Stop It With the Useless ABGs 

One of the most painful and useless test around is the ABG in an awake patient. Not only is it painful, increases the risk of complications, but it doesn't add anything to clinical care. Serious, it's useless. Check out this video I made about it here. Comment in the video if you disagree (or agree too).

Check out the video here.

Managing Blood Pressure in Neuro Patients

In this podcast episode, Dr. Evie Marcolini discusses a real case involving a 72-year-old patient who experienced a biking accident. The patient's condition raises important questions about managing blood pressure in neuropatients. Dr. Marcolini emphasizes the significance of tailoring blood pressure goals to the specific condition a patient is suffering from, be it Traumatic Brain Injury or Hemorrhagic Stroke. She underscores the need to maintain Cerebral Perfusion Pressure, highlighting the importance of individualized care based on the patient's health history. The episode also touches on various medical considerations, including the use of medications like fentanyl and the role of hydration in ensuring safe intubation. Ultimately, Dr. Marcolini's message is that thoughtful and well-informed blood pressure management can significantly impact patient outcomes.

Check out her amazing video now! Explore ResusX for more content from Evie and our other exceptional faculty!

Physiologically Difficult Airway

In this podcast episode, Dr. Sara Crager discusses the concept of the Physiologically Difficult Airway, emphasizing the importance of making the right decision before intubation. She highlights the need to differentiate between deciding to intubate a patient for a specific reason and knowing how to intubate them safely with various underlying conditions. Sarah suggests that the initial decision to intubate should be carefully considered, with the goal of avoiding intubation when possible. She also discusses the challenges of differentiating between respiratory, hemodynamic, and metabolic issues, which can masquerade as each other, leading to potential mismanagement. Sarah emphasizes the need for a thoughtful and proactive approach to intubation, preparing for potential complications, and addressing underlying physiology.

Key Takeaways:

1. Distinguish between deciding to intubate for a specific reason and knowing how to safely intubate a patient with various underlying conditions.
2. The decision to intubate should be made thoughtfully, with the goal of avoiding intubation when not necessary.
3. Be aware that respiratory, hemodynamic, and metabolic issues can mimic each other, requiring careful differentiation.
4. Proactively anticipate potential physiological challenges during intubation and address them before they become problems.
5. Understand the underlying physiology of acidemia, falling systemic vascular resistance, rising pulmonary vascular resistance, and the effects of positive pressure ventilation when dealing with a physiologically difficult airway.

This podcast is for members only so if you want to listen to the full episode, sign up for membership down below.