The World of Critical Care

Arterial Lines

The following episode covers the basics of correctly setting up arterial lines, interpreting waveforms, troubleshooting, and removal. 

Electrolytes: Magnesium

The following episode covers the critical physiological functioning of magnesium. The episode covers lab values, hypomagnesemia and Hypermagnesemia. 
 
For further reading:
I highly recommend Ak lectures for a serious physiological deep dive.
https://aklectures.com
https://emcrit.org/ibcc/hypomagnesemia/
https://emcrit.org/ibcc/hypermagnesemia/
 

Electrolytes: Hyperkalemia

The following episode covers the basics of managing hyperkalemia in the ICU. 
 
 
 
For further reading:
https://emcrit.org/ibcc/hyperkalemia/
 

Electrolytes: Hypokalemia in the CVICU/CICU

Specific considerations of hypokalemia in the CVICU/CICU. 

Electrolytes: Hypokalemia

The following episode covers the basics of hypokalemia. The episode discusses the three primary causes of hypokalemia, the clinical manifestations, and general resuscitation guidance. 
 
For further reading:
https://emcrit.org/ibcc/hypokalemia/
 

Electrolytes: potassium introduction

The following episode covers the basics of potassium as an electrolyte in critical care. 

Spontaneous breathing trial (SBT)

Nurse lead spontaneous breathing trials is a common aspect of recovering hearts in the CVICU. But SBT's are common in a wide variety of ICU settings. This episode covers the basics of successful SBT's. 

Electrolytes: hypernatremia

Hypernatremia occurs in up to one fourth of ICU patients. The following episode covers the basics of understanding the critical factors in hypernatremia. 
 
For further reading:
https://emcrit.org/ibcc/hypernatremia/
 

SvO2 (mixed venous oxygen saturation)

One of the most common lab values I have questions about from new nurses is the SvO2 and how it is used as an approximation for cardiac output. As a followup up to the episode on taking hearts this episode considers one of the most common lab values used in critical care to approximate cardiac output. 

Post-operative ”Hearts” in the CVICU/ICU

Caring for post operative CVOR patients can be one of the most rewarding and challenging shifts for a CVICU/ICU nurse. The following episode covers the basics of pre-operative assessment, intra-operative analysis, and post-operative care. By no means comprehensive, the episode seeks to cover the basics and provide a steady foundation for growth.