Episode 4: A Gut Feeling: The GI Tract’s Role in Sepsis

Description: 

Episode 4 of The Sepsis Spectrum: Sepsis and MODS podcast

The gut plays a silent yet pivotal role in the trajectory of sepsis. When the intestinal barrier fails, translocation of bacteria and toxins fuels systemic inflammation, exacerbating MODS. This episode explores the “motor and immune” dysfunction of the GI tract in sepsis, impacts on nutrition and absorption, and the cascading effects on the microbiome. We’ll cover both acute management and strategies to support gut recovery post-sepsis.

Learning Objectives: 

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

• Describe how gut barrier dysfunction contributes to systemic inflammation and multi-organ failure in sepsis;
• Differentiate between clinical manifestations of gastrointestinal dysfunction in acute sepsis phases;
• Apply principles of early enteral nutrition and microbiome-preserving interventions in septic patients;
• Evaluate the long-term nutritional and gastrointestinal rehabilitation needs of 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:

Kaveh Hoda, MD

Gastroenterologist

Kaiser Permanente - South San Francisco Medical Center

Kaveh Hoda, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist and hepatologist practicing in San Francisco, California. With over 20 years of experience in internal medicine and digestive health, he brings clinical depth and a humanistic approach to patient care. Beyond the hospital and clinics, Dr. Hoda is the host and producer of the acclaimed podcast, The House of Pod, where he explores medicine, culture, and society with humor and candor. His work bridges the gap between science and storytelling, making complex topics accessible and engaging for diverse audiences.

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.