to learn the basics of vasopressors and inotropes!

Topics discussed in this episode:

The role of sympathomimetics to improve cardiac output
Adrenergic and vasopressin receptors
Vasopressor types and medications

Mentioned in this episode:

90: Rhabdomyolysis

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Did you listen to Joey’s story in last week’s mystery episode? If you did and guessed rhabdomyolysis as his diagnosis, congratulations! Joey’s muscle injury from playing a little too hard at football camp resulted in a release of muscle proteins that ultimately caused his kidneys to shut down, which led to his diagnosis and treatment for rhabdomyolysis.

In this episode, host Sarah Lorenzini examines the complexities of the condition, from its pathophysiology to causes and treatment options. You’ll learn the hallmark signs of rhabdomyolysis, the not so obvious signs and symptoms to be aware of, and what to consider when caring for patients.

Tune in for a detailed exploration of rhabdomyolysis!

Mentioned in this episode:

Rapid Response Academy Link

Wanna check out Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick? click this link to learn more: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

89: MYSTERY EPISODE... What's Wrong With Joey?

Fri, 26 Jan 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Are you ready for some diagnosing fun?! In this episode, host Sarah Lorenzini will challenge your diagnostic skills with the mystery case of Joey, a 14-year-old patient who went from playing football at summer camp to being intubated in the ER.

Joey presented with an altered mental status, and was tachycardic, tachypneic and febrile. Once in the ER, he went into ventricular tachycardia, his blood pressure dropped significantly, and he required intubation. As Sarah shares more details on his presentation, labs results and medical history, you’ll get all the critical clues needed to solve this intriguing case.

So, think you can uncover what’s wrong with the patient? Check back next week when Sarah concludes Joey’s story and reveals his mystery diagnosis!

88: Autonomic Dysreflexia: The Who, What, Why, and How to Treat This Perplexing Diagnosis

Fri, 19 Jan 2024 07:00:00 -0400

As host Sarah Lorenzini insightfully explains, “think of autonomic dysreflexia symptoms as the body's way of telling you something is wrong.” Autonomic dysreflexia is a medical emergency that occurs in patients with a spinal cord injury, but it can be hard to recognize because of the body’s confusing responses to stimulation. That’s why it’s crucial for nurses to understand this syndrome and prevent patients from developing any life-threatening complications.

In this episode, host Sarah Lorenzini gives listeners an inside look at a case of autonomic dysreflexia in a quadriplegic patient. She breaks down the patient’s symptoms, medical history and presentation, then shares what helped her recognize the signs of autonomic dysreflexia. As she dives into the pathophysiology of autonomic dysreflexia, you’ll gain a better understanding of this syndrome, including how to manage the symptoms and treat patients.

At first perplexed by this case, it was Sarah’s knowledge and critical thinking that led her to suspect autonomic dysreflexia. Tune in now and take notes so you can diagnose autonomic dysreflexia and deliver timely intervention the next time you encounter it!

Topics discussed in this episode:

The patient’s symptoms and initial assessment
Identifying the problem and starting treatment
Understanding autonomic dysreflexia
Causes and management of autonomic dysreflexia

Mentioned in this episode:

87: Navigating Goals of Care Discussions With Guest, Hospice Nurse AJ

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Goals of care discussions are among the most difficult to navigate as a nurse, BUT there are ways to provide both comfort and clarity to patients and their families in these emotionally charged situations.

In this episode, host Sarah Lorenzini and Hospice Nurse AJ share tips and insights on how to approach these challenging discussions with sensitivity and respect, all while keeping patient’s wishes at the forefront of treatment. From how to start the conversation to addressing concerns, they cover strategies for approaching family members in person or on the phone.

This episode explores not just the words and phrases nurses should employ, but also the compassion that patients and their families need as they step into the grieving process. AJ and Sarah also discuss how to handle various scenarios, including ones where the family is in disagreement or is struggling to make a decision on care.

After listening, you’ll have skills necessary to navigate the nuances of communicating effectively about goals of care and balancing clinical objectives with empathy. Tune in to learn how to have clear, compassionate goals of care discussions!

Topics discussed in this episode:

How to start the conversation on goals of care
Things to say to the family and things to avoid
What DNR means for end of life care
Dealing with conflicting family opinions
Communicating with family by telephone
Preparing the family to see critically ill loved ones
A nurse’s role in facilitating the family’s grieving process

Mentioned in this episode:

86: Making the Transition to the ICU With Guest Sarah Vance

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 10:45:00 -0400

Orienting as a new Nurse in the ICU is much like climbing your first big mountain — both require basic knowledge, passion, and the ability to learn quickly and adapt in a demanding environment. But without these attributes, you have an arduous, possibly insurmountable journey ahead of you.

In this episode, host Sarah Lorenzini and Sarah Vance RN delve into the controversial topic of new grads going straight into the ICU after graduation, exploring the challenges and opportunities it presents for new nurses. They discuss the essential skills and mindset needed to thrive in such an intense setting, emphasizing the crucial role of self-care and support for success in the ICU.

This episode answers common questions from Rapid Response RN listeners, including “what types of people do well in the ICU, and what types of people struggle? What can I do to prepare for a job in the ICU? What are the most common struggles of nurses in the ICU, and how can they mitigate those challenges?”

As a critical care nurse and educator, Sarah’s insights will help you assess your readiness for joining the exciting but challenging world of the ICU. Tune in now!

Topics discussed in this episode:

The debate around new grads joining the ICU
What type of people who do well in the ICU
Challenges new grads face in the ICU
How to prepare for a job in the ICU
Navigating the common struggles of ICU nurses
The importance of learning from your mistakes

Watch this episode on The Rapid Response RN YouTube Channel! https://www.youtube.com/@therapidresponsern/videos

Connect with Sarah Vance!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iseeu_nurse/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iseeu_nurse

Website: https://iseeunurse.com/

85: Just a Spoonful of Sugar Helps Your Patient's Prolapsed Rectum Go Down

Fri, 29 Dec 2023 07:00:00 -0400

What’s your craziest, most shocking nursing story? In this episode, you’ll hear one of host Sarah Lorenzini’s most memorable stories as a rapid response nurse!

Sarah recounts her experience treating a severe case of a prolapsed rectum, describing the unconventional yet effective approach that not only resolved the medical dilemma but caught the attention of Rapid Response RN listeners, becoming the most shared episode of the podcast!

As Sarah delves into this case of rectal prolapse, she explains the science behind using sugar as treatment and important lessons learned from her experience with these rectal prolapse emergencies. Tune in now!

Topics discussed in this episode:

How Sarah responded to a patient’s severe case of prolapsed rectum
Pathophysiology of rectal prolapse
Using sugar to reduce prolapse
Key takeaways from Sarah’s experience

Mentioned in this episode:

RRA mid december ad 2023

If you want to learn more about the Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick... you can click here https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community to find out more and sign up.

84: Urology Tips, Tricks, and Hacks... and When it's Time to Call the Urologist With Guest Dr. Shailen Sehgal

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 07:00:00 -0400

Foreign objects in the bladder, urinary retention, priapism. These are just a few of the urological emergencies host Sarah Lorenzini is discussing with Dr. Shailen Sehgal!

Nurses are the first line of defense in treating emergencies and play an important role in managing their care. In this episode, Dr. Shailen Sehgal explores these emergencies and shares great tips and tricks to treat conditions like testicular torsion, assess for hematuria, and troubleshoot catheter insertions, bladder spasms, and more.

Sarah’s conversation with Dr. Shailen Sehgal highlights the pivotal role of nurses in treating urological emergencies that require quick intervention. After listening, you’ll have a deeper understanding of common urological challenges and better be able to decide when it’s time to stop troubleshooting and call the urologist.

Tune in now to learn from Dr. Shailen Sehgal’s expertise and insights!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Dr. Shailen Sehgal’s interesting urological cases
The role of nurses in urological emergencies
How to diagnose and manage testicular torsion
Troubleshooting Foley catheters and Coude catheters
Tips for female catheter insertion
Dealing with catheter leakage
Continuous bladder irrigation (CBI)
Advice on caring for urology patients

Dr. Shailen Sehgal attended medical school at Cornell University and did his urology residency at the University of Pennsylvania. His fellowship in robotic/minimally invasive surgery was also completed at the University of Pennsylvania. His clinical research fellowship was done at the National Institutes of Health. He is board certified by the American Board of Urology. He practices urology and urologic surgery in Western Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

Dr. Shailen Sehgal, MD is one of the founders of UroCoach, a comprehensive library of urology education videos, free to the public. In these videos, urology topics are explained by practicing urologists in easy-to-understand language for patients, nurses, trainees, and anyone interested in urology!

https://youtube.com/@UroCoach

https://www.instagram.com/urocoaches/

https://www.tiktok.com/@urocoach

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090540351025

Mentioned in this episode:

RRA mid december ad 2023

83: How to Manage Snake Bites as a Nurse and as a Patient With Guest Sealy RN

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 07:00:00 -0400

Snake bite care: where the cost and long-term complications can sting harder than the bite.

Managing snake bites requires quick intervention, making it crucial for nurses to understand how to navigate this type of emergency. So in this episode, host Sarah Lorenzini welcomes Sealy RN to share her firsthand experience of being bitten. As a nurse who has also treated snake bites, she has great insights on the challenges of snake bite care.

Sarah and Sealy discuss the use of antivenom, specifically the short and long-term risks of CroFab, what can happen if a snake bite is left untreated, and the role of nurses in snake bite management.

Sealy's story highlights the importance of prompt and informed treatment, taking charge of your own care and advocating for patients. Plus, you’ll find out what steps you should (and shouldn’t) take if you get bitten by a snake.

Tune in to learn everything you need to know from a nursing and patient perspective!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Sealy’s snakebite story
Snake bite treatment and the recovery process
Snake bite symptoms and possible complications
What to do when you’ve been bitten
Takeaways from Sealy’s experience

Download the SnakeBite 911 app:

https://crofab.com/crofab-resources/snakebite911

82: Sympathetic Crashing Acute Pulmonary Edema: That Time My Patient Went From Stable A-Fib RVR to Intubated in 30 Minutes!

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 07:00:00 -0400

How does AFib RVR escalate into a life-threatening situation in just 30 minutes?

Join host Sarah Lorenzini as she reflects on a perplexing case of sympathetic crashing acute pulmonary edema, also known as flash pulmonary edema. This patient’s rapid deterioration led to an emergency intubation that perplexed the rapid response team, but the patient's true condition became clear in hindsight.

In this episode, Sarah walks us through the case, sharing the patient's presentation and medical history, how the team treated his symptoms, and why their initial interventions failed. She delves into the pathophysiology of SCAPE, the patient’s progression into sympathetic surge, and his ultimate treatment.

Tune in to learn from Sarah’s look back at this patient story!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Sarah’s complex A-Fib RVR patient story
Reflecting on the patient’s treatment and hindsight lessons
The progression of sympathetic crashing acute pulmonary edema (SCAPE)
Causes of SCAPE and stopping the spiral towards death
Managing SCAPE (what to and not to use)
Case summary and key takeaways

Mentioned in this episode:

Coming Soon! Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick

Click here to learn more about the community that Sarah is building: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

81: Mechanical Circulatory Support for Cardiogenic Shock With Guest Christian Guzman, APRN

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 07:00:00 -0400

Host Sarah Lorenzini and Christian Guzman APRN are back to conclude this three-part heart failure series by examining the use of mechanical circulatory support for cardiogenic shock. This episode expands on the topics covered in previous parts, focusing on the application of mechanical circulatory support methods like the intra-aortic balloon pump, Impella, CentriMag, LVADs, and ECMO.

Christian and Sarah review the risks and benefits of each device, when to use them, and the key factors that impact these decisions. They also address the ethical challenges of ECMO, including the clinical judgment involved when determining who’s a good candidate and when to escalate care.

By the end of this episode, you’ll understand how these devices function, their critical role in managing cardiogenic shock in heart failure patients, and the value nurses bring to a multidisciplinary team.

Tune in for a knowledge-packed finale of this comprehensive heart failure series!

Topics discussed in this episode:

The role of mechanical circulatory support devices
Benefits and risks of the intra-aortic balloon pump and Impella device
How to properly use Impella devices
CentriMag and Left Ventricular Assist Devices (LVADs)
The evolution of permanent LVADs
Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) for cardiac support
Challenges and ethical considerations of ECMO
The importance of nursing knowledge and confidence

Connect with Christian Guzman APRN on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/thenerdynursepractitioner/

Watch this episode on The Rapid Response RN YouTube Channel! https://www.youtube.com/@therapidresponsern/videos

Mentioned in this episode:

Coming Soon! Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick

Click here to learn more about the community that Sarah is building: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

80: Medical Management of Cardiogenic Shock With Guest Christian Guzman APRN

Fri, 24 Nov 2023 07:00:00 -0400

Building on last week’s introduction to heart failure, this episode explores the nuances in the medical management of cardiogenic shock. Host Sarah Lorenzini and Christian Guzman APRN continue this three-part heart failure series by completing the case study of a patient in cardiogenic shock, and breaking down key treatment concepts and strategies.

They discuss goal-directed therapy to optimize heart function, with a specific focus on the vital aspects of contractility, afterload, and preload, and their pivotal roles in patient care. As their conversation progresses, they delve into the use of medical interventions, covering the pros and cons of medications used to treat heart failure at each stage from beginning to extremis.

Christian and Sarah go beyond what you’ll read from textbooks, shedding light on the challenges and clinical decision-making process of heart failure care by sharing real life examples and insights.

Tune in now to learn how to assess patients for cardiogenic shock and manage their care at every stage of heart failure!

Topics discussed in this episode:

The treatment of last week’s patient
Goal-directed therapy for heart failure
Methods to increase contractility
Preload optimization
The use of inotropes in heart failure management
Assessing patients for cardiogenic shock
When to use beta blockers for heart failure
When to pull the trigger for mechanical circulatory support

Connect with Christian Guzman APRN on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/thenerdynursepractitioner/

Watch this episode on The Rapid Response RN YouTube Channel! https://www.youtube.com/@therapidresponsern/videos

Mentioned in this episode:

Coming Soon! Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick

Click here to learn more about the community that Sarah is building: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

79: Heart Failure 101 with Guest Christian Guzman APRN

Fri, 17 Nov 2023 07:00:00 -0400

During a normal day gardening, an active woman in her 60s was suddenly struck with chest tightness. Thinking it was just an asthma attack, she tried to let the pain pass. What she didn’t realize was that she was having a full blown myocardial infarction, and this was only the beginning of her journey.

In this episode, host Sarah Lorenzini is joined by her friend, Christian Guzman APRN, to discuss this patient story and the pathophysiology of heart failure. As they go through this case study, Christian provides a comprehensive breakdown of the types of heart failure, the classifications of heart failure, and how chronic heart failure can lead into cardiogenic shock.

Most importantly, you’ll learn the signs and symptoms of heart failure, including the subtle ones that are key for early detection, and find out what’s important to look at on an echocardiogram.

This is just the first installment of a three-part series on heart failure, so be sure to not miss this opening episode. Tune in now!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Pathophysiology of heart failure
Case study of Christian’s heart failure patient
Myocardial infarction symptoms in women
Types of heart failure
Symptoms of right vs left heart failure
The difference between systolic vs diastolic heart failure
How chronic heart failure develops into cardiogenic shock
Early signs of heart failure
SCAI classifications of cardiogenic shock

Connect with Christian Guzman APRN on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/thenerdynursepractitioner/

Watch this episode on The Rapid Response RN YouTube Channel! https://www.youtube.com/@therapidresponsern/videos

Mentioned in this episode:

Coming Soon! Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick

Click here to learn more about the community that Sarah is building: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

78: Healthy vs Hostile: Recognizing the Nursing Red Flags and Green Flags of a Work Environment

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 06:30:00 -0400

Have you ever started a new and promising job, only to discover that it wasn’t the nurturing and supportive space you thought it was? In this episode, host Sarah Lorenzini, armed with nearly two decades of nursing experience in various departments and leadership roles, provides a guideline to spotting the red and green flags that can signal a healthy or hostile workplace.

Sarah explores what makes a healthy work environment, beyond reputation and first impressions, as she does a deep dive into the American Association of Critical Care Nurses' (AACN) six pillars of a healthy work environment. From communication to authentic leadership, she equips both new and seasoned nurses with strategies to assess key characteristics of prospective employers and identify signs of a healthy culture.

For those dedicated to their current organization but seeking a better work culture that allows them to grow in their role, Sarah also reveals how nurses can promote positive change in their current work environment.

Tune in to hear the essential interview questions you should be asking to evaluate potential work environments and make an informed career decision!

Topics discussed in this episode:

The AACN's standards for a healthy work environment
Examples of an unhealthy work environment
How leaders affect work culture
Identifying red flags in potential work environments
Ideas to improve your current work environment

Check out the AACN’s Healthy Work Environments website: https://www.aacn.org/nursing-excellence/healthy-work-environments

Mentioned in this episode:

Coming Soon! Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick

Click here to learn more about the community that Sarah is building: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

77: THE TRAUMA DIAMOND OF DEATH: 4 Treatment Priorities in Trauma Care With Guest Sarah Vance

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 07:00:00 -0400

You may already be familiar with the trauma triad… but in this episode, host Sarah Lorenzini is once again joined by her friend and critical care nurse and educator, Sarah Vance to break down a 4th component to trauma resuscitation. Last week, they discussed the treatment of a trauma patient with neuro and respiratory injuries, but today they’re getting into the “blood and guts” of trauma cases as Sarah Vance RN walks us through a multiple gunshot wound case study. Similar to last week’s patient, this case study highlights how the body’s systems all work together, and sometimes against each other, in trauma cases.

Sarah’s GSW patient’s injuries resulted in massive blood loss, leading to rounds of MTP (massive transfusion protocol), but treating blood loss is more complex than just replacing blood so we’re diving into the pathophysiology of hypothermia, coagulopathy, hypocalcemia, and acidosis — all components of the trauma diamond of death.

As a nursing educator, Sarah Vance RN is the best person to break down these challenging concepts and make them easy to understand. You’ll learn why they happen in trauma cases, how they impact each other, and what you can do to fix these issues and prevent death.

By the end of this episode, you’ll have the knowledge you need to manage the treatment of a trauma patient with major blood loss. Tune in now!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Components of the trauma diamond of death
Sarah’s trauma patient and his treatment
MTP, or Massive Transfusion Protocol
What causes hypothermia in trauma patients
How to support coagulopathy and why it’s important
Hypocalcemia and the role of calcium in the body
Managing calcium levels in trauma cases
Acidosis and its place in the diamond of death
Key lessons from this patient’s case

Watch this episode on The Rapid Response RN YouTube Channel! https://www.youtube.com/@therapidresponsern/videos

Connect with Sarah Vance!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iseeu_nurse/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iseeu_nurse

Website: https://iseeunurse.com/

Mentioned in this episode:

Coming Soon! Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick

Click here to learn more about the community that Sarah is building: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

76: Trauma Breakdown: Beyond the Blood and Guts... A Complicated Case Study with Guest Sarah Vance RN

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 07:00:00 -0400

If you hear “trauma” and immediately think of blood and guts, this episode with host Sarah Lorenzini’s friend, critical care nurse and educator Sarah Vance, will show you that there’s so much more to trauma cases. Because even localized injuries can affect the whole body, and issues can pile up and require conflicting treatments. That’s why trauma cases require an advanced level of assessment and critical thinking skills.

During this episode, Sarah Vance RN tells the story of a patient who was admitted with a brain bleed, orthopedic, and cervical injuries after a motorcycle accident. Like many trauma cases, the patient’s condition got a lot more complicated as his injuries progressed and he sustained secondary injuries within the respiratory system. The patient had a long list of issues, including traumatic head injury, ARDS, fistulas, necrotizing pneumonia, and MORE.

Sarah Vance also goes into more detail on his pathophysiological injuries, as well as how the ICU team assessed and treated his competing issues to lead the patient to a miracle recovery.

Tune in to learn about the management of complex multisystem trauma cases!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Sarah’s career journey and why she took a break from nursing
The trauma patient’s injuries and the initial interventions
The ICU team’s concerns and how his care evolved as more damage set in
What prompted them to place an external ventricular drain
How the patient developed ARDS
How the ICU team treated the patient’s opposing issues
The patient’s long journey to recovery

Connect with Sarah Vance!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iseeu_nurse/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iseeu_nurse

Website: https://iseeunurse.com/

Mentioned in this episode:

Coming Soon! Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick

Click here to learn more about the community that Sarah is building: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

75: Rigors and Other Super Scary Chemotherapy Reactions With Guest Montana, Rapid Response RN

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 07:00:00 -0400

Every nurse knows the havoc chemotherapy wreaks on the body, but most nurses aren’t as knowledgeable on how to treat chemo reactions as, say, chemo or oncology nurses. Even host Sarah Lorenzini is slightly intimidated by unpredictable reactions from chemotherapy! That’s why this episode is centered around those super scary chemotherapy reactions and how to treat them.

To help us dive further into this topic, Sarah is speaking with another rapid response nurse, Montana RN. He has a dramatic patient story to share about rigors, a chemotherapy reaction that occurs as the body is trying to mount a febrile response to the medication. Not only was his patient visibly struggling, but he was hypoxic and there was no doctor available to prescribe medication to treat the reaction.

As Montana and Sarah study this patient’s case, you’ll find out what type of reaction the patient was having and walk away with the knowledge of how to treat chemotherapy reactions and their symptoms, the use of desensitization procedures for reactions to chemo agents, and why it’s important to know your hospital’s chemo reaction protocol.

There’s so much to learn about chemotherapy reactions and the nurse’s role in caring for this patient population during a really scary experience.

Topics discussed in this episode:

What led Montana to become a rapid response nurse
How the patient presented and his initial assessment
What rigors looks like and the pathophysiology behind this scary looking symptom
Treatment options for rigors
Why Montana had to bring the patient to the ER
How to treat a reaction and its symptoms
The patient’s treatment and outcome
Montana’s takeaways from this experience

Mentioned in this episode:

Coming Soon! Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick

Click here to learn more about the community that Sarah is building: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

74: Pediatric Basilar Skull Fracture With Guest Casey BSN, RN, CCRN-CMC, CFRN, CTRN, CEN, TCRN, CPEN, CNRN, NRP

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 07:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Rapid Response RN, host Sarah Lorenzini is joined by Casey BSN, RN, CCRN-CMC, CFRN, CTRN, CEN, TCRN, CPEN, CNRN, NRP. And yes, you read her title right — Casey has a whopping eight certifications and is one of the few nurses with ALL five BCEN certifications. And she’s using her knowledge and skills to advocate for her patients and teach others.

Today, Casey tells the story of a patient who came into the ER after a fall and was later diagnosed with a basilar skull fracture. Complicating the case even more is that the patient was a child under the age of 2, so it was more difficult to assess the signs of his injury. Casey’s hospital provider dismissed the fall as normal childhood injury, but she did what any good nurse would do and followed her hunch that something more was going on.

Casey shares how the patient presented, how they arrived at the diagnosis and treated him. You’ll also learn the telltale signs and symptoms of basilar skull fracture, and how to check for signs of abuse if you see a pediatric head injury.

Tune in for a lesson in pediatric basilar skull fractures, and advocating for your intuition as a new nurse!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Casey’s nursing journey to earn so many certifications
Why Casey’s patient came into the ER and how he presented
What made her think something more was going on
Results of the patient’s CT and their diagnosis
Classic signs and symptoms of basilar skull fractures
How to assess mental status in children
Determining if injury is a sign of child abuse
How they treated the patient for a basilar skull fracture
What nurses need to prioritize when treating a basilar skull fracture

Connect with Casey:

https://www.instagram.com/criticalcarecasey/

Mentioned in this episode:

Coming Soon! Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick

Click here to learn more about the community that Sarah is building: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

73: Resuscitate Before You Intubate: How to NOT KILL YOUR PATIENT When You Intubate

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 07:00:00 -0400

Intubation is a life-saving intervention, but it can also kill your patient! That’s why this follow-up episode to last week’s patient story is covering the process of intubation, what can go wrong and how nurses can mitigate risk factors to avoid bad outcomes like cardiac arrest.

In part two of this intubation series, host Sarah Lorenzini details proper intubation preparation and the role of nurses during intubation. She walks through the entire process from assembling a team to what supplies and medications you need, and how to use them so that you reduce harm to the patient. You’ll hear about key factors to consider when giving patients sedative or paralytic agents, as well as how to prepare for a blood pressure drop after intubation.

This episode is full of useful information that will help you during your next intubation, such as pre-oxygenation strategies, RSI (rapid sequence intubation) vs when to opt for DSI (delayed sequence intubation), and how to mitigate some of the negative side effects that go along with these drugs.

Plus, find out how Sarah’s patient story from last week’s episode ends. Tune in for all this and more!

Topics discussed in this episode:

The dangers of intubation, such as peri-intubation cardiac arrest
What it means to intubate and how to prepare for intubation
Why and how to preoxygenate your patient
Supplies and equipment needed for intubation
The medications we use for intubation and what to expect once you push them
The pathophysiology of why BP drops after intubation
How to prepare for a drop in blood pressure post-intubation
When to opt for delayed sequence intubation
The intubation story of last week’s patient

Mentioned in this episode:

Coming Soon! Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick

Click here to learn more about the community that Sarah is building: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

72: How Do You Know When it's Time to Intubate?

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 07:00:00 -0400

Patients get intubated in every department of the hospital… not just the ICU. So it’s important that every nurse know the signs and symptoms of when it’s time to intubate.

Our host Sarah Lorenzini, has been asked the same type of questions about intubation multiple times this week, so we felt it was necessary to address them. Sarah’s extensive knowledge and experience in critical care and rapid response situations has prepared her to be able to provide expertise and insights on this topic, which she wants to share with all of you today!

In this episode, Sarah addresses some common questions related to intubation: how to know when it's time to intubate a patient and what it means when a patient is not protecting their airway.

She shares a story from her own experience to illustrate the importance of recognizing the signs that indicate the need for intubation and walks through some of the obvious, and not so obvious signs that it’s time to intubate.

This episode is packed with experiential knowledge that you don’t want to miss. So tune in for this and more!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Signs to look for to determine when to intubate
How to recognize when a patient is not protecting their airway
What to do when patients are working too hard or not hard enough to improve their oxygen saturation
Recognizing patients who cannot oxygenate or ventilate on their own
Looking beyond the vital signs and focusing on the clinical presentation to determine if a definitive airway is needed

This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique https://www.podcastboutique.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Coming Soon! Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick

Click here to learn more about the community that Sarah is building: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

71: Recognition and Treatment of Septic Shock With Guest Yesha APRN

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 05:54:00 -0400

September is Sepsis Awareness Month, so host Sarah Lorenzini is throwing it back to one of the earliest Rapid Response RN podcast episodes with guest Yesha APRN. This episode tells the story of a patient with sepsis, and it’s one of Sarah’s favorite episodes because it exemplifies all of the classic signs and symptoms of sepsis as well as the important role the nurse plays in caring for septic patients.

Last week, you learned about fluid resuscitation and the potential harm of fluid overload in the treatment of sepsis. In this episode, you’ll hear how Sarah and Yesha’s patient responded to fluid boluses and what made them advocate for a different treatment approach.

Sarah then goes deeper into the pathophysiology of sepsis, indicators of sepsis using SIRS criteria and the qSOFA score, and more indicators any nurse can test without a tool. You’ll also find out how to treat a patient with sepsis, which diagnostics to run, and what you can do to promote a return to homeostasis in your patient.

Tune in to learn the signs and symptoms of sepsis and septic shock, and how to facilitate early detection. Plus, hear Yesha’s takeaways from this patient story that will benefit all nurses in their treatment of sepsis!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Yesha’s nursing journey and updates on her career
How Yesha’s patient presented and his response to fluid administration
What made her decide to call a rapid response nurse, Sarah
Sarah’s assessment of the patient and how they treated him
The pathophysiology of sepsis
SIRS criteria and qSOFA score for prediction of sepsis
What happens in the “septic inflammatory cascade of awfulness”
How to detect sepsis early
Treatment and management of a sepsis patient

Read the article, “Fluid selection & pH-guided fluid resuscitation” by Dr. Josh Farkas, here:

https://emcrit.org/ibcc/fluid/

Mentioned in this episode:

Coming Soon! Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick

Click here to learn more about the community that Sarah is building: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

70: Stop Guessing When Fluid Resuscitating With Guest Corinne RN From FloPatch

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 07:00:00 -0400

Often when a patient’s blood pressure has dropped, we administer fluids without truly knowing the exact reason for the change. Does the patient have low volume, were they vasodilating, or is their heart not squeezing effectively? Fluid resuscitation is not always the answer, but there’s no clear guideline to assess patients without advanced tools that take time and specialists. Enter the FloPatch from Flosonics, an innovative device that quickly measures blood flow in real time.

Fluids can cause damage when given in excess, so it’s crucial for nurses to understand why blood pressure isn’t an adequate indicator of fluid responsiveness, and how a patient can show signs of fluid responsiveness but cardiac output is not increasing. That’s why host Sarah Lorenzini is speaking with Corinne RN to find out more about how Flosonics is helping nurses guide their fluid resuscitation using the portable FloPatch device.

In this episode, Corinne shares patient stories to exhibit how FloPatch can improve patient outcomes, especially in those with sepsis. Corinne and Sarah also discuss the concept of Frank-Starling’s law, the components of stroke volume, and MORE.

FloPatch can help you assess patients and provide precise care. Tune in to find out how it works, the benefits of the product, and why you want to use it at your hospital!

Topics discussed in this episode:

How Corrine RN became so passionate about fluid resuscitation
Why blood pressure isn’t the best tool for determining cardiac output
Factors that influence blood pressure
The relationship between preload, afterload, and contractility
The consequences of fluid overload
Examples of how FloPatch can improve patient care

FloPatch is a game-changing advancement in precision fluid management for critical care, particularly in the management of sepsis. As the world's first wireless, wearable Doppler ultrasound technology, it provides real-time, non-invasive assessments of arterial and venous blood flow. FloPatch empowers clinicians at the bedside to make rapid, data-driven decisions on fluid resuscitation, mitigating risks of complications such as pulmonary edema and acute kidney injury. FloPatch holds the potential to transform the way clinicians approach and manage hemodynamic assessments, paving the way for increased clinical confidence for more efficient, effective, and patient-centered care.

Visit their website to learn more and request a demo: https://flosonicsmedical.com/

Share this podcast episode with your colleagues to spread the word about FloPatch.

Follow FloPatch on Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn for the latest updates and clinical insight:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flopatch_/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Flosonics/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flosonics-medical

Have questions for Corinn? Email her at czehner@flosonicsmedical.com

Join the Sepsis Alliance Summit 2023 during Sepsis Awareness Month! This virtual event is hosted on September 27th to 28th. Learn more here: https://learn.sepsis.org/virtual-conference

Mentioned in this episode:

Coming Soon! Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick

Click here to learn more about the community that Sarah is building: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

69: Diuretic Induced Metabolic Alkalosis with Guest Annie RN

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 07:00:00 -0400

We often are looking for an acidosis when patients present with lethargy but what about when it’s an alkalosis!? In last week’s episode with Annie Fulton RN of the “Up My Nursing Game” podcast, she and host Sarah Lorenzini presented a patient story but left the diagnosis a mystery. You heard why Annie’s patient was admitted and her initial assessment, what caused her to think something more was going on, and why she ruled out sepsis as a diagnosis. Now, find out what her diagnosis was and how she was treated! Hint: today, we’re talking all about diuretic induced metabolic alkalosis.

To start off this episode, Annie recaps her patient’s story, walks us through the patient’s VBG results, and how they arrived at a diagnosis of metabolic alkalosis. Sarah then breaks down the pathophysiology of diuretic induced metabolic alkalosis, including what causes it at the cellular level and how to treat the condition. They specifically talk about contraction alkalosis, and how it’s possible for a patient to be both intravascularly dry but extravascularly still fluid volume overloaded.

Sarah and Annie also discuss the patient’s mild leukocytosis, the clinician’s decision to NOT prescribe antibiotics after a positive urinalysis, and their thoughts on antibiotic stewardship and critical thinking in diagnostics.

Listen to part two of this mystery series to find out how to treat metabolic alkalosis from diuretics, and find out if there’s anything you can do to look out for its symptoms!

Topics discussed in this episode:

How Annie’s patient presented and her initial treatment
The results of the patient's VBG
What can cause metabolic alkalosis and its symptoms
Intravascular vs extravascular fluid volume status
Contraction alkalosis and how to treat it
How Annie’s patient was treated
The right time to stop and start diuresis on a patient
Why the patient’s clinician declined to give antibiotics
The debate on sepsis mimics

Listen to Annie Fulton’s Up My Nursing Game Podcast: http://www.upmynursinggame.com/

Connect with Annie Fulton on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upmynursinggame/

Mentioned in this episode:

Coming Soon! Rapid Response Academy: The Heart and Science of Caring for the Sick

Click here to learn more about the community that Sarah is building: https://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/community

68: MYSTERY EPISODE With Guest Annie Fulton RN

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 07:00:00 -0400

Can you guess what was causing this patient’s unexpected symptoms?

This episode is a little different from the rest, thanks to you, our listeners, for submitting your suggestions and ideas for how these episodes should go, because we are all ears!

One of our listeners suggested we do a mystery episode (thanks Shannon!), and we thought it was brilliant! So, on today’s episode, our host Sarah Lorenzini invites back, podcast host of Up My Nursing Game, registered nurse, friend, and former Rapid Response RN Podcast guest, Annie Fulton, to unravel a patient case study of one of Annie’s patients, but we won’t be revealing the diagnosis just yet.

Sarah and Annie discuss why the patient was admitted to the hospital, Annie’s initial analysis of the patient, medications that were administered, the patient’s vital signs, and physical assessment findings, as well as when and why Annie became concerned for the patient and why she had ruled out sepsis from the diagnosis.

In this mystery episode, we won’t be giving away the actual diagnosis. Instead, for this week we will be leaving you all to try and guess what you think the diagnosis is, and we will reveal the answer in next week’s episode!

Tune in to hear about Annie’s patient, and be sure to check out next week’s episode for the diagnosis reveal!

Topics discussed in this episode:

A little bit about Annie and how her and Sarah met
What Annie’s patient was admitted for
Annie’s initial assessment of her patient
What caused Annie to realize something was wrong with her patient
The patient’s vital signs and how she was flagged for SIRS
Why Annie didn’t think the patient had sepsis

Listen to Annie Fulton’s Up My Nursing Game Podcast: http://www.upmynursinggame.com/

Connect with Annie Fulton on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upmynursinggame/

67: Battling Nursing Burnout: Interview with Nurse Burnout Coach Janna Holterman Part 2

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 07:00:00 -0400

“If you look for the bad, you’ll always find it. If you look for the good, you’ll always find it.” - Sarah’s grandmother

In the second part of our two part series on nursing burnout, our host Sarah Lorenzini continues her conversation with Nurse Burnout Coach Janna Holterman, where they discuss how to reframe your mindset as a nurse to deal with burnout.

We go to nursing school because we want to help people who are suffering and provide care on a heart centered level, not just by fulfilling tasks and making sure patients are getting their medication on time. It’s easy to lose sight of that if you’ve been at it for a while, so reminding yourself to look for those special moments to create beauty in your job as a nurse, is crucial to avoiding burnout and staying fulfilled.

This is what Sarah and Janna discuss in today’s episode to hopefully provide some insight for those who are experiencing burnout or are almost there. Being aware of burnout and how to deal with it is important, not only for you as a nurse to provide the best care possible, but for your own health, longevity, and overall quality of life.

So tune in for a discussion on how to find the beauty in nursing again so you can be the much needed light in a dark room.

Topics discussed in this episode:

How to balance being passive vs. taking a stance
Practicing feeling neutral
The need for nurses to see their patient get better
Importance of looking for the beauty in nursing
The difference between a life coach, therapist, counselor, and fitness trainer
What Janna has to say to nurses who are burnt out

Learn more about Nurse Janna and her burnout coaching services on her website! www.jannaholterman.com

Connect with Nurse Janna on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jannaholtermancoaching/

66: Who is Advocating For You? Interview with Nurse Burnout Coach Janna Holterman Part 1

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 07:00:00 -0400

Nurses are trained to put their patients first, and that oftentimes results in forgoing their own needs. Skipping out on fundamental needs like sleeping and eating healthy meals lead nurses to feel emotionally and physically exhausted, eventually leading to burnout and loss of love for the job.

Nurses spend so much time advocating for patients but forget that it’s equally as important to advocate for themselves. As today’s guest will remind you, “what you resist persists.” Even if you have the ability to push your own needs to the side, they will always catch up with you, whether it’s in the form of an emotional breakdown or apathy towards other parts of your life.

Host Sarah Lorenzini is speaking with Nurse Burnout Coach Janna Holterman in a special two-part series! In this first episode, Janna shares her personal experience with burnout, the symptoms of burnout, and how she helps clients address them.

Janna and Sarah go over tools for overcoming burnout, and how to recognize you’re experiencing burnout and not just normal stress.

If you’re in search of the “perfect” nursing job, stop looking now because there isn’t one. However, YOU have the power to love nursing again and leave work with enough energy to live a happy, healthy life.

Tune in now to learn how to get started!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Janna’s nursing career and experiences with burnout
How she dealt with her own burnout and became a coach
Stress versus burnout
Signs of burnout
How to decide when it’s time to leave a job
The first step to fighting burnout
4 tools for burnout recovery and healing

Learn more about Nurse Janna and her burnout coaching services on her website! www.jannaholterman.com

Connect with Nurse Janna on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jannaholtermancoaching/

65: Benzodiazepine Withdrawal: Severe Symptoms That Make Coming Off Benzos So Difficult

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 21:24:00 -0400

Welcome to part two of our series on benzodiazepines where we will be discussing the other side of benzodiazepines: the challenges of withdrawal.

As healthcare providers, you are taught that benzodiazepines are in fact safe, but our host Sarah Lorenzini wants to offer a different perspective. Do we really need to be administering benzodiazepines as freely as we are taught in school? Of course for life or death situations it is a no brainer, but what about those moments when your patient is just anxious and can’t calm down? Are there other ways to calm your patient down without giving them medication?

These are the questions Sarah wants to explore in the second part of this series, as well as how severe benzodiazepine withdrawal can be. Sarah presents an example of a patient who was going through benzodiazepine withdrawal and how the symptoms were so severe it almost looked like the patient was experiencing a heart attack.

Learn more about benzodiazepines and how you can play an important role in preventing benzodiazepine dependance.

Tune in for this and more!

Topics discussed in this episode:

The signs and symptoms Sarah’s patient was experiencing
How Sarah concluded the patient was in benzo withdrawal
Mild, moderate, and severe benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms
Sarah’s change of perspective on benzodiazepines
How someone is weaned off of benzodiazepines
What to do if your patient is prescribed benzodiazepines
Alternative interventions to treat an anxious patient

64: Benzodiazepine Overdose: Recognition and Treatment When It's an Emergency

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 07:18:00 -0400

In part one of the two part series on benzodiazepines, our host Sarah Lorenzini presents us with a case study about how she treated a benzodiazepine overdose during her time working as an ER Nurse. She walks us through the state her patient was in when she arrived at the hospital and the steps she took when assessing the patient and how to treat her, as well as her thought process along the way.

Benzodiazepine overdoses are a little tricky. All the pieces of the puzzle matter, so having good detective skills and asking the right questions to get a full picture is crucial to treating the patient effectively, which is what Sarah wants to share in today’s episode.

In this episode, you will hear which questions Sarah asked in order to understand the patient’s situation and medical history, as well as the critical thinking required at each step to give you a better idea of how the pieces of the puzzle are found and how they’re put together. You will also hear what type of treatment works for benzodiazepine overdose and what doesn’t, and much more!

You don’t want to miss this one!

Topics discussed in this episode:

The state the patient arrived to the ER and Sarah’s initial assessment
Questions Sarah asked the patient’s roommate
How working in medicine requires being an investigator and counselor
How Flumazenil works and why it was not administered
A list of the signs and symptoms of a benzodiazepine overdose
Tips on how to treat a benzodiazepine overdose

63: The Science and Heart of Organ Donation: An Exclusive Interview With Sean, an Organ Procurement Nurse

Fri, 28 Jul 2023 19:43:00 -0400

One facet of nursing that we don’t learn much about in nursing school is organ donation. It’s such a rewarding experience to help give a person back their life, as you’ll hear from our host and today’s guest.

In this episode, Sarah is speaking with Nurse Sean, organ procurement nurse and host of the “Nurse Dose Podcast.” He goes over the process of organ donation from start to finish, including procuring organs from a patient who is brain dead and also from donors after cardiac death (DCD). Together they discuss the procedures that optimize organs for procurement and transplant, and how they’re allocated.

Nurse Sean has a ton of knowledge about this not so well known aspect of Nursing. By the end of this interview you’ll know how long organs can be preserved after procurement, the best way to approach a family about organ donation, and MORE. Plus, he’s debunking myths about what makes a good candidate for organ donation, and what misconceptions families may need to be educated on.

Tune in to find out what the role of an organ procurement nurse really is, and hear Nurse Sean’s top tips for patient advocacy and approaching families!

Topics discussed in this episode:

What led Nurse Sean into nursing and the transplant ICU
The process of getting a person ready for organ donation
How organs are allocated and teams coordinated
What causes the “dry run”
Procurement of organs in brain dead patients vs DCD patients
The important role of nurses in organ donation
Memorable experiences with organ donation from Sean and Sara
What nurses should know about organ donation
Educating families on the organ donation experience
How to (not) bring up organ donation to your patient/their family
What honor walks mean to patients, families and staff
How to be a patient advocate for organ donation

Connect with Nurse Sean at www.nursedose.org!

Listen to Sean’s podcast, "Nurse Dose Podcast", on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4M47ev6YzUfXrpuPvSzZQn?si=77327f23e05d4ff9

Check out his Etsy for device cheat sheets and ICU resources: www.etsy.com/shop/nursedosepodcast

62: Resuscitation Leadership: Beyond the ABCs of CODE BLUE

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 06:52:00 -0400

“Leadership is not a title. Leadership is influence.”

Our host Sarah Lorenzini wants to highlight a question that nurses are regularly asking her to answer on the Rapid Response Podcast: how can we be better leaders during resuscitation where a fast coordinated effort is necessary?

Knowing your place as a leader, knowing how to delegate and communicate, as well as having the ability to channel your inevitable fight or flight response into peak performance, may feel daunting to a lot of nurses, especially those just starting out. However, you don’t necessarily need years of experience under your belt to be a great leader in a code situation, which is what Sarah wants to share with you all today!

In this episode, you will hear a detailed example of what a good leader in a resuscitation situation embodies, what their role is, what tasks are needed, the level of importance of each task, and how to delegate tasks, as well as how to debrief your team.

This information is invaluable to anyone who is in healthcare, even if you are still in nursing school or just starting your nursing career and you don’t necessarily think of yourself as a leader, this episode is still for you!

Tune in for this and more!

Topics discussed in this episode:

The last thing you should be doing as a leader
Rescuer one, two, three method
Less crucial, yet important tasks that need to be assigned
Closed loop communication and why it is important
Why you should think out loud as a leader
The importance of giving kudos even in an emergency situation
Debriefing as a priority and how to do it
How to lead a moment of silence (or honor) after an unsuccessful code
Using your sympathetic nervous system to your advantage

61: Infective Endocarditis Part 2: Understanding Valvular Damage, Embolic Sequelae, and Clinical Manifestations

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 06:15:00 -0400

Last week, Sarah shared the story of a patient who was finally diagnosed with infective endocarditis after presenting with several symptoms, including fever, tachypnea, chest pain, hypotension and more. In this episode, she’ll further explain how the patient was diagnosed and the pathophysiology of this type of infection.

Sarah goes over how septic emboli form, and the clinical manifestations that result when they travel in the body as well as the risks and signs of valvular damage to look out for when you’ve diagnosed infective endocarditis.

You’ll also learn the areas of the body that can be affected by endocarditis, the diagnostic criteria, and what conditions can predispose a patient to infective endocarditis. Sarah covers the critical role that nurses can play in treating these at-risk patients and how education and compassion can make the biggest difference in the patient’s long term outcome.

Make sure you’re prepared to recognize the signs and symptoms of infective endocarditis and tune into this episode now!

Topics discussed in this episode:

What predisposes a patient to infective endocarditis
Why and how bacteria starts to form
What happens after bacteria has invaded the body
How endocarditis can lead to dysrhythmias
The formation of mobile septic emboli and their danger
How infective endocarditis presents in a patient
Common symptoms of infective endocarditis
How the diagnosis of infective endocarditis is made
The two treatment options for infective endocarditis
The Nurse’s role in caring for this patient population

60: Infective Endocarditis: From Invasion to Destruction

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 10:20:00 -0400

In part one of this two part series, our host Sarah Lorenzini shares a story about a patient she was called to see who was under the care of nurse Clayton, a trusted colleague and previous Rapid Response Podcast guest, after he saw a drop in the patient’s blood pressure and had a gut feeling something wasn’t right.

Sarah walks us through her assessment and how the team came to the conclusion that this patient had infective endocarditis.

In part two of this series, Sarah will elaborate on this case by explaining how bacteria or fungus grows inside the cardiac muscle, how infective endocarditis presents itself in patients, and the different diagnostic criteria for endocarditis.

Topics discussed in this episode:

Clayton’s concern over a patient’s drop in blood pressure
Steps Sarah took to assess the patient
What they found after calling for an expedited echo for the patient
What is infective endocarditis?
Introduction into infective endocarditis

59: Re-Release"Air Don't Go There!" Air Embolism to the Brain With Guest Marissa, Rapid Response RN

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0400

Our nursing professors cautioned us about the risk of not using proper technique when removing central lines, their warnings sometimes seeming dramatic and unlikely. That’s why this previously released interview with Nurse Marissa is such an important story, because sometimes those rare cases DO happen!

In this episode, Marissa tells the story of a patient that was admitted for her mental status, lethargy and hyperkalemia. She seemed to improve but then became unresponsive, and the rapid response team was called. What followed was the surprising discovery of air in her brain, and a probe into how it happened.

At the end of Marissa’s story, host Sarah Lorenzini shares her research on air embolisms, including how air gets into the bloodstream, what happens when it travels to each part of the body, and the level of risk associated with each scenario.

By the end of this episode, you’ll know the steps you can take if your patient pulls their central line just like Marissa’s patient, what signs to look for, and how to treat a cerebral embolus if it occurs. Tune in now!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Marissa’s journey from Med-Surg nurse to Cardiac ICU to Rapid Response
Her patient’s presentation and patient history
What the patient’s CT showed
How they treated the patient for air in the brain
How air gets into the bloodstream
The risk associated with air embolisms
What to do if your patient pulls their own central line
Things to remember about air embolisms

Learn more about the pathophysiology of air embolism in the brain in this article by the American Heart Association, called Accidental Air Embolism: https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/STROKEAHA.119.025340

58: Narcotic Overdose: The Nurse's Vital Role In Initial Stabilization and Management

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0400

When we speak about narcotic overdoses, the first thing we think about is the administration of Narcan or Naloxone. However, our host Sarah Lorenzini shares how that shouldn’t always be the first thing we reach for.

Sarah wants to share why Narcan is her absolute last resort, and why she tries to avoid administering it at all cost. Narcan, or Naloxone, is used to counteract the effects of opioids in the system and while it may help the patient breathe faster, it also blocks the effects of the narcotic that was managing their pain. In some cases, it is totally necessary to use Narcan, but not every time a patient is lethargic or minimally responsive does Narcan need to be administered.

In today’s episode, you will hear a story of a patient Sarah dealt with where she made the decision to administer Narcan, the very first course of action when dealing with an overdose patient, what to look for in an overdose patient, and some pro tips on how to administer Narcan when/if necessary.

This episode is crucial to understanding and changing perspectives on overdose patients that could make a big difference in a life or death situation.

Tune in for this and more!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Why Sarah was alarmed after the quick assessment of the patient
How Sarah delegated to her team of nurses
The list of medications the patient was given
The risk of high CO2 in the system
How to measure a patient’s CO2 level
What symptoms to look for in an overdose patient
What to do first when you discover respiratory depression
Why Sarah tries to avoid Narcan at all costs
Pro Tips on how to administer Narcan (if necessary)

57: What to Expect When Your Patient is Dying with Hospice Nurse Hadley

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0400

Nurses are trained to treat and save lives, but hospice nurses focus on a different set of skills. As host Sarah says in this episode as she speaks with Hadley Vlahos, RN, “fixing isn’t the only great thing we can do as nurses.”

In this episode and her new book, The In-Between, Hadley shares what it’s like to care for patients that are dying and what she’s learned from their end of life wisdom. She offers insight into what to expect as a patient is passing, what type of vernacular to use with grieving families, and lots more.

Hadley and Sarah also discuss hard-to-describe things like the energy shift that happens after a patient passes, and an often unexplainable final burst of energy many patients have when they are close to dying. Plus, Sarah shares her life-changing first experience with a dying hospice patient in the ER.

Whether you plan to work in hospice or not, tune in to hear tips on how you can be a better nurse to dying patients and their families!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Misconceptions about hospice nursing
What you can expect when a patient is dying
Signs that a patient is passing
How nurses can make patients more comfortable in their final days
That final burst of energy before death
Hadley’s most life-changing patient
What you feel after a patient passes
How you can be compassionate towards patient’s loved ones
Tips for speaking to family members about death and dying
Using the words “death” and “dying”
Lessons Hadley has learned from her patients

To purchase Hadley's Book "The In-Between":

https://www.amazon.com/dp/059349993X

Follow Nurse Hadley on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/nurse.hadley/

56: Recap, Top Pearls, and Reflections from the NTI 2023 Conference

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0400

The American Association of Critical Care Nurses hosts an annual conference called NTI. Sarah and her team were able to attend NTI 2023 and they’re all recapping their experiences at the 4-day event in the episode!

Sarah is joined by her team, Walker, Elisabeth, and Ashley, as well as special guest, ICU Nurse Sarah. They recorded each night to share the key takeaways from each day of the conference, from the wonderful people they met and inspirational speakers to the educational lessons in their sessions.

You’ll hear highlights from NTI 2023, including how artificial intelligence is being used in the medical field, life-changing products and technology, the importance of mentorship, and LOTS MORE.

Tune in as Sarah and her fellow nurses discuss what’s new in the world of nursing, and how NTI’s upcoming virtual sessions can help you become a better nurse!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Everyone’s experiences in the pre-conference cadaver lab
The valuable role that mentorship plays in shifting the culture of Nursing
What everyone learned during the first day’s super session and classes
Exciting events from day 2… including the “Critical Care Challenge”
Walker’s discoveries talking to sepsis researchers
The effect of COVID-19 on nursing
Rebuilding after COVID and our path forward as Nurses

Get more information on AACN's National Conference NTI and the upcoming virtual event on June 12-14th!

https://www.aacn.org/conferences-and-events/nti?tab=NTI%20Virtual

Connect with our guest, ICU Nurse Sarah's, Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/iseeu_nurse/

55: Q&A "Can You Please Make ABGs Make Sense?"

Fri, 26 May 2023 13:50:00 -0400

Arterial Blood Gas interpretation is tricky if you aren’t regularly looking at them, and a lot of the information out there makes it really confusing. In today’s episode, you will hear a palatable explanation on what you need to know when looking at ABGs, how the kidneys and lungs work together to maintain pH balance, and examples that will help you wrap your head around all of it.

If you have been looking for a simple explanation of ABGs, this is definitely the episode for you. So be sure to tune in!

Topics discussed in this episode:

How Sarah learned about ABG interpretation
Values to memorize when looking at an ABG
Determining whether the ABG is acidotic or alkalotic
Interpreting the First, Middle, and Last name of the ABG
Examples of metabolic and respiratory derangements
Do you always need an ABG?

This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique http://www.podcastboutique.com

54: ARDS Part 2... Meds, Proning, and ECMO With Guest Christian Guzman APRN

Fri, 19 May 2023 07:00:00 -0400

Concluding this two-part series on acute respiratory distress syndrome, Sarah and Christian Guzman APRN focus on the treatment options of ARDS and how you can make a difference in the outcome of ARDS patients.

They cover the pros and cons of deep sedation, early paralysis, inhaled vasodilators, steroids and more. You’ll also learn about the rationale for prone position therapy and ECMO.

Topics discussed in this episode:

Pharmacological interventions for ARDS
Pros and Cons to sedation and paralytics for patients with ARDS
The controversial use of steroids and more medications
Benefits of prone position therapy
The role of fluid management
How Christian treated his ARDS patient
Determining when to cannulate for ECMO and when take a patient off ECMO
Christian’s tips on recognizing and treating ARDS

If you would like to check out Sarah’s 1hr, 1 CE course, go to: http://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com

To get the FREE Rapid Response RN Assessment Guide and the coupon code for $10 off the cost of the course, message Sarah on Instagram @TheRapidResponseRN and type the word PODCAST!

This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique http://www.podcastboutique.com

53: Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Part 1 With Guest Christian Guzman APRN

Fri, 12 May 2023 16:04:00 -0400

Sarah is welcoming back Christian Guzman APRN on the show for a two-part series on acute respiratory distress syndrome, otherwise known as ARDS. Don’t know how to properly diagnose ARDS, or treat it without further damaging the lungs? This episode will answer your questions!

Christian shares the case of a patient who presented with abnormal symptoms for his age, and how they reached an ARDS diagnosis. ARDS is a secondary diagnosis, so you’ll also hear how to differentiate between ARDS and other conditions like pneumonia, aspiration, congestive heart failure, viral infections, etc.

In this episode, Christian gives a history of ARDS, how our treatment methods have changed, and why lung protective ventilation is essential for care. He also details the 3 types of trauma that can occur with ventilation, including atelectotrauma, barotrauma and volutrauma, plus one newer trauma that’s showing up in the literature.

For a breakdown of the history, pathology, and treatment for ARDS, listen to this conversation!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Christian’s career in critical care
His patient’s unusual presentation in the ER
What the patient’s tests showed and what was concerning
The cause of the patient’s pleural effusion
Diagnostic criteria for ARDS
The progression of ARDS
How we treat ARDS
Types of ventilation trauma
How to prevent harm and promote resting of the lungs

If you would like to check out Sarah’s 1hr, 1 CE course, go to: http://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com

To get the FREE Rapid Response RN Assessment Guide and the coupon code for $10 off the cost of the course, message Sarah on Instagram @TheRapidResponseRN and type the word PODCAST!

This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique http://www.podcastboutique.com

52: Transitioning From Nursing Student to Being 'The Nurse' With Guest Stephanee Beggs RN

Fri, 05 May 2023 08:48:00 -0400

It’s a huge shift in mindset and level of responsibility to go from introducing yourself as “Hi! I’m the nursing student” to “Hi! I will be your Nurse today”. This episode is not just for Nurses who are making that transition from student to “The Nurse” but also for anyone who will be precepting and mentoring new Nurses. Sarah welcomes Stephanee Beggs to the show for an important discussion on how to successfully make this transition.

Stephanee Beggs, BSN, RN, has made the Forbes 30 Under 30 List since leveraging her business background with a new nursing career as CEO of RNExplained. Her company provides fellow nurses and students with educational resources, and her social media content has attracted a large following. After graduating from an accelerated nursing program, Stephanee thought the hardest part of transitioning from student to nurse would be applying the skills taught in simulation labs. In reality, the toughest aspect of the job proved to be very different.

Stephanee shares how she balanced gaining new knowledge and developing her skills in the busy environment of the ER as a new nurse. We also go over the flaws in nursing education, how nursing schools can improve, and the most effective way to train new grads.

If you want to prepare for the transition from nursing student to nurse, including how to deal with tough personalities and what you have to learn on the job, tune in now!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Stephanee’s career journey and nursing education
Her fears and the hardest parts of becoming a nurse
How to get the most out of your new Nurse orientation
Navigating nursing culture and Stephanee’s approach to dealing with “bullies”
How nursing school education could be improved
What hospitals can do to better help nurses transition into their career
Stephanee’s advice to preceptors training the new wave of grads
Our best advice to new nurses

Connect with Stephanee Beggs:

https://www.instagram.com/stephaneebeggs/

https://www.tiktok.com/@stephbegg

https://www.youtube.com/@rnexplained

https://www.etsy.com/shop/RNExplained

If you would like to check out Sarah’s 1hr, 1 CE course, go to: http://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com

To get the FREE Rapid Response RN Assessment Guide and the coupon code for $10 off the cost of the course, message Sarah on Instagram @TheRapidResponseRN and type the word PODCAST!

This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique http://www.podcastboutique.com

51: "Poop in the Lungs?": Aspiration Pneumonia With Guest Nurse Mo From the Straight A Nursing Podcast

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 06:45:00 -0400

Aspiration Pneumonia can come from a variety of sources and sometimes it is difficult to put your finger on when you didn't see your patient aspirate. As the lungs begin to react to the foreign substance, the symptoms start accumulating and it becomes undeniable that aspiration has occurred.

Rapid Response RN always emphasizes the importance of advocating for our patients because patient advocacy is a crucial responsibility that can make the difference in a patient’s health and recovery.

In this episode, Nurse Mo of the Straight A Nursing Podcast shares how she advocated for a patient with aspiration pneumonia. She details what clues led her to believe the patient had a serious issue, why aspiration pneumonia is such a serious condition and how to diagnose it.

We also talk about nursing pet peeves, how to advocate for your patient when there’s opposition, the ins and out of bronchoscopy procedures, and more.

Tune in to learn how you can prevent aspiration, what signs and symptoms to look for, and the best way to advocate for your patient!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Who is Nurse Mo?
Nurse Mo’s initial assessment findings on her patient
How she documented her findings in her notes
What tests the doctor ordered and how they led to the diagnosis of ARDS
Benefits of using a noninvasive cardiac output monitoring device
Surprising findings during the patient’s endoscopy
How they treated the patient
Why aspiration pneumonia is a big issue
What a bronchoscopy is and a nurse’s role during the procedure
How nurses can prevent patients from aspirating

Connect with Nurse Mo and listen to her show, Straight A Nursing Podcast!

https://straightanursingstudent.com/

https://www.instagram.com/straightanurse/

If you would like to check out Sarah’s 1hr, 1 CE course, go to: http://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com

To get the FREE Rapid Response RN Assessment Guide and the coupon code for $10 off the cost of the course, message Sarah on Instagram @TheRapidResponseRN and type the word PODCAST!

This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique http://www.podcastboutique.com

50: What's the Big Deal With Delirium? With Guest Kati Kleber From the FreshRN Podcast

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 00:15:00 -0400

Delirium is acute brain failure. It’s not just an unavoidable consequence of being hospitalized, it is a condition that can be prevented and treated! That’s why Rapid Response RN has teamed up with some of our favorite nursing podcasts for a pod crawl devoted to delirium.

In this episode, Kati Kleber, MSN RN and host of the FreshRN® Podcast, joins our discussion on treating patients with delirium and avoiding its long-term effects. We go over the ABCDEF bundle, common mistakes new nurses make in regards to delirium, and the importance of family engagement in its treatment.

You’ll also hear an inspiring story of how host Sarah Lorenzini used creative solutions, combined with a nurse’s secret weapon (their intuition!), to get a patient with delirium out of the ICU and away from the harmful effects of sedation.

Listen to this stop on the pod crawl for a lesson in delirium treatment, interdisciplinary collaboration, and patient advocacy!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Difficulties with Sarah’s delirium patient
How she overcame tough circumstances and helped the patient
The ABCDEF bundle to prevent delirium
Benefits of family engagement
Why you shouldn’t undervalue physical therapy
How nurses can work together as a team to help patients
Whether or not we should keep intubated patients sedated
Changing procedures with new research
Important advice Sarah has for new nurses
Nursing culture on social media

To hear the rest of the episodes in this podcrawl go to upmynursinggame.com/podcrawl

Kati Kleber, MSN RN is a nurse educator, author, national speaker, host of the FreshRN® Podcast, and owner of FreshRN® – an online platform created to educate, encourage, and motivate newly licensed nurses in innovative ways.

You can find her at https://www.instagram.com/kati_kleber/

If you would like to check out Sarah’s 1hr, 1 CE course, go to: http://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com

To get the FREE Rapid Response RN Assessment Guide and the coupon code for $10 off the cost of the course, message Sarah on Instagram @TheRapidResponseRN and type the word PODCAST!

This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique http://www.podcastboutique.com

49: TACO, TRALI, and All Things Blood Transfusion Reactions

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 11:02:00 -0400

Host Sarah Lorenzini has dealt with situations where a blood transfusion reaction took place, but it is so rare. So she wants to share evidence-based research to shed some light and insight into this very rare, but potentially life threatening situation.

This episode is full of information that you may not learn in nursing school, but is SO useful when treating a patient that is having a blood transfusion reaction.

Tune in to hear this and more!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Synopsis of a rapid response patient after a blood transfusion reaction
First thing to do when you discover a blood transfusion reaction
Blood transfusion reactions in order of prevalence
What does TACO stand for?
Treatment for each blood transfusion reactions
What does TRALI stand for?
Symptoms TACO vs. TRALI and how they are treated

If you would like to check out Sarah’s 1hr, 1 CE course, go to: http://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com

To get the FREE Rapid Response RN Assessment Guide and the coupon code for $10 off the cost of the course, message Sarah on Instagram @TheRapidResponseRN and type the word PODCAST!

This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique http://www.podcastboutique.com

48: Hemorrhagic Stroke with Guest Nurse Alice

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 13:36:00 -0400

We are so excited to be joined by Nurse Alice Benjamin, cardiac clinical nurse specialist, family nurse practitioner, Chief Nursing Officer of Nurse.org, host of the Ask Nurse Alice podcast, and media health expert known as “America’s favorite nurse.”

Highlighting the power of nurses’ intuition, Nurse Alice shares an interesting story of a patient found unresponsive and how her initial assessments led her to call a CODE STROKE. In discussing this case, we cover the difference between ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke, what a brain bleed looks like on a CT, and the importance of advocating for our patients.

During her 23 years as a nurse and community educator, Nurse Alice has picked up a lot of knowledge that helped her treat this patient quickly and notice less common signs of stroke that other medical professionals missed.

Tune in to hear how Nurse Alice cared for this patient, and take note of her best nursing advice!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Nurse Alice’s nursing education and professional journey
Her journey to become a media health expert
How Nurse Alice’s 80-year-old patient presented in the ER
Assessment and diagnosis for hemorrhagic stroke
What you’ll see for an ischemic versus hemorrhagic stroke
How the Monro-Kellie doctrine informs intervention methods
Ways to decrease ICP (increased cranial pressure)
Why you need to pay attention to trends and Cushing’s triad
Nurse Alice’s tips for treating brain bleeds
Her best nursing advice

Learn more about Nurse Alice on her website: https://asknursealice.com/

Check out her podcast, Ask Nurse Alice: https://nurse.org/articles/ask-nurse-alice-podcast/

Connect with Nurse Alice:

https://www.instagram.com/asknursealice/

https://www.facebook.com/AskNurseAlice/

https://twitter.com/AskNurseAlice

https://www.linkedin.com/in/asknursealice/

If you would like to check out Sarah’s 1hr, 1 CE course, go to: http://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com

To get the FREE Rapid Response RN Assessment Guide and the coupon code for $10 off the cost of the course, message Sarah on Instagram @TheRapidResponseRN and type the word PODCAST!

This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique http://www.podcastboutique.com

47: Hyperkalemia Cardiac Arrest Part 2: Treatment

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 21:38:00 -0400

Today we are diving deeper into hyperkalemia cardiac arrest as we present you with part two of last week’s episode where we talked about our hyperkalemia case study Ms. Wanda. If you haven’t already, we highly recommend you check out episode 46!

Ever heard of the hyperkalemia cocktail? This cocktail, when administered in the correct order and the correct way, can help temporarily shoot the potassium back into the cell and lower the serum potassium. Disclaimer here, this treatment does not fix your patient’s potassium, it only buys you time.

In today’s episode you will hear what these cocktails of drugs are, when and how to administer them, how they affect potassium excretion, and much more!

Tune in for some sciency fun and helpful nursing tips!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Treating the source and options for potassium excretion
Cocktail of drugs that shift potassium out of the bloodstream
The order to administer the cocktail of drugs and what each one does
How calcium prevents hyperkalemia induced arrhythmias
Nursing considerations for calcium administration
Tips for IV insulin administration
When to consider re-dosing the patient with the cocktail
How much albuterol to administer and its effects
Best way to administer bicarb to an acidotic patient
They normal saline vs lactated ringers debate for fluid resuscitation

If you would like to check out Sarah’s 1hr, 1 CE course, go to: http://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com

To get the FREE Rapid Response RN Assessment Guide and the coupon code for $10 off the cost of the course, message Sarah on Instagram @TheRapidResponseRN and type the word PODCAST!

This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique http://www.podcastboutique.com

46: Hyperkalemia Cardiac Arrest Part 1

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 21:56:00 -0400

This isn’t your average hyperkalemia story! Today, host Sarah Lorenzini is sharing the story of Ms. Wanda, a frequent visitor to the ER who came in one day complaining of weakness — and then went into cardiac arrest as she was being examined.

In this episode, Sarah walks us through her surprising visit and how she reached the diagnosis of hyperkalemia. You’ll learn the signs of hyperkalemia, how to detect it, and what can cause hyperkalemia.

Listen to part one of Ms. Wanda’s story, and tune in next week to learn the treatment for hyperkalemia!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Background on Sarah’s patient, Ms. Wanda
Why her potassium levels were so high
How hyperkalemia can evolve towards cardiac arrest
Ms. Wanda’s signs of hyperkalemia
Progression of an ECG changes with hyperkalemia
Symptoms of hyperkalemia
Causes of hyperkalemia

Supplement this episode with educational visuals of hyperkalemia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheRapidResponseRN/

If you would like to check out Sarah’s 1hr, 1 CE course, go to: http://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com

To get the FREE Rapid Response RN Assessment Guide and the coupon code for $10 off the cost of the course, message Sarah on Instagram @TheRapidResponseRN and type the word PODCAST!

This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique http://www.podcastboutique.com

45: Q&A: "How Can I Become a Rapid Response Nurse?"

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 06:30:00 -0400

In this episode, host Sarah Lorenzini is answering a frequently asked question: How do I prepare for a career as a rapid response nurse?

Listeners have been coming to her DMs wanting to know, so Sarah’s breaking down the role of a rapid response nurse and what the day-to-day grind might look like. She goes over the skills and work styles that compliment this role, and who should avoid it.

Sarah also shares the two questions she uses to assess every nurse interviewing to join her rapid response team. These two questions don’t just apply to those interested in Rapid Response Nursing… they are helpful to any nurse trying to figure out what type of Nursing role they want to pursue or if it’s time to make the switch to a different specialty. You want to take the time to answer them for yourself!

Rapid response nursing is more than just responding to emergencies, so tune in to find out what the role entails and if it’s right for you.

Topics discussed in this episode:

The role of a rapid response nurse
Aspects of the job you might not expect
Differences between the ER, CVICU, and Rapid Response
Skills you need as a rapid response nurse
How to prepare to be a rapid response nurse
The two interview questions Sarah asks every nurse

If you would like to check out Sarah’s 1hr, 1 CE course, go to: http://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com

To get the FREE Rapid Response RN Assessment Guide and the coupon code for $10 off the cost of the course, message Sarah on Instagram @TheRapidResponseRN and type the word PODCAST!

This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique http://www.podcastboutique.com

44: "Heart Attack" or Anxiety?

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 07:00:00 -0400

“As nurses, we care for a lot of patients with anxiety, right? We have to fight not to get jaded and write off our patient's symptoms. It would've been easy for this nurse to just administer some Xanax or Ativan and gone on with her shift. It's not like the patient's vitals were super high or super low, but this nurse tapped into two things: her intuition and critical thinking skills.”

You may recall this quote from an earlier episode, but we’re revisiting it today because discerning between a heart attack and anxiety can sometimes be tricky. There’s a lot to learn from this story of a patient that was experiencing a huge myocardial infarction but downplayed her symptoms as "just anxiety."

Listen in for a lesson in intuition, critical thinking skills, and MORE!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Sarah’s patient’s initial complaint and symptoms
What concerns the primary Nurse had about the patient’s presentation
Pathophysiology and treatment of inferior wall myocardial infarction
Revisiting the components of “M.O.N.A.”
Applying MONA to inferior wall MI
Nursing considerations for managing patients with a STEMI
How the nurse saved the patient’s life
How you should respond to a patient with chest pain

If you would like to check out Sarah’s 1hr, 1 CE course, go to: http://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com

To get the FREE Rapid Response RN Assessment Guide and the coupon code for $10 off the cost of the course, message Sarah on Instagram @TheRapidResponseRN and type the word PODCAST!

This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique http://www.podcastboutique.com

43: Eisenmenger Syndrome With Guest Nick McGowan RN

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 09:26:00 -0400

Imagine a patient with a SPO2 in the 80’s, not in distress, and acting normal. Their echocardiogram shows an atrial septal defect and a pulmonary artery pressure of 95!!! What can we do for this patient? What could cause such a high PA pressure?

Today’s guest Nick McGowan MSN, RN, CCRN, had this experience and is sharing his patient’s story with Sarah. Nick revisits how this case evolved, from getting test results to discovering his shockingly high PA pressure and transferring the patient to the ICU.

Many nurses haven’t heard of this condition before, but you’ll understand the pathophysiology of Eisenmenger syndrome and its prognosis by the end of this episode. We also go over the importance of establishing goals of care with patients, and the role of nurses in the ICU.

Nick is also a nursing educator, so tune in to learn his helpful tips on treating elevated PA pressures!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Nick finding his passion in intensive care nursing
How he became a Nursing Educator
Initial assessment of his Eisenmenger syndrome patient
The pathophysiology of Eisenmenger syndrome
Treatment options
What to remember when treating elevated PA pressures

Learn more from Nick here:

Website: https://www.ccrnacademy.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ccrnacademy/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/critical_care_academy/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@criticalcareacademy8312

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCRNacademy/

Use the code "RAPID10" to get 10% off his e-learning course just for being a podcast listener! https://www.ccrnacademy.com

AND

If you would like to check out Sarah’s 1hr, 1 CE course, go to: http://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com

To get the FREE Rapid Response RN Assessment Guide and the coupon code for $10 off the cost of the course, message Sarah on Instagram @TheRapidResponseRN and type the word PODCAST!

This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique http://www.podcastboutique.com

42: Dry As a Bone: Acute Kidney Injury

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 09:17:00 -0400

In today’s episode, our host Sarah Lorenzini will be discussing a very important topic that all nurses need to know about, acute kidney injury, which is a common occurrence in hospital settings. As a rapid response nurse Sarah has seen acute kidney injuries often, but the treatment isn’t always cut and dry.

Sarah tells us a story about a patient she was called to see in a rapid response situation and the steps she took to assess and take action when the patient went from a pre-renal kidney injury to intrarenal. She goes through each detail of the patient’s history, how the nurses relayed information, her interactions with the resident doctors, and why she made the decisions she made to get this patient well enough to be discharged from the hospital.

Acute kidney injury is very serious, it exponentially increases their mortality rate and decreases their chances of walking out of the hospital. Every step each health care professional takes with the patient is crucial, like the tedious job of charting those I’s and O’s.

Tune in today to dig a little deeper into this case study to learn about signs you should look out for to prevent a full blown acute kidney injury.

Topics discussed in this episode:

The state Sarah found the patient when she arrived
Steps Sarah took to assess his current situation
What the patient’s nurse reported to Sarah
A common dilemma when faced with hypotension rapid response calls
Why Sarah wanted to send the patient to the PCU
What happened to the patient after being sent to the PCU
What is systemic vascular resistance (SVR)
What is acute kidney injury characterized by
Three basic categories for AKI
The most common cause of prerenal injury
Acute tubular necrosis, what to look for, and how it’s developed
What SIRS, Sepsis, and AKI have to do with each other

If you would like to check out the 1hr, 1 CE course, go to: www.rapidresponseandrescue.com

To get the FREE Rapid Response RN Assessment Guide and the coupon code for $10 off the cost of the course, message Sarah on Instagram @TheRapidResponseRN and type the word PODCAST!

41: Let's Make Priapism Not So Hard... With Guest Walker, Rapid Response RN

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 10:20:00 -0400

It’s a hard conversation, but priapism is a medical emergency!

Sarah Lorenzini is joined by her friend and co-worker, Walker, to discuss the symptoms, causes and treatments of priapism. Walker introduces his priapism patient, and walks us through his initial assessment and treatment. You’ll even learn a little bit of its history, and hear Sarah’s firsthand experiences with priapism.

They explain why priapism is an emergency situation, and why a fast response is needed to avoid complications.

Walker ends the interview with key advice to all nursing professionals, so this is not an episode to miss!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Walker’s nursing journey
Defining priapism
Priapism’s causes and why it’s an emergency
Sarah’s first priapism patient experience as a new grad
Treatments for priapism
Maintaining patient dignity

If you would like to check out the 1hr, 1 CE course, go to: www.rapidresponseandrescue.com

To get the FREE Rapid Response RN Assessment Guide and the coupon code for $10 off the cost of the course, message Sarah on Instagram @TheRapidResponseRN and type the word PODCAST!

40:Why Rapid Response Nursing? Interview With The Nurse Keith Show

Sat, 04 Feb 2023 22:36:00 -0400

Join your host Sarah Lorenzini as she’s interviewed by Keith Carlson, fellow nursing podcaster at The Nurse Keith Show.

With the ability to stay grounded and alert during chaotic situations, Sarah is the epitome of being an anchor in a storm. In this episode, she shares how she found her niche in nursing, why rapid response nursing suits her work style, and how she coaches other nurses through the stress of emergent situations.

Sarah gets fulfillment from helping others, and she does this in so many ways — education through storytelling on her podcast, teaching an online course that’s approved by the American Association of Critical Care Nurses, and as a nursing educator.

Tune in to get a sense of what it’s like to be a rapid response nurse, and learn how you can develop the skills to become a better nurse!

Topics discussed in this episode:

What drew Sarah to rapid response nursing
Discovering what type of nursing works best with your work style
Type of people that do well in rapid response nursing
Common reactions nurses have in a crisis situation
How to train yourself to respond differently to stress
Pursuing advanced certifications
Why Sarah loves being a nursing educator
Helping nurses through her podcast and Rapid Response & Rescue course
What inspired Sarah to lead a rapid response team during the pandemic
People that have inspired Sarah in her life

Check out this episode of The Nurse Keith Show podcast:

https://nursekeith.com/the-excitement-challenges-and-satisfaction-of-rapid-response-nursing/

Earn CEs by listening to Sarah and Keith’s podcast through RNegade:

https://myportal.pro/view_business_/rapid-response-rn-1668811051095x983153652413497300

If you would like to check out the 1hr, 1 CE course, go to: www.rapidresponseandrescue.com

To get the FREE Rapid Response RN Assessment Guide and the coupon code for $10 off the cost of the course, message Sarah on

Instagram

@TheRapidResponseRN and type the word PODCAST!

39: Critical Limb Ischemia

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 16:54:00 -0400

As health care professionals, it is our job to advocate for our patients, even if our efforts are not well received initially. Especially when we are deeply concerned, or uncomfortable with the situation. This can be tough, but it is essential for the health of the patient.

What happens when we are expressing real urgent concern and the provider on the other end doesn’t feel your urgency?

On today’s episode, our host and rapid response nurse Sarah Lorenzini, tells us about an experience she had when providing care for a patient with critical limb ischemia where she knew the patient needed immediate surgery, but the primary care doctor didn’t think it was urgent. Sarah goes through real examples of how she spoke with the doctor, the doctor’s responses, intentional language she used to get her urgency across, and what happened thereafter.

Sarah also explains the classes of critical limb ischemia, symptoms to look out for in varying severity, how to treat patients in each class, and main takeaways for nurses when they are in a situation where they need to be persistent in their advocacy in a situation like this.

Tune in to learn more about critical limb ischemia and what you as a nurse can do to potentially save your patient’s life, or limb.

Topics discussed in this episode:

An example of expressing concern to a medical provider
Words and phrases to use that can help express your concern for the patient
The importance of a doctor being physically present to assess the patient
Don’t neglect the basics
Three classes of critical limb ischemia and what to do in each case
Options for restoring blood flow (revascularization)
Range of symptoms to expect from claudication to amputation
Why waiting too long for revascularization is problematic
Takeaways for nurses who find themselves in this type of situation

If you would like to check out the 1hr, 1 CE course, go to: www.rapidresponseandrescue.com

To get the FREE Rapid Response RN Assessment Guide and the coupon code for $10 off the cost of the course, message Sarah on

Instagram

@TheRapidResponseRN and type the word PODCAST!

38:Q&A: How to Effectively and Professionally Advocate For Your Patient… Even When the Provider is Intimidating

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 18:41:00 -0400

Nurses, for the most part, spend significantly more time with patients compared to physicians. Regardless, it can be difficult for nurses to have their voice heard. For instance, how many times have YOU found yourself apologizing to a physician for just doing your job?

The education from nursing school teaches a lot of vital skills, but one that’s ignored is the need to effectively communicate with other members of an interdisciplinary team. How do you make a physician take into account your concerns for your patient? And, what if you’re dealing with a rude physician?

During this episode of Rapid Response RN, Sarah Lorenzini shares multiple communication strategies she uses when trying to advocate for patients. She also discusses the nurse/physician relationship, and the patience required to work with medical residents and interns.

Tune in to gain a better understanding of how to deal with this issue through her real-life examples!

Topics discussed in this episode:

Power dynamics between nurses and doctors
The SBAR technique
Examples of non-urgent and urgent communication
How to deal with an professional or rude physician
Using the CUS communication method
How to ask “Why” without putting others on the defensive

If you would like to check out the 1hr, 1 CE course, go to: www.rapidresponseandrescue.com

To get the FREE Rapid Response RN Assessment Guide and the coupon code for $10 off the cost of the course, message Sarah on Instagram @TheRapidResponseRN and type the word PODCAST!

This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique http://podcastboutique.com

37: Hypercalcemia Cardiac Arrest with guest Kisha RN

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 16:06:00 -0400

One Sunday during football season, after being pressured by his wife, a reluctant patient gave in and decided to finally come into the ER. His calcium levels were high, but his EKG came back normal, he was experiencing no pain, and seemed healthy and responsive — until he wasn’t.

Telling her story of treating this patient is host Sarah Lorenzini’s friend and fellow nurse, Kisha RN, CEN. She details her experience with this patient, starting from convincing him to stay for further tests, to shocking him 19 times after he coded, and reuniting months later.

Tune in to learn why it wasn’t obvious this patient was about to experience cardiac arrest, and how medical professionals should address similar cases.

You’ll also hear from Kisha and Sarah about the emotional impact of working on a patient who has coded as they fight for their life that is in your hands.

Kisha has helpful takeaways and advice from this case to share, so don’t miss this episode!

Topics discussed in this episode:

What drew Kisha to ER nursing
Kisha tells an ER story of a seemingly healthy patient
The moment Kisha’s patient coded
How Kisha was affected by this patient
Skills that nursing school can’t teach
Explaining hypercalcemia and what causes it
“Stones, bones, groans, moans, and psychiatric overtones”
Routine treatments for hypercalcemia
Why this patient was so memorable
Kisha’s biggest lessons from this case

If you would like to check out the 1hr, 1 CE course, go to: www.rapidresponseandrescue.com

To get the FREE Rapid Response RN Assessment Guide and the coupon code for $10 off the cost of the course, message Sarah on

Instagram

@TheRapidResponseRN and type the word PODCAST!

36: Commotio Cordis: Responding to Sports Related Cardiac Events With Guest Dr. Jeremy Alland, Team Physician for the Chicago Bulls

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 01:26:00 -0400

We are all praying for Buffalo Bills’ safety, Damar Hamlin, after he was hit, causing a cardiac event, sending him to the ICU. This is a nightmare for any athlete, and disheartening for family, friends and fans.

As nurses, medical students, even parents, when viewing these types of tragic events, it is natural to think about what you would do in an emergency situation like this. Especially a parent attending a child’s sporting event, having the knowledge and ability to help out in an emergency can start to feel more important than ever.

On today’s episode, rapid response nurse and our host, Sarah Lorenzini, has invited guest Dr. Jeremy Alland, the official physician for the Chicago Bulls basketball team, to help us unravel what happened to Damar Hamlin on the football field, and how we can better prepare ourselves for cardiac events as medical professionals in non-medical settings.

We go over sports medicine doctor’s roles, common cardiac events that occur in sporting events, how to treat them, and how to stay vigilant (not paranoid) in situations where there is a possibility of a cardiac event.

This episode isn’t only for medical professionals or students, this is also for anyone who wants to be prepared and helpful in emergency situations.

Tune in today to hear practical information and advice that could potentially help save someone’s life.

Topics discussed in this episode:

Dr. Alland’s role as the Chicago Bulls team physician
What happened to Damar Hamlin?
What is commotio cordis?
Explanation of the how sports related cardiac events occur for non-nurses
A possibility of what happened to Damar Hamlin
What happens when a player collapses on the field?
What is an emergency action plan in sports medicine?
Why AEDs are important in an emergency
How was Damar Hamlin able to stand up and collapse again after he was hit?
Advice for lay people and medical professionals witnessing a sports emergency
A free app to download to locate AEDs in your area: Pulse Point AED

https://apps.apple.com/app/id867150971

Who is the best person to do CPR in an emergency?

To connect with Dr. Jeremy Alland, head to his instagram page

@JeremyAllandMD

or check out his podcast by visiting

www.yourdoctorfriendspodcast.com

35: Cardiac Syncope...(DO NOT AMBULATE!)

Tue, 27 Dec 2022 05:58:00 -0400

The most concerning type of syncope! When a patient suddenly passes out from either an arrhythmia or a structural abnormality of the heart... this needs to be investigated and treated... next time they might not wake up from it!

If you love learning from other people's mistakes, you will love this episode of when I didn't realize my patient was in V-tach and walked him back to his room!

We discuss all of the reasons the heart might cause you to pass out and a little about the challenges of being an ER Triage Nurse in this final episode of the year and the last episode in a 4 part series on syncope. So make sure you also check out episode #32, #33, and #34 to learn seizure vs syncope, reflex syncope, and orthostatic syncope.

If you would like to check out the 1hr, 1 CE course, go to:

www.rapidresponseandrescue.com

you can use coupon code: PODCAST22

To get $22 off the cost of the course now until the end of 2022

34: Orthostatic Syncope

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 06:00:00 -0400

This episode covers the two types of orthostatic syncope:

Neurally mediated orthostatic syncope (from conditions with autonomic dysfunction)

and

"non-neurally mediated" orthostatic syncope which is from medications or hypovolemia.

We discuss the diagnostic value and dangers of orthostatic vital signs and how to determine what type of orthostatic syncope your patient has had.

This is part 3 of a 4 part series on syncope so make sure you check out episode #32 and #33.

If you would like to check out the 1hr, 1 CE course, go to:

www.rapidresponseandrescue.com

you can use coupon code: PODCAST22

To get $22 off the cost of the course now until the end of 2022

33: Vasovagal Syncope with guest Annie Fulton

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 03:03:00 -0400

Part 2 of a 4 part series on syncope.

Syncope is one of the top reasons why a rapid response is called... but the question is, what precipitated the syncope?

In this episode we discuss a classic case of vasovagal syncope, in which Annie's patient had a six second pause on his ECG in response to some overwhelming news. We break down why atropine might not be the best intervention for this patient and some of the treatment options for bradycardia.

32: Syncope vs Seizure?

Sat, 26 Nov 2022 05:00:00 -0400

This episode is Part 1 in a 4 part series on syncope.

Syncope and seizure can both present with unresponsiveness. It can be difficult to differentiate between the two very different causes for an unresponsive episode. Fortunately, there are some things to look for to help rule out seizure or confirm that it is the culprit... and they probably aren't the ones you thought you knew.

31: Cardiac Tamponade with Guest Brian McCain

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 16:14:00 -0400

If you are a cardiac nurse, this is your nightmare case! Cardiac Tamponade is a surgical emergency that requires you know more than ACLS to save this patient. The signs and symptoms are subtle and takes an astute clinician to figure it out.

In this episode we discuss all the classic textbook assessment findings from Beck's Triad to pulsus paradoxus as well as some of the more subtle clues of declining cardiac output. We talk through when you need a pericardiocentesis and when it's time to crack the chest and perform an open arrest.

And who better to discuss this case than the person who taught me about cardiac tamponade, my boss and former Cardiac ICU Nurse; Brian McCain.

If you want to be prepared for the absolute worst case scenario for your post cardiac surgery patient, than you're gonna want to take notes on this one.

30: Life Threatening Small Bowel Obstruction

Sun, 30 Oct 2022 00:55:00 -0400

This patient was so backed up, his abdomen looked like he was 9 months pregnant! It was so bad that he was tachycardic and hypotensive. In this episode we talk about common post-surgical complications from constipation, to an ileus, to a small bowel obstruction. We break down diagnostics, pharmacological interventions, and surgical options.

Ever given neostigmine? Then you are gonna want to hear this episode.

Ever heard of Ogilvie's syndrome... if you care for post-surgical patients this is another one you want to be familiar with.

Do you want to listen to an entire episode about poop... than you will love this episode!

It's amazing how inability to poop can cause such severe and even life threatening complications!

29: Managing Pre-Shift Anxiety As a Nurse

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 19:08:00 -0400

Nursing pre-shift anxiety is a thing! Many of us stress ourselves out so much leading up to our shift that we don't sleep or eat well or we feel overwhelmed by the thought of another 12 hour shift and we haven't even stepped foot in the hospital yet. But there is hope...

This episode does not have any hacks for erasing pre-shift anxiety... but rather how to face it.

Sarah discusses the 3 things that she has done to work through the anxiety associated with being a Nurse.

So, if you find yourself dreading your shifts, losing sleep over worry about work, or overly consumed with what could happen, you might want to give this episode a listen.

28: Another Metabolic Acidosis With Christian Guzman APRN

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 05:00:00 -0400

Do you want to grasp ABGs more? Arterial Blood Gases are tricky! It's one thing to memorize the normal ranges for each value, but an astute clinician is able to see the combination of abnormal values and determine what led to this derangement and what to do about it.

In this episode, guest Christian Guzman, Critical Care APRN shares an interesting case of...

SPOILER ALERT: Necrotizing Fasciitis

The patient's presentation was concerning but not very clear what was going on initially. But the Nurse's intuition which led to an ABG helped guide the team towards a diagnosis, prompted Christian to upgrade the patient to the ICU, and ultimately led to the patient making a full recovery.

If you love nerding out with a deep dive into pathophysiology, then you will love this episode.

27: Time is Brain: The Why Behind the Hustle With Stroke

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 06:10:00 -0400

This episode is jam packed with everything you need to know for your next stroke alert!

I was interviewed by Annie Fulton from the Up My Nursing Game Podcast and we got to talk about all things stroke from differentiating between ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke to the life saving interventions of tPA, thrombectomy, ventriculostomies, and the pharmacological interventions for stroke. We discuss the role of the Rapid Response Nurse and the bedside Nurse during a stroke alert. What to assess for first, what information the stroke team is going to need, what are the priorities, and why all the hustle to get to CT?!

If you want to be prepared, not only to recognize the signs and symptoms of stroke, but also anticipate what is next in this patient's course of care from diagnostics to interventions and recovery, this episode is for you!

You can listen to more of Annie's podcasts at https://www.upmynursinggame.com/ and on Apple Podcasts at https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/up-my-nursing-game/id1527032817

You can also find Annie on Instagram @UpMyNursingGame

If you would like to check out my course, you can find it at:

www.RapidResponseandRescue.com

26: Q&A How do you achieve work life balance as a nurse?

Tue, 06 Sep 2022 04:46:00 -0400

Is work life balance even possible as a nurse?

I would say yes... absolutely! But it takes some effort and intentionality.

As a full time nurse, wife, mother of 5, and podcast host, I get to do a lot of juggling.

In this episode, I share 2 nuggets of wisdom that have helped me achieve work/life balance.

Find me on Instagram @TheRapidResponseRN

Facebook: Rapid Response RN Podcast

Online Course: www.RapidResponseandRescue.com

25: When It's Not Black and White: Discussing Legal and Ethical Challenges in Nursing with Patient Safety and Quality Director Rebecca

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 07:50:00 -0400

What about when the patient refuses care that they consented to just yesterday?

What about when the family disagrees about the patient's wishes?

What all am I supposed to document when something goes wrong?

What is my role as a Nurse in discussing end of life goals of care with the family?

These are questions that I get all the time in my inbox and so I invited someone who has to daily navigate these difficult legal and ethical challenges in healthcare.

BONUS EPISODE: What is Rapid Response Nursing?... Interview with the Cup of Nurses Podcast

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 03:58:00 -0400

Here is the link to the youtube video if you prefer to watch the interview:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k1qSfXjx_Zg&t=141s

check out more from Cup of Nurses here:

Cup of Nurses: https://fanlink.to/CONsite

Frontline Warriors: https://fanlink.to/FWsite

Apple https://fanlink.to/Applepodcast

Spotify https://fanlink.to/Spotifypodcast

24: The Surprising Etiology of Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy

Sat, 30 Jul 2022 02:47:00 -0400

Ever heard of "broken heart syndrome"?... it's a real thing. It's also called Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy or stress induced cardiomyopathy. In this episode we discuss a case of a patient who developed this unexpectedly, came very close to death, but made a full recovery. We break down the cause, presentation, and pathophysiology of Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy as well as treatment and prognosis.

23: Q&A: What Nursing Specialty Should I Go Into?

Mon, 04 Jul 2022 04:40:00 -0400

How do you know where you would enjoy working and where you would thrive as a nurse? Well, having worked both ED and ICU and having spent a fair amount of time on the Med-Surg units, I have a lot of observations and perspectives to share. In this episode we talk about what makes each specialty great, what makes it challenging, and what types of nurses do well in each environment. If you are just starting out or been at it a while and are considering making a change, this episode is for you!

22: A-fib RVR With Guest Dr. G the NP

Sat, 18 Jun 2022 16:00:00 -0400

Lets talk through the pathophysiology of Atrial Fibrillation, why it's a problem, and how to treat it. Guest Dr. G the NP, a Cardiology Nurse Practitioner helps drop some knowledge about this very common arrhythmia

21: Q&A: "What Can I Do in a Code Blue Without Getting in the Way?"

Sat, 11 Jun 2022 03:45:00 -0400

Ever wondered what you can do in a code? You are not alone! The most common question I receive regarding emergencies is, "What can I do to be helpful in a code blue situation? I don't want to get in the way". Well, there are a lot of important roles you can take on. In this episode we break down all the roles available and what is expected from each one.

20: COVID Conversations and Our Path Forward As Nurses: With Guests COVID RNs, Andi, Clayton, and Danielle

Sun, 24 Apr 2022 16:01:00 -0400

A conversation with COVID ICU, PCU, and Med/Surg Nurses about their experiences during the pandemic. We discuss some of our memories from this challenging season, the lessons we have learned, and how it has changed us as nurses.

19: Don't Mess Around With Anaphylaxis

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 10:00:00 -0400

Two very different presentations of anaphylaxis help provide an introduction to how to make the diagnosis of anaphylaxis, what to expect from the clinical presentation and evolution towards shock, the pathophysiology of anaphylaxis, and how to treat it.

18: It's Not About the Glucose... Talking Through Diabetic Ketoacidosis With Guest Christian Guzman Critical Care APRN

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 17:45:00 -0400

DKA is so complicated... especially when the patient presents with a normal blood glucose! This case really sets the stage for explaining all of the dangerous aspects of DKA and the multifactorial approach to treating it. Christian and Sarah discuss the pathophysiology... down to the cellular level... of what's happening when patients go into DKA, some of the tests used to diagnose DKA like ABGs, and the delicate balance of fluid status and electrolytes that must be maintained when correcting this metabolic acidosis.

17: This Seems Worse Than Pancreatitis! With Guests Katleen and Marissa

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 05:04:00 -0400

What started as pancreatitis, turned into massive transfusion protocol and a visit to interventional radiology. In this episode, Sarah, Katleen, and Marissa discuss a case that took an unexpected turn for the worse. They break down the pathophysiology of pancreatitis, it's treatment, and the nurse's role in the patient's recovery.

16: "Be still my beating heart": Supraventricular Tachycardia

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 19:39:00 -0400

Supraventricular tachycardia can present very stable, but this patient rapidly declined. In this episode we explain what exactly is happening with SVT, and go through all the different treatment modalities from vagal maneuvers, to medications, to synchronized cardioversion.

15: A Ticking Time Bomb: Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm With Guests Ashley and Corey, Rapid Response RNs

Tue, 25 Jan 2022 05:07:00 -0400

Surprising case that initially sounded like septic shock, but upon further investigation, the patient had a huge abdominal aortic aneurysm that was dissecting. Learn about the clinical presentation, emergent interventions, and the nurse's role in saving this patient's life.

14: "Must'a been a PE": Another Unexpected Cardiac Arrest from a Pulmonary Embolism

Sat, 15 Jan 2022 05:12:00 -0400

Pulmonary Embolisms can pop up out of nowhere. This episode breaks down the pathophysiology of PE and what interventions are needed to stop the PE spiral of death.

13: Air Don't Go There!: Air Embolism to the Brain With Guest Marissa RN

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 04:36:00 -0400

Air embolism to the brain is one of those rare complications of having vascular access. But just like your professor warned you, if you don't pull out the central line properly, you could cause an air embolus!!! Joining me for this episode is Rapid Response Nurse Marissa sharing her experience responding to a patient with altered mental status who had a large cerebral embolus.

12: Baby Mommas and COVID

Tue, 26 Oct 2021 18:15:00 -0400

Young healthy momma gets COVID and becomes critically ill 3 days after her baby is born. But after weeks on the ventilator, she recovers and is re-united with her baby. This podcast breaks down the disease progression of COVID and oxygen delivery modalities at each level. It draws back the curtain to see a glimpse of what COVID nurses have been facing for almost 2 years, and reminds all healthcare workers of the reason we keep fighting for these patients... to see them recover!

11: Funkycardia: Discovering Tachy Brady Syndrome With Guest Kat Jones RN

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 03:41:00 -0400

Great story of a classic presentation of Tachy Brady Syndrome that highlights the important role the bedside nurse plays in monitoring and intervening on the patient's behalf.

10: Nursing Student to the Rescue: Neurological Emergency with Cushing's Triad

Sat, 12 Jun 2021 05:29:00 -0400

My first encounter with a true emergency as a nursing student taught me so much about increased intracranial pressure and the valuable role the nurse plays in detecting changes in the patient. In this episode we discuss the signs and symptoms of increased intracranial pressure, including Cushing's triad.

9: Birthing babies in valet parking with guest, Ronnie Jo CNM

Sun, 14 Mar 2021 03:46:00 -0400

What would you do if you found yourself on the catching end of a birth? In this episode we will discuss what to do if you must deliver a baby with minimal resources outside of the birthing room. Interview with Ronnie Jo, Certified Nurse Midwife to share her passion and expertise in birthing babies.

8: Number 1 Killer: Sepsis with guest Yesha RN

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 05:19:00 -0400

In this episode, we talk about the number one diagnosis that leads to mortality in hospitalized patients. Signs and symptoms of sepsis and how to treat it is something that every nurse needs to know about. Guest Yesha RN shares about a patient that she just "had a bad feeling about" who ended up going into septic shock and required transfer to the ICU.

Check out Dr. Josh Farkas' post about fluid selection and pH balanced fluid resuscitation for a more in depth understanding of why normal saline isn't always your patient's best option for fluid resuscitation.

https://emcrit.org/ibcc/fluid/

7: COPD and BBQ (Part 2)

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 04:19:00 -0400

To learn more about the haldane effect check out this great resource:

https://derangedphysiology.com/main/cicm-primary-exam/required-reading/respiratory-system/Chapter%201142/haldane-effect

and for more details on VQ mismatch check out this site:

https://derangedphysiology.com/main/cicm-primary-exam/required-reading/respiratory-system/Chapter%200732/effects-ventilation-perfusion-mismatch-gas-exchange

6: COPD and BBQ: Tips for effective patient advocacy (Part 1)

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 02:46:00 -0400

Part 1 of a two part episode about how I simultaneously embarrassed myself and effectively advocated for the patient.

5: "Just a spoonful of sugar" helps your patient's prolapsed rectum go down.

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 04:31:00 -0400

A career first... pouring sugar on my patient's rectum... all in a day's work!

4: Keeping your cool when your patient is crashing

Sun, 15 Nov 2020 11:00:00 -0400

A brief summary of this episode

3: "Patient resting comfortably" with hypercapnia

Sun, 08 Nov 2020 14:00:00 -0400

This patient had the trifecta of factors that can cause hypercapnia and the nurse recognized his somnolence as more than him just being due for a nap.

2: "Call the plumber!": STEMI with atypical presentation

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 16:56:00 -0400

On this episode, the patient was having a huge myocardial infarction but downplayed her symptoms as "just anxiety." But the primary RN followed her intuition, advocated for her patient, and saved her life!

1: "Go with your gut": Gastrointestinal Perforation

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 16:42:00 -0400

My very first rapid response call ever as a rapid response nurse. This patient developed the classic signs and symptoms of peritonitis and turned the corner rather quickly toward septic shock.

Who is Sarah and what is this podcast all about?

Thu, 15 Oct 2020 02:14:00 -0400

Just a quick introduction to who the host of the Rapid Response RN Podcast is and why she wanted to do a podcast for nurses.