Hyperkaleamia? Bicarb Pushes Have to Go!

The treatment of hyperkalemia is always relevant in EM and Critical Care. One common practice is the administration of bicarbonate pushes. However, this might actually do more harm than good.

When it comes to understanding the negative impact of bicarbonate pushes on patients with hyperkalemia, we must first grasp the concept of hypertonic solutions. Bicarbonate, being a hypertonic solution, tends to draw water out of cells. As a result, the treatment inadvertently pulls along essential electrolytes, such as potassium, exacerbating the condition rather than alleviating it. 

Please note that this discussion is limited to bicarb pushes, bicarbonate as a continuous infusion is a talk for a different day.

Want to learn more? Check out the whole video here.

A Curious Case

In this episode of "A Curious Case" with Dr. Swaminathan and Dr. Hedayati, delve into a real-life medical case involving a 35-year-old woman with severe post-partum hemorrhage. The patient's critical condition is vividly described, prompting a detailed discussion on managing such emergencies. They emphasized key aspects such as early recognition, vital signs monitoring, and the importance of a collaborative approach. They walk through the use of uterotonic medications, the initiation of a Massive Transfusion Protocol, and the challenges of dealing with limited resources. The episode provides insight into the complexities of post-partum hemorrhage, offering practical tips for healthcare professionals faced with these challenging clinical scenarios.

Check out this amazing video now and watch the entire ResusX: Reset conference for more content from Anand, Tarlan, and our other all-star faculty!

Left Ventricular Assist Devices

In this podcast episode, Dr. McCloskey discusses Left Ventricular Assist Devices (LVADs) with two guests, Ian and Caitlin. They explore various aspects of LVADs, including their structure, function, troubleshooting, and common issues. They cover the importance of monitoring parameters like MAP, LVAD flow, power, and RPM, as well as interpreting EKG and echocardiogram findings. The podcast outlines different scenarios, such as managing low-flow alarms due to hypovolemia, addressing LVAD pump thrombosis, and responding to LVAD failure during a cardiac event. 

The key takeaways from this episode are as follows:

1. LVAD Basics: Understanding the fundamental structure and function of LVADs is crucial for healthcare professionals dealing with these devices.
2. Troubleshooting Low Flow Alarms: Recognizing the potential causes of low flow alarms, such as hypovolemia, and the importance of assessing the patient's condition thoroughly.
3. Identifying Pump Thrombosis: Recognizing signs of pump thrombosis, which can lead to reduced LVAD performance and the need for timely intervention.
4. Managing LVAD Failure: Responding to LVAD failure during a cardiac event, including initiating ACLS protocols and troubleshooting the device.
5. Communication with Surgeons: Collaborating with cardiac surgeons when dealing with critical LVAD issues, such as pump thrombosis or device malfunction, is essential to ensure the best patient care.

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

Join Us LIVE For Our Next Q & A!

Attention all ResusNation members! Mark your calendars for December 11st and join us  online live where we'll dive into intriguing case discussions, talk about the nuances of resuscitation, and explore any topic that sparks your interest. Participation is key, so come prepared with your burning questions and get ready for an interactive session.

But wait, there's more! To add to the excitement, we'll be giving away some awesome ResusNation swag during the event. It's our way of saying thank you for being an integral part of our community.

This event is only for ResusNation All-Access members, so if you are a memberkeep an eye on your inbox for an exclusive invitation to this live event. And if you haven't joined ResusNation yet, don't miss out on this opportunity! In the next section, discover how you can become a member for the incredible value of just $1 per month. Join us at ResusNation, where you are part of the fastest growing community and bring new insights with your membership. Don't let this chance slip away – become a part of our community of over 500 Resuscitationists today! 

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We're thrilled to offer you a special chance to explore the All-Access Pass at CriticalCareNow for an introductory price of just $1! It's a rare opportunity to dive into a world of comprehensive medical education with virtually nothing to lose.

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**Monthly Learning:** Receive five innovative lectures each month, tailored to enhance your skills in managing critically ill and emergency patients.

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