In this episode of the Saving Lives Podcast, Eddy Joe breaks down a 2025 Journal of Critical Care study examining how the choice of the internal jugular vein for initial central line placement impacts outcomes when patients later need hemodialysis catheters. You'll learn why using the left IJV first may reduce the need for repeat procedures and complications. Essential insights for optimizing central line strategy in the ICU.
The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook
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Citation: Gharaibeh KA, Abdelhafez MO, Guedze KEB, Siddiqi H, Hamadah AM, Verceles AC. Impact of initial jugular vein insertion site selection for central venous catheter placement on hemodialysis catheter complications. J Crit Care. 2025 Jun;87:155011. doi: 10.1016/j.jcrc.2024.155011. Epub 2025 Jan 3. PMID: 39755012.
In this episode, we dive into a new pilot RCT exploring the addition of acetazolamide to furosemide in critically ill patients. We break down the study’s methods, findings, and practical implications for fluid management in the ICU. Could this inexpensive, decades-old drug be the key to sustaining diuresis and preventing metabolic alkalosis? Tune in to find out.
The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook
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Citation:
Maeda A, Brown A, Spano S, Chaba A, Phongphithakchai A, Hikasa Y, Pattamin N, Kitisin N, Nübel J, Nielsen B, Holmes J, Peck L, Young H, Eastwood G, Bellomo R, Neto AS. Furosemide with adjunctive acetazolamide vs furosemide only in critically ill patients: A pilot two-center randomized controlled trial. J Crit Care. 2025 Apr;86:155002. doi: 10.1016/j.jcrc.2024.155002. Epub 2024 Dec 16. PMID: 39689380.
In this episode of the Saving Lives Podcast, we review a July 2025 study from the Journal of Intensive Care comparing methylprednisolone and hydrocortisone for severe pneumonia treatment. The discussion focuses on how these findings may influence clinical decisions, particularly for patients with septic shock.
The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook
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Sato T, Sasabuchi Y, Inokuchi R, Aso S, Yasunaga H, Doi K. Mortality of severe pneumonia treated with methylprednisolone versus hydrocortisone: a propensity-matched analysis. J Intensive Care. 2025 Jul 15;13(1):39. doi: 10.1186/s40560-025-00810-1. PMID: 40665428; PMCID: PMC12261853.
In this episode of the Saving Lives Podcast, we break down a 2025 study from Intensive Care Medicine that emulates a target trial on the use of sodium bicarbonate in ICU patients with metabolic acidosis. With over 6,000 patients across 12 Australian ICUs, the study reveals a small but significant reduction in mortality and RRT use with bicarbonate therapy. Tune in to learn how this could transform our clinical approach to acidemia in the critically ill patients.
The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook
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Citation: Blank SP, Blank RM, Laupland KB, Tabah A, Gill D, Kumar A, White K, Attokaran A, Luke S, Whebell S, Garrett P, McCullough J, McIlroy P, Ramanan M; Queensland Critical Care Research Network (QCCRN). Sodium bicarbonate administration for metabolic acidosis in the intensive care unit: a target trial emulation. Intensive Care Med. 2025 Jun;51(6):1-9. doi: 10.1007/s00134-025-07979-x. Epub 2025 Jun 10. PMID: 40493225; PMCID: PMC12208957.
In this episode of the Saving Lives Podcast, we review a comprehensive 2025 meta-analysis on mortality risk factors in pulmonary embolism. Learn which clinical signs, biomarkers, and imaging findings most strongly predict outcomes — and how they can guide triage and therapy decisions in acute PE cases. A must-listen for anyone managing thromboembolic disease in the critically ill patients.
The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook
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Citation: You W, Fan XY, Chen Y, Wang XL, Song J, Nie CC, Dong Q. Risk Factors for Mortality in Patients with Pulmonary Embolism-A Meta-Analysis. J Intensive Care Med. 2025 May 5:8850666251326539. doi: 10.1177/08850666251326539. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 40320917.
In this episode of the Saving Lives Podcast, we review a 2025 NEJM-Evidence study analyzing over 21,000 cases of severe hyponatremia to determine the safest and most effective correction rates. Learn why moderate correction (8–10 mmol/L/day) may actually reduce mortality, and how central pontine myelinolysis (CPM) remains rare even with faster correction.
The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook
I have written "The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook: A Practical Guide for Healthcare Professionals," a must-read for anyone caring for critically ill patients (check out the reviews)! You have several options to get a physical copy.
Amazon: https://amzn.to/47qJZe1 (Affiliate Link)
My Store: https://eddyjoemd.myshopify.com/products/the-vasopressor-inotrope-handbook (Use "podcast" to save 10%)
Citation: Seethapathy H, Zhao S, Ouyang T, Passos C, Sarang A, Cheung PW, Waikar SS, Steele DJR, Kalim S, Allegretti AS, Ayus JC, Nigwekar SU. Severe Hyponatremia Correction, Mortality, and Central Pontine Myelinolysis. NEJM Evid. 2023 Oct;2(10):EVIDoa2300107. doi: 10.1056/EVIDoa2300107. Epub 2023 Sep 26. PMID: 38320180.
In this episode, we analyze a June 2025 study from the Journal of Intensive Care, which shows that lower hemoglobin levels at admission are strongly associated with worse outcomes in cardiogenic shock. We dive into the data from the FRENSHOCK registry, uncover key subgroup findings, and discuss implications for transfusion strategies. Could this shift how we manage anemia in shock? Tune in and find out.
The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook
I have written "The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook: A Practical Guide for Healthcare Professionals," a must-read for anyone caring for critically ill patients (check out the reviews)! You have several options to get a physical copy.
Amazon: https://amzn.to/47qJZe1 (Affiliate Link)
My Store: https://eddyjoemd.myshopify.com/products/the-vasopressor-inotrope-handbook (Use "podcast" to save 10%)
Citation: Cherbi M, Levy B, Merdji H, Puymirat E, Bonnefoy E, Vardon F, Elbaz M, Morel O, Leurent G, Lamblin N, Gerbaud E, Gautier P, Roubille F, Delmas C. Hemoglobin in cardiogenic shock: the lower, the poorer survival. J Intensive Care. 2025 Jun 23;13(1):36. doi: 10.1186/s40560-025-00805-y. PMID: 40551259.
In this episode of the Saving Lives Podcast, we reviews a 2024 multicenter study on valproic acid for hyperactive delirium and agitation in ICU patients. The findings show that VPA may help reduce sedation needs, improve ventilator synchrony, and resolve delirium without major adverse effects. Tune in for practical insights into this emerging option for complex critical care cases.
The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook
I have written "The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook: A Practical Guide for Healthcare Professionals," a must-read for anyone caring for critically ill patients (check out the reviews)! You have several options to get a physical copy.
Amazon: https://amzn.to/47qJZe1 (Affiliate Link)
My Store: https://eddyjoemd.myshopify.com/products/the-vasopressor-inotrope-handbook (Use "podcast" to save 10%)
Citation: Nuti O, Merchan C, Ahuja T, Arnouk S, Papadopoulos J, Katz A. Valproic Acid for Hyperactive Delirium and Agitation in Critically Ill Patients. J Intensive Care Med. 2025 May;40(5):519-527. doi: 10.1177/08850666241302760. Epub 2024 Dec 8. PMID: 39648603.
In this episode of the Saving Lives Podcast, we discuss a study from Intensive Care Medicine that explores whether baseline serum chloride and pH affect outcomes with balanced fluids versus saline. The findings from the PLUS trial show no significant interaction, but intriguing trends suggest that hyperchloremic patients may benefit more from balanced fluids.
The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook
I have written "The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook: A Practical Guide for Healthcare Professionals," a must-read for anyone caring for critically ill patients (check out the reviews)! You have several options to get a physical copy.
Amazon: https://amzn.to/47qJZe1 (Affiliate Link)
My Store: https://eddyjoemd.myshopify.com/products/the-vasopressor-inotrope-handbook (Use "podcast" to save 10%)
Citation: Ramanan M, Hammond N, Billot L, Delaney A, Devaux A, Finfer S, Li Q, Micallef S, Venkatesh B, Young PJ, Myburgh J; PLUS Investigators. Serum chloride concentration and outcomes in adults receiving intravenous fluid therapy with a balanced crystalloid solution or 0.9% sodium chloride. Intensive Care Med. 2025 Feb;51(2):249-258. doi: 10.1007/s00134-024-07764-2. Epub 2025 Feb 10. PMID: 39928118.
In this episode of the Saving Lives Podcast, we break down a randomized trial from CHEST (2025) comparing Normosol-R vs. Lactated Ringer’s in critically ill adults. Learn whether acetate/gluconate-buffered fluids offer advantages over lactate-buffered solutions regarding acid-base balance, kidney function, and mortality. Tune in to hear how this study impacts critical care fluid management!
The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook
I have written "The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook: A Practical Guide for Healthcare Professionals," a must-read for anyone caring for critically ill patients (check out the reviews)! You have several options to get a physical copy.
Amazon: https://amzn.to/47qJZe1 (Affiliate Link)
My Store: https://eddyjoemd.myshopify.com/products/the-vasopressor-inotrope-handbook (Use "podcast" to save 10%)
Citation: Qian ET, Brown RM, Jackson KE, Wang L, Stollings JL, Freundlich RE, Wanderer JP, Siew ED, Bernard GR, Self WH, Casey JD, Rice TW, Semler MW; Pragmatic Critical Care Research Group. Normosol-R versus Lactated Ringers in the Critically Ill: A Randomized Trial. Chest. 2025 Feb 17:S0012-3692(25)00165-5. doi: 10.1016/j.chest.2025.02.008. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39971001.
In this episode of the Saving Lives Podcast, we review a 2025 study from Critical Care Medicine comparing lactated Ringer’s and normal saline for initial fluid resuscitation in sepsis-induced hypotension. The findings suggest that LR may improve survival and increase hospital-free days compared to NS, supporting current guidelines favoring balanced crystalloids. Tune in for a deep dive into the study’s results and clinical implications!
The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook
I have written "The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook: A Practical Guide for Healthcare Professionals," a must-read for anyone caring for critically ill patients (check out the reviews)! You have several options to get a physical copy.
Amazon: https://amzn.to/47qJZe1 (Affiliate Link)
My Store: https://eddyjoemd.myshopify.com/products/the-vasopressor-inotrope-handbook (Use "podcast" to save 10%)
Citation: Gelbenegger G, Shapiro NI, Zeitlinger M, Jilma B, Douglas IS, Jorda A. Lactated Ringer's or Normal Saline for Initial Fluid Resuscitation in Sepsis-Induced Hypotension. Crit Care Med. 2025 Feb 19. doi: 10.1097/CCM.0000000000006601. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39969246.
In this episode of the Saving Lives Podcast, we review a nationwide study on cardiogenic shock in general ICUs, recently published in the European Heart Journal: Acute Cardiovascular Care. Discover why non-ischemic heart failure now leads cardiogenic shock admissions, which patient groups face the highest mortality, and how early ICU intervention can improve outcomes. Stay tuned for critical insights into managing this high-risk population.
The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook
I have written "The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook: A Practical Guide for Healthcare Professionals," a must-read for anyone caring for critically ill patients (check out the reviews)! You have several options to get a physical copy.
Amazon: https://amzn.to/47qJZe1 (Affiliate Link)
My Store: https://eddyjoemd.myshopify.com/products/the-vasopressor-inotrope-handbook (Use "podcast" to save 10%)
Citation: Citation: Guido T, Giovanni T, Elena G, Anna Z, Michele Z, Stefano F. Cardiogenic shock in general intensive care unit: a nationwide prospective analysis of epidemiology and outcome. Eur Heart J Acute Cardiovasc Care. 2024 Dec 3;13(11):768-778. doi: 10.1093/ehjacc/zuae108. PMID: 39302432.
In this episode of the Saving Lives Podcast, we explore a systematic review and meta-analysis from the Journal of Critical Care on sleep interventions in ICU patients. We learn about the effectiveness of pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic strategies in reducing delirium and discover how improving sleep could transform critical care outcomes.
The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook
I have written "The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook: A Practical Guide for Healthcare Professionals," a must-read for anyone caring for critically ill patients (check out the reviews)! You have several options to get a physical copy.
Amazon: https://amzn.to/47qJZe1 (Affiliate Link)
My Store: https://eddyjoemd.myshopify.com/products/the-vasopressor-inotrope-handbook (Use "podcast" to save 10%)
Citation: Teng J, Qin H, Guo W, Liu J, Sun J, Zhang Z. Effectiveness of sleep interventions to reduce delirium in critically ill patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Crit Care. 2023 Dec;78:154342. doi: 10.1016/j.jcrc.2023.154342. Epub 2023 Jun 9. PMID: 37302381.
In this episode of the Saving Lives Podcast, we dive into the latest research from CHEST, exploring how sepsis order sets can improve care value. Learn about the impact of these sets on reducing mortality, lowering hospital costs, and their role in streamlining sepsis management. Discover why order sets can be a game-changer for hospitals and society in addressing sepsis care.
The Vasopressor & Inotrope HandbookI have written "The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook: A Practical Guide for Healthcare Professionals," a must-read for anyone caring for critically ill patients (check out the reviews)! You have several options to get a physical copy. Amazon: https://amzn.to/47qJZe1 (Affiliate Link)My Store: https://eddyjoemd.myshopify.com/products/the-vasopressor-inotrope-handbook (Use "podcast" to save 10%)
Citation: Dale CR, Chiu ST, Schoepflin Sanders S, Stowell CJ, Steel TL, Liao JM, Barnes JI. Sepsis Order Set Use Associated With Increased Care Value. Chest. 2024 Nov;166(5):1046-1055. doi: 10.1016/j.chest.2024.05.032. Epub 2024 Jun 19. PMID: 38906463; PMCID: PMC11638543.
In this episode of the Saving Lives Podcast, Eddy Joe breaks down a study comparing continuous glucose monitoring systems (CGMS) to conventional point-of-care monitoring in ICU patients. Learn how CGMS improves glycemic control, reduces variability, and eases nursing workloads, even without reducing mortality.
The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook I have written "The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook: A Practical Guide for Healthcare Professionals," a must-read for anyone caring for critically ill patients (check out the reviews)! You have several options to get a physical copy. Amazon: https://amzn.to/47qJZe1 (Affiliate Link) My Store: https://eddyjoemd.myshopify.com/products/the-vasopressor-inotrope-handbook (Use "podcast" to save 10%)
Citation: Chu C, Li J, Yang X, Zhao H, Wu Z, Xu R, Gao J. Continuous glucose monitoring versus conventional glucose monitoring in the ICU: A randomized controlled trial. J Crit Care. 2024 Dec;84:154894. doi: 10.1016/j.jcrc.2024.154894. Epub 2024 Aug 5. PMID: 39106581.
In this episode of The Saving Lives Podcast, we explore Propofol Infusion Syndrome (PRIS), looking at this complication's incidence, laboratory, and clinical manifestations. Hat tip to the authors. The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook I have written "The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook: A Practical Guide for Healthcare Professionals," a must-read for anyone caring for critically ill patients (check out the reviews)! You have several options to get a physical copy. Amazon: https://amzn.to/47qJZe1 (Affiliate Link) My Store: https://eddyjoemd.myshopify.com/products/the-vasopressor-inotrope-handbook (Use "podcast" to save 10%)
Citation: Li WK, Chen XJC, Altshuler D, Islam S, Spiegler P, Emerson L, Bender M. The incidence of propofol infusion syndrome in critically-ill patients. J Crit Care. 2022 Oct;71:154098. doi: 10.1016/j.jcrc.2022.154098. Epub 2022 Jun 17. PMID: 35724444. @eddyjoemd is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com Although great care has been taken to ensure that the information in this post is accurate, eddyjoemd, LLC shall not be held responsible or in any way liable for the continued accuracy of the information or for any errors, omissions, or inaccuracies or for any consequences arising therefrom.
In this episode of The Saving Lives Podcast, we dive into a compelling study from the Annals of Intensive Care, exploring the prevalence and impact of hyperdynamic left ventricular systolic function in septic patients. Unpacking the findings, we discuss how this condition influences mortality rates and what it means for clinical practice in intensive care units.
The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook I have written "The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook: A Practical Guide for Healthcare Professionals," a must-read for anyone caring for critically ill patients (check out the reviews)! You have several options to get a physical copy. Amazon: https://amzn.to/47qJZe1 (Affiliate Link) Signed & Personalized Copy: https://eddyjoemd.myshopify.com/products/the-vasopressor-inotrope-handbook My website: www.eddyjoemd.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/eddyjoemd X: www.x.com/eddyjoemd Facebook: www.facebook.com/eddyjoemd My Amazon store for resources you may find helpful: www.amazon.com/shop/eddyjoemd @eddyjoemd is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com Although great care has been taken to ensure that the information in this podcast is accurate, eddyjoemd, LLC shall not be held responsible or liable for its continued accuracy or any errors, omissions, inaccuracies, or consequences arising from it.
Citation: Sato R, Sanfilippo F, Hasegawa D, Prasitlumkum N, Duggal A, Dugar S. Prevalence and prognosis of hyperdynamic left ventricular systolic function in septic patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Ann Intensive Care. 2024 Feb 3;14(1):22. doi: 10.1186/s13613-024-01255-9. PMID: 38308701.
In this episode of The Saving Lives Podcast, we delve into the intricate subject of advance directives in the intensive care setting. Titled "Deciphering the Complex World of Advance Directives in ICU Care: Challenges and Solutions," the episode explores the historical background, implementation challenges, and the impact of advance directives on patient care within ICUs. Let's highlight the practical difficulties healthcare professionals face in honoring patients' wishes and the varied effectiveness of advance directives across different regions. This episode aims to shed light on the importance of advance directives in ensuring patient autonomy and improving the quality of end-of-life care in critical settings.
The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook I have written "The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook: A Practical Guide for Healthcare Professionals," a must-read for anyone caring for critically ill patients (check out the reviews)! You have several options to get a physical copy. Amazon: https://amzn.to/47qJZe1 (Affiliate Link) Signed & Personalized Copy: https://eddyjoemd.myshopify.com/products/the-vasopressor-inotrope-handbook My website: www.eddyjoemd.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/eddyjoemd X: www.x.com/eddyjoemd Facebook: www.facebook.com/eddyjoemd My Amazon store for resources you may find helpful: www.amazon.com/shop/eddyjoemd @eddyjoemd is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com Although great care has been taken to ensure that the information in this podcast is accurate, eddyjoemd, LLC shall not be held responsible or liable for its continued accuracy or any errors, omissions, inaccuracies, or consequences arising from it.
Citation: Baumann SM, Kruse NJ, Kliem PSC, Amacher SA, Hunziker S, Dittrich TD, Renetseder F, Grzonka P, Sutter R. Translation of patients' advance directives in intensive care units: are we there yet? J Intensive Care. 2023 Nov 15;11(1):53. doi: 10.1186/s40560-023-00705-z. PMID: 37968692; PMCID: PMC10648602.
In this episode, we discuss recent findings on the potential risks of left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) in cardiac surgery patients without prior atrial fibrillation. The study highlights an increased risk of new-onset postoperative AF and prolonged hospital stays without clear benefits in mortality or stroke prevention.
The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook I have written "The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook: A Practical Guide for Healthcare Professionals," a must-read for anyone caring for critically ill patients (check out the reviews)! You have several options to get a physical copy. Amazon: https://amzn.to/47qJZe1 (Affiliate Link) My Store: https://eddyjoemd.myshopify.com/products/the-vasopressor-inotrope-handbook My website: www.eddyjoemd.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/eddyjoemd X: www.x.com/eddyjoemd Facebook: www.facebook.com/eddyjoemd My Amazon store for resources you may find helpful: www.amazon.com/shop/eddyjoemd @eddyjoemd is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com Although great care has been taken to ensure that the information in this podcast is accurate, eddyjoemd, LLC shall not be held responsible or liable for its continued accuracy or any errors, omissions, inaccuracies, or consequences arising from it.
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Citation: Shuhaiber JH, Abbas M, Morland T, Kirchner HL, El-Manzalawy Y. Atrial appendage closure is associated with increased risk for postoperative atrial fibrillation. J Cardiothorac Surg. 2024 Nov 2;19(1):619. doi: 10.1186/s13019-024-03119-6. PMID: 39488696.
In this episode of the Saving Lives Podcast, Eddy Joe explores the TRISCEND II trial’s groundbreaking findings on transcatheter tricuspid valve replacement (TTVR) for severe tricuspid regurgitation. Learn about the quality-of-life improvements, procedural risks, and future directions for this innovative therapy.
The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook I have written "The Vasopressor & Inotrope Handbook: A Practical Guide for Healthcare Professionals," a must-read for anyone caring for critically ill patients (check out the reviews)! You have several options to get a physical copy. Amazon: https://amzn.to/47qJZe1 (Affiliate Link) Signed & Personalized Copy: https://eddyjoemd.myshopify.com/products/the-vasopressor-inotrope-handbook My website: www.eddyjoemd.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/eddyjoemd X: www.x.com/eddyjoemd Facebook: www.facebook.com/eddyjoemd My Amazon store for resources you may find helpful: www.amazon.com/shop/eddyjoemd @eddyjoemd is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com Although great care has been taken to ensure that the information in this podcast is accurate, eddyjoemd, LLC shall not be held responsible or liable for its continued accuracy or any errors, omissions, inaccuracies, or consequences arising from it.
Citation: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2401918
