Understanding Cardiovascular Performance and Shock Management in Critical Care

Activity Summary

Required reading for all learners: Implicit Bias impacts patient outcomes

Shock states resulting in hypotension, hypoperfusion and altered cardiovascular performance are a common reason for ICU admission. An understanding of both cardiopulmonary physiology and a complex array of medications and mechanical modalities utilized for support of the patient in shock is vital for this dynamic population. This presentation reviews the roles of fluid resuscitation, cardioactive medications, and mechanical assistive devices in support of the patient in various shock states.

Objectives

Discuss the main components of proper cardiac function, including preload, afterload and contractility.
Identify common treatment modalities to improve cardiovascular function, including fluids, vasopressors, inotropes and antiarrhythmics.
Describe the use of mechanical devices such as IABP, pacers and ventricular-assist devices to support cardiovascular function.

Continuing Education Disclosure Statement

Successful Completion

Learners must complete the entire activity and the associated evaluation to be awarded contact hours AND read Implicit Bias impacts patient outcomes. No partial credit will be awarded.

Accreditation

The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses is accredited as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Commission on Accreditation.
Provider approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing, Provider number CEP 1036, for {contactHours} contact hours.

Disclosures

Any relevant relationship between an ineligible company and an individual with the ability to influence clinical content will be identified by the Nurse Planner within the activity. Any relevant relationship between an ineligible company and an individual with the ability to influence clinical content has been mitigated.

Accreditation refers to recognition of continuing education only and does not imply AACN, ANCC, or CBRN approval or endorsement of any commercial products discussed or displayed in conjunction with this educational activity. Activities with pharmacology hours are to assist the APRN in fulfilling the pharmacotherapeutic education requirements for licensure and certification renewals.

Activities meet the standards for most states that require mandatory continuing education for license and/or certification renewal. AACN recommends consulting with your own state board of nursing or credentialing organization before submitting your certificate of completion.

Refund Policy

Continuing Education Activities are nonrefundable.