Episode 2: Cognition in Crisis: Brain Dysfunction and Sepsis

Description: 

Episode 2 of The Sepsis Spectrum: Sepsis and MODS podcast

Brain dysfunction in sepsis is often under-recognized, yet its impacts can be profound and enduring. This episode focuses on sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE) and delirium, including how neuroinflammation, disrupted perfusion, and metabolic derangements contribute to altered mental status. We’ll examine approaches to mitigate acute neurological decline and delve into the long-term cognitive and psychological consequences that linger even after sepsis resolution.

Learning Objectives: 

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

• Explain the pathophysiological processes underlying sepsis-associated encephalopathy and delirium;
• Recognize early signs of neurological dysfunction and implement non-pharmacological delirium prevention strategies;
• Analyse the impact of acute brain dysfunction on overall patient prognosis and systemic organ function;
• Develop post-acute care plans addressing cognitive and psychological rehabilitation for sepsis survivors.

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:

Kevin J. Tracey, MD

President and CEO, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research

Professor, Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research

Karches Family Distinguished Chair in Medical Research and Professor, Molecular Medicine and Neurosurgery, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell

Executive Vice President, Research, Northwell Health

Kevin J. Tracey, MD, is president and CEO of the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research at Northwell Health, a pioneer of vagus nerve research, and author of The Great Nerve. A leader in the scientific fields of inflammation and neuroscience, his lab studies vagus nerve stimulation and bioelectronic medicine. His contributions include first identifying the therapeutic action of monoclonal anti-TNF antibodies and discovering the specific reflex control of immunity by the nervous system, called the “inflammatory reflex.” These discoveries launched the new scientific field called bioelectronic medicine, which investigates the therapeutic applications of vagus nerve stimulation to cure disease.

Dr. Tracey, a neurosurgeon, pursued studies of inflammation after the mysterious death of a toddler from sepsis who was in his care. His lab has since revealed molecular mechanisms of inflammation and identified the use of vagus nerve stimulation to treat it. An inventor on more than 120 U.S. patents and the author of more than 450 scientific publications, he is among the most highly cited scientists in the world. He co-founded the Global Sepsis Alliance, is the author of Fatal Sequence (Dana Press), and is a national and international lecturer.

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.