
Rapid Response RN
Sarah Lorenzini
Show overview
Rapid Response RN has been publishing since 2020, and across the 6 years since has built a catalogue of 166 episodes, alongside 2 trailers or bonus episodes. That works out to roughly 85 hours of audio in total. Releases follow a fortnightly cadence, with the show now in its 2nd season.
Episodes typically run twenty to thirty-five minutes — most land between 21 min and 41 min — though episode length varies meaningfully from one episode to the next. It is catalogued as a EN-language Health & Fitness show.
The show is actively publishing — the most recent episode landed 5 days ago, with 10 episodes already out so far this year. The busiest year was 2023, with 50 episodes published. Published by Sarah Lorenzini.
From the publisher
Do you want to go from dreading emergencies to feeling confident and ready to jump into action to rescue your patient? Well, this show will let you see emergencies unfold through the eyes of a Rapid Response Nurse. With real life stories from the frontlines of nursing, host Sarah Lorenzini MSN, RN, CCRN, CEN, a Rapid Response Nurse and educator, shares her experiences at rapid response events and breaks down the pathophysiology, pharmacology, and the important role the nurse plays during emergencies. If you want to sharpen your assessment skills and learn how to think like a Rapid Response Nurse, then Sarah is here to share stories, tips, tricks, and mindsets that will prepare you to approach any emergency. Every episode is packed full of exactly what you need to know to handle whatever crisis that could arise on your shift. It’s one thing to get the right answer on the test, but knowing how to detect when YOUR patient is declining and what to do when YOUR patient is crashing is what will make or break your day… and might just save your patient’s life.
Latest Episodes
View all 166 episodes162: Live From NurseCon at Sea: Burnout, Boundaries, and Finding Your Way Back
161: We Got ROSC... Now What? Evidence Based Post Resuscitation Care
160: The 2026 AHA/ACC New PE Guidelines with Dr. Mark Creager

159: Nurse Led Stroke Alert Process with Kat Siaron RN
"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 studyWhy inpatient stroke times lag behind ER stroke timesThe consequences of ordering stat CT instead of Code StrokeSymptoms and prognosis of basilar strokeThe step-by-step Code Stroke processThe rapid response team's role in stroke activationResults and impact of the studyHow they overcame pushback to drive institutional changeStroke mimics and what to do nextHow to advocate for a nurse-led stroke alert at your hospitalRead 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=fulltextMentioned 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 Podcasthttps://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
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 caseThrombolytics vs. thrombectomy explainedEMS destination decision: Choosing primary vs. comprehensive stroke centerHow reperfusion time windows have changedAdvanced imaging: ASPECTS and thrombectomy eligibilityTreatment options for patients presenting outside of the 4.5 hr windowBlood pressure management recommendationsWhat nurses should do in the first 15-30 minutesLVO red flags at the bedsidePediatric ischemic strokeCheck out the new AHA Stroke Guidelines:https://newsroom.heart.org/news/new-guideline-expands-stroke-treatment-for-adults-offers-first-pediatric-stroke-guidanceMentioned 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 Podcasthttps://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
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 everythingHow inflammation leads to stiff lungs, poor compliance, and refractory hypoxemiaWhy lung-protective ventilation is about avoiding harm, not chasing perfect numbersMoving beyond tidal volume: how driving pressure reframes vent managementHow RTs use compliance trends to judge whether lungs are improving or failingPEEP selection: why tables are a guide, not the final answerThe physiology behind proning and why it’s one of the few ARDS interventions that saves livesWhy recruitment maneuvers fell out of favor (and what works instead)What nurses should be watching on the ventilator to catch deterioration earlyConnect with Melody and download her free book:https://melodybishoprt.com/Mentioned in this episode:Rapid Response Academy Winter 2026 Cohorthttps://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/rraCONNECT 📸 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

156: When the Body Rejects the Cure: Graft Verses Host Disease with Anthony RN
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 modelThe patient’s condition weeks after allogenic transplantAnthony's assessment and what raised red flagsWhy early symptoms can get misread or minimizedHow Graft Versus Host Disease developsWhy emotional support is crucial to recoveryAcute vs. chronic Graft Versus Host DiseaseImportant early clues of Graft Versus Host DiseasePriority interventions for Graft Versus Host DiseaseHow Anthony’s app can help bedside nursesYou can connect with Anthony or learn more about his apps here:https://thehumblenurse.com/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 Rapid Response Academy Winter 2026 Cohorthttps://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/rra

155: Rewinding the Clock: Teamwork That Prevents the Code, With Guest Dr. Oscar Mitchell
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 timelineWhat the ideal provider–nurse collaboration looks likeEarly signs of deterioration that were missedWhy some nurses hesitate to call rapid responseThe patient’s vitals at 10AM and why rapid response was calledWhy the documented respiratory rate might not be reliableWhy blood pressure can be misleadingSBAR and CUS frameworks for escalationDr. Mitchell’s research on delays in RRT activation and mortalityEarly warning signs you should never ignoreRegister for the REVIVE Conference and use code RAPID50 to get $50 off!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 Cohorthttps://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/rra

154: Physiology-Guided Sepsis Resuscitation: ANDROMEDA-SHOCK 2, Dynamic Fluid Responsiveness, and SEP-1 with Guest Jaclyn Bond
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 studyWhy dynamic measures of fluid responsiveness matter more than static vitalsWhat recent meta-analysis data shows about physiology-guided fluid strategiesCarotid flow time: what it is, how it’s measured, and how it guides decisionsHemodynamic assessment and bedside limitationsHow FloPatch supports real-time assessment so you can make individualized fluid decisionsSEP-1 2026 guideline updates and why it’s better for patientsHow to apply these principles to your workflow Website: www.flosonicsmedical.com See FloPatch in action: https://hubs.ly/Q03-68Hg0Mentioned in this episode:Rapid Response Academy Winter 2026 Cohorthttps://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/rra

153: Remix: Managing Crashing Pulmonary Embolism Patients
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 missedA real-time rapid response case: stable to crashing in minutesRisk factors for PE and the anticoagulation double-edged swordObstructive shock explained: what’s actually killing the patientRight ventricular failure, septal bowing, and the spiral of deathWhy intubation can worsen outcomes in massive PEVasopressors in PE: norepinephrine, epinephrine, and vasopressinThe unique benefits of vasopressin in obstructive shockThrombolysis vs. thrombectomy: when TPA helps — and when it’s deadlyBedside echo findings that point to massive PEWhy PE patients can crash during transport (and what to always bring)Nursing vigilance, rapid escalation, and activating help earlyWhen perfect care still isn’t enough and the heart of nursing in end-of-life momentsMentioned in this episode:Rapid Response Academy Winter 2026 Cohorthttps://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
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 blocksV/Q mismatch explainedABG findings for low-flow vs. high-flow vs. BiPAPWhen CO₂ is the problem and the benefits of BiPAPKey indicators it’s time to intubate and the dangers of waitingThe myth of resting patients on ventilationHow to accurately assess spontaneous breathing trialsCOPD, oxygen, and the hypoxic drive mythWhat nurses should know about working with RTsConnect with Melody:https://melodybishoprt.com/Mentioned in this episode:Rapid Response Academy Winter 2026 Cohorthttps://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/rra

151: Caring Close to Home: How Point-of-Care EEG and Community Innovation Are Changing ICU Care
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 faceWhy keeping patients close to home mattersHow telemedicine and new tech are transforming rural healthcareWhy subclinical seizures are hard to recognizeHow Zeto’s spot EEG helps nurses keep more patients close to homeThe positive impact on team confidence and patient careHow you can advocate for the tools your community needsLearn more about Zeto here:https://zeto-inc.com/Mentioned in this episode:Rapid Response Academy Winter 2026 Cohorthttps://www.rapidresponseandrescue.com/rra

150: Sepsis-Induced Cardiomyopathy with Dr. Mahmoud Ibrahim MD
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 patientTreatment priorities for the intensivist and nurseSigns that point to more than just sepsisWhy fluids aren’t always the answerBlood pressure management: vasopressors and inotropesPathophysiology of sepsis-induced cardiomyopathyHow a sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy diagnosis changes treatmentThe vasopressin debate for sepsis-induced cardiomyopathyClues your intervention isn’t working and what to do nextHow to prepare the patient for high-risk intubationWhat you need to know about administering sodium bicarbWhy collaboration matters at every step for patient recoveryConnect with Dr. Ibrahim:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/icuboy_meded/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Dg1ZTyfsN/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@icuboy_mededThreads: https://www.threads.com/@icuboy_mededX: https://x.com/icuboy_mededLearn more about the different phenotypes in sepsis induced cardiomyopathy:https://journal.chestnet.org/article/S0012-3692(25)05143-8/abstractMentioned in this episode:Rapid Response Academy Winter 2026 Cohorthttps://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
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 GuidelinesKey improvements: algorithms, clear language, and unified careBig, fundamental changes in the guidelinesHow choking management guidelines have changedThe recommended approach for synchronized cardioversionNew guidelines for post-resuscitation careWhy there’s controversy around mechanical CPR and DSDIV vs. IO access: best practice and key takeawaysThe controversy around epinephrine dosingWhat these changes mean for nurses and code teamsListen 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
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 symptomsDifferential diagnosis and early clinical cluesWhat to look for in your clinical assessmentPathophysiology of pulmonary hypertensionPathophysiology of dilated cardiomyopathyKey physical exam and diagnostic differencesDilated cardiomyopathy interventionsWhy it’s hard to diagnose pulmonary hypertension in the ERNurse priorities when managing patients in the CVICUManaging pulmonary hypertension crises and reducing PVRPearls and pitfalls of treating these conditionsConnect with Natalie:https://www.instagram.com/chatwithnat_rn/Listen to Chat with Nurse Nat on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/7Jh2qe44KipudVKkdXFwWHListen to Chat with Nurse Nat on Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chat-with-nurse-nat/id1815541418Mentioned 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!

147: Recognize, Decompress, Stabilize: Managing a Pneumothorax with Trauma Pete
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 patientThe patient's rapid decline and first interventionsWhy they misread the signs of tension pneumothoraxPneumothorax in intubated vs. non-intubated patientsThe physiology of tension simple vs. tension pneumothoraxBedside clues and diagnostic signs of tension pneumothoraxEarly intervention and treatment prioritiesEmergent needle decompression: timing, technique, and follow-upChest tube placement and management: tips, troubleshooting, and air leaksMentioned in this episode:Listen to the In The Heart of Care Podcasthttps://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
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 patientFirst treatment priorities: ventilation, airway, and warmingThe pathophysiology of drowningMisconceptions about suctioning in drowning patientsThe nurse’s role: documentation and respiratory managementPatient monitoring and signs of deteriorationThe emotional burden of pediatric fatalitiesHow the Get Vitals app supports nurses’ mental healthLearn more about the Get Vitals app:Website - www.getvitals.careInstagram -@getvitalsnowMentioned in this episode:Listen to the In The Heart of Care Podcasthttps://link.cohostpodcasting.com/6598429e-e927-45b0-9b57-7dd34a09d803?d=seASyqjs7

145: Genetic Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy: Sarah and Leslie's Story
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 cardiomyopathiesCommon symptoms and why some people are diagnosed too lateTreatment and lifestyle managementHow Sarah and Leslie finally got diagnosedLeslie’s first cardiac arrest and its impactHow Sarah is processing her diagnosisWhat it feels like to be shocked by your ICDTypes of ICDs: transvenous, SICD, and EV-ICDMental and emotional recovery post-cardiac arrestThe WomenHeart organizationFind support or volunteer with WomenHeart:https://www.womenheart.org/Mentioned in this episode:Listen to the In The Heart of Care Podcasthttps://link.cohostpodcasting.com/6598429e-e927-45b0-9b57-7dd34a09d803?d=seASyqjs7

144: Trauma Plus: Navigating Complex Trauma Care with Flight Nurse Gwenny
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 decompensationAssessing geriatric trauma patients with limited compensatory reservesManaging trauma patients on anticoagulationUnderstanding how hypothermia worsens bleeding and coagulopathyIdentifying and interrupting the trauma “triad of death”Balancing trauma care with underlying medical emergenciesAvoiding anchoring bias when a patient’s story doesn’t add upPrioritizing assessments and interventions during flight transportBuilding a mental checklist for “Trauma Plus” patientsConnect with Nurse Gwenny:Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLhEo_HaDEkPFA_cpQPAz2wInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/nursegwennyrn/TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@nurse.gwenny?_t=8qUUMwXhv5P&_r=1Purchase her books:https://www.nursegwenny.com/shopMentioned in this episode:Listen to the In The Heart of Care Podcasthttps://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
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 flagsPhysical exam and early diagnosticsDifferences in neonatal anatomy and physiologyPreductal vs. postductal vitalsSigns of coarctation of the aortaAssessing for sepsis vs. cardiogenic shockThe dangers of fluid bolusesHow to effectively administer prostaglandinsThe risk and process of neonatal intubationPathophysiology of coarctation of the aortaICU stabilization to optimize cardiac functionKey signs of congenital heart conditionsNatalie’s framework for understanding congenital heart defectsConnect with Natalie:https://www.instagram.com/chatwithnat_rn/Listen to Chat with Nurse Nat on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/7Jh2qe44KipudVKkdXFwWHListen to Chat with Nurse Nat on Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chat-with-nurse-nat/id1815541418Mentioned in this episode:Listen to the In The Heart of Care Podcasthttps://link.cohostpodcasting.com/6598429e-e927-45b0-9b57-7dd34a09d803?d=seASyqjs7