The World of Critical Care

The following episode covers the basics of cryoprecipitate (Cryo) use in critical care. The episode covers the formation of cryo, administration basics, common uses and indications. 

The following episodes covers the basics of FFP administration in critical care. 

PRBC's or packed red blood cells are one of the most common blood products administered in critical care. The following episode covers the importance of red blood cells, understanding hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, how lab levels are attained, some of the common reasons to transfuse, transfusion basics, and the critical transfusion associated complications. 

Ringer's Lactate, lactated ringers, LR, Hartmann's solution are all terms used to describe this incredibly versatile crystalloid. The episode covers some of the indications and contra indications of LR administration with a brief overview of common misconceptions. 

The following episode considers the role crystalloids play in critical care. The episode considers how the mechanism of action differers from that of colloids. Considerations are given to understanding how tonicity and osmolality can influence the effect of crystalloid solutions in the body. Specific attention is given to saline solutions with the next episode covering lactated ringers. 

Amidst the continual busyness of the ICU we often forget the power of taking time to pause with our patients and their families, to understand where we are at, and where we are going. Years in the ICU has taught me that often the most important reality of care is the perception of care by patients and their families. Taking time every shift to walk families through the plan of care and answer ques...

Colloids are often misunderstood and take a backseat to crystalloids. The following episode dives into their mechanism of action and the critical role they play in maintaining colloidal osmotic pressure. Albumin takes center stage in the episode as one of the primary colloids administered in the ICU. 

Amidst the continual busyness of the ICU we often forget the power of taking time to pause with our patients and their families, to understand where we are at, and where we are going. Years in the ICU has taught me that often the most important reality of care is the perception of care by patients and their families. Taking time every shift to walk families through the plan of care and answer ques...

The last month of training in the ICU present a unique blend of excitement and trepidation. This episode covers your last few weeks of training in the ICU. For preceptors of ICU nurses this is a critical time to help work on weaknesses, build confidence, and ensure the nurse is ready to take on their first solo shifts. 

After the initial two weeks in the ICU now the fun begins. Weeks 3-8 lay the critical foundations of ICU patient care. Often these weeks are the most difficult for new nurses as they constantly feel overwhelmed. Taking care of two ICU patients while also trying to understand the why behind everything.  As a preceptor it often is equally difficult to navigate high level education with ICU patient c...

This episode covers your first two weeks in the ICU out of nursing school. Often these first two weeks are daunting, both for new nurses of those training them! The episode covers preparation before the first shift, essentials to bring on your first day, and lays out a potential path for each successive shift that best supports new nurses. This episode has both new nurses and preceptors in mind. A...

Should you go right into the ICU out of nursing school? This is a question I get asked frequently as a professional preceptor in the ICU. Take a listen as I explain why new graduate nurses are the ideal ICU nursing candidates. Additionally the episode considers important aspects to consider when choosing the right ICU culture to support your professional growth.