Episode 1: Sepsis in the Heart of it All: Cardiovascular Dysfunction and Recovery

Description: 

Episode 1 of The Sepsis Spectrum: Sepsis and MODS podcast

Circulatory failure is a hallmark of severe sepsis, but cardiovascular dysfunction extends beyond hypotension. In this episode, we’ll discuss the interplay between vasoplegia, myocardial depression, and distributive shock. Understand the dynamic nature of cardiovascular “shutdown,” why the heart and vessels become unresponsive, and how interventions, both pharmacologic and mechanical, can support hemodynamic recovery. Long-term cardiovascular implications for sepsis survivors will also be explored.

Learning Objectives: 

At the end of the session, the learner should be able to:

• Identify the key mechanisms of cardiovascular dysfunction in sepsis, including vasoplegia and myocardial depression;
• Interpret hemodynamic data to guide fluid resuscitation, vasopressor use, and inotropic support;
• Apply targeted interventions to stabilize circulation and prevent progression to refractory shock;
• Assess the potential for long-term cardiovascular sequelae and formulate post-discharge follow-up strategies.

Target Audience: 

Nurses, advanced practice providers, physicians, emergency responders, pharmacists, medical technologists, respiratory therapists, physical/occupational therapists, infection prevention specialists, data/quality specialists, and more.

Guests:

Mitchell S. V. Elkind, M.D., M.S., FAHA

Chief Science Officer, Brain Health and Stroke

American Heart Association

Mitchell Elkind, MD, MS, FAHA, is the Chief Science Officer, Brain Health and Stroke, of the American Heart Association (AHA). He is expanding the work of AHA from its traditional focus on cardiovascular disease and stroke to brain health more broadly defined. Dr. Elkind develops and leads initiatives on basic and clinical brain science, including stroke, aging and dementia, migraine, traumatic brain injury, and mental health; food Is medicine approaches to health; cardiometabolic and kidney health; digital health; and others. He is also a tenured Professor Emeritus of Neurology and Epidemiology at Columbia University and founding Chief of the Division of Neurology Clinical Outcomes Research and Population Sciences (Neuro CORPS) in the Neurology Department at Columbia. Dr. Elkind received his medical degree from Harvard Medical School and trained in Neurology at Massachusetts General Hospital, both in Boston. He completed a fellowship in Vascular Neurology and Neuroepidemiology at Columbia University Medical Center.

CE Information:

Sepsis Alliance is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

Sepsis Alliance designates this live activity for a maximum of 0.5 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity. 

Provider approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing, Provider Number CEP17068 for 0.8 contact hours.

Other healthcare professionals will receive a certificate of attendance for 0.5 contact hours.

Financial Relationship Disclosures:

All individuals in control of content disclosed no relevant financial relationships.

Medical Disclaimer: 

The information on or available through this site is intended for educational purposes only. Sepsis Alliance does not represent or guarantee that information on or available through this site is applicable to any specific patient’s care or treatment. The educational content on or available through this site does not constitute medical advice from a physician and is not to be used as a substitute for treatment or advice from a practicing physician or other healthcare professional. Sepsis Alliance recommends users consult their physician or healthcare professional regarding any questions about whether the information on or available through this site might apply to their individual treatment or care.