Best CVICU Podcasts (2025)

1
The Beat Goes On – Life in the CVICU 1:17:39

24d ago1:17:39

1:17:39

In this episode of Code Brew, hosts Jo King and Luke Warm welcome Lora Zappem, a CVICU nurse with extensive experience in various nursing fields. They discuss Lora's journey in nursing, the unique challenges and rewards of working in the CVICU, and the patient population typically seen in this specialized unit. The conversation delves into the adva…

1
Don't Fear the Reaper - Trauma ICU Part 2 1:11:46

3d ago1:11:46

1:11:46

In this episode of Code Brew, Jo King and Luke Warm with guest, J-EZ, celebrate their podcast milestones, dive deep into the complexities of trauma care, and share humorous and insightful stories from their experiences in healthcare. They discuss the dynamics of trauma surgeons, the emotional toll of trauma on healthcare professionals, and the impo…

1
Highway to the Danger Zone: Inside the Trauma ICU 52:57

10d ago52:57

52:57

In this episode of Code Brew, Jo King and Luke Warm engage in a deep conversation with J-EZ about the complexities of trauma nursing and the dynamics of working in a trauma ICU. They explore memorable trauma cases, the types of injuries encountered, the importance of teamwork, and the workflow in the ICU. The discussion emphasizes the significance …

1
Critical Condition: A Deep Dive into ICU Nursing 1:04:05

1M ago1:04:05

1:04:05

In this episode of Code Brew, hosts Jo King and Luke Warm welcome their first guest, Norma Saline, to discuss the intricacies of ICU nursing. They explore the definition of ICU nursing, the critical responsibilities of ICU nurses, the importance of teamwork and communication, and the emotional resilience required in this challenging field. The conv…

1
Stayin' Alive: The Rhythm of Code Blue 1:06:17

1M ago1:06:17

1:06:17

In this episode of Code Brew, Jo and Luke dive deep into the critical topic of Code Blues, discussing the essential actions, roles, and strategies involved in responding to a cardiac arrest situation. They emphasize the importance of high-quality CPR, the roles of various team members, and the key concepts that can improve patient outcomes during r…

1
Blurred Lines: Stroke or Something Else? 51:13

2M ago51:13

51:13

In this episode of Code Brew, hosts Jo and Luke delve into the complexities of stroke, discussing its various types, the critical importance of timely treatment, and the BEFAST assessment tool for quick identification. They explore the guidelines for stroke care, the significance of patient education, and the similarities between stroke and hepatic…

1
Under Pressure: Tackling Sepsis Before Time Runs Out 46:07

2M ago46:07

46:07

In this episode of Code Brew, hosts Jo King and Luke Warm discuss the critical conditions of sepsis and hypovolemia, emphasizing the vital role of nursing in early identification and treatment. They explore the definitions, criteria, and management strategies for sepsis, including the importance of fluid resuscitation and the use of vasopressors. T…

1
Call Me Maybe: Patient Deterioration and Knowing When to Call For Help 50:35

2M ago50:35

50:35

In this episode of Code Brew, hosts Jo and Luke discuss the importance of setting goals for the new year, introduce a mini-series focused on rapid response in nursing, and emphasize the significance of recognizing patient deterioration. They cover various physiological changes, circulatory assessments, neurological changes, infection and sepsis pro…

1
Episode 4: Setting Goals, Reaching Milestones: A Nurse’s Guide to Growth 40:29

2M ago40:29

40:29

In this episode of the Code Brew Podcast, hosts Jo and Luke discuss the importance of setting goals and reaching milestones in nursing. They explore how goals differ for student nurses and experienced nurses, emphasizing the need for realistic expectations and continuous learning. The conversation covers strategies for maximizing clinical experienc…

1
Episode 3: What You Didn't Learn in Nursing School (part 2) Plus Holidays in the Hospital 49:38

3M ago49:38

49:38

In this episode of Code Brew, Jo King and Luke Warm discuss the lessons that nursing school did not teach, focusing on time management, navigating chaos in the ER, managing interruptions, the importance of delegation, effective communication with providers, and addressing burnout and resilience in nursing. They share personal experiences and insigh…

1
CABG/VALVE Care Path: POD 0 33:58

3M ago33:58

33:58

Listen in while a CVICU nurse explains the CABG/Valve care path and what should occur on postoperative day 0, the day of surgery.By Braelynn Brooks

1
Episode 1: Welcome to Code Brew! 43:40

3M ago43:40

43:40

In the inaugural episode of the Code Brew podcast, hosts Sarah and Luke introduce themselves and discuss their backgrounds in nursing. They explore the good aspects of nursing, including the care and compassion nurses provide to patients and families. The conversation shifts to the challenges faced by nurses, including the emotional toll of the job…

1
Episode 2: What You Didn't Learn in Nursing School (part 1) 34:20

3M ago34:20

34:20

In this episode of Code Brew, Jo and Luke discuss the challenges faced by new nurses transitioning from nursing school to real-world practice. They explore the gaps in nursing education, the importance of critical thinking, and the complexities of the healthcare system. The conversation emphasizes the need for ongoing learning and adaptation in nur…

1
Cardiac Surgery: Basic Room Set Up 29:50

3M ago29:50

29:50

Cardiac Surgery: Basic Room Set UpBy Casual Nurse

1
Arterial Lines 25:54

1+ y ago25:54

25:54

The following episode covers the basics of correctly setting up arterial lines, interpreting waveforms, troubleshooting, and removal.By Michael Morriss

1
Electrolytes: Magnesium 34:34

1+ y ago34:34

34:34

The following episode covers the critical physiological functioning of magnesium. The episode covers lab values, hypomagnesemia and Hypermagnesemia. For further reading: I highly recommend Ak lectures for a serious physiological deep dive. https://aklectures.com https://emcrit.org/ibcc/hypomagnesemia/ https://emcrit.org/ibcc/hypermagnesemia/…

1
Electrolytes: Hyperkalemia 26:31

1+ y ago26:31

26:31

The following episode covers the basics of managing hyperkalemia in the ICU. For further reading: https://emcrit.org/ibcc/hyperkalemia/By Michael Morriss

1
Electrolytes: Hypokalemia in the CVICU/CICU 8:13

1+ y ago8:13

8:13

Specific considerations of hypokalemia in the CVICU/CICU.By Michael Morriss

1
Electrolytes: Hypokalemia 31:42

1+ y ago31:42

31:42

The following episode covers the basics of hypokalemia. The episode discusses the three primary causes of hypokalemia, the clinical manifestations, and general resuscitation guidance. For further reading: https://emcrit.org/ibcc/hypokalemia/By Michael Morriss

1
Electrolytes: potassium introduction 19:00

1+ y ago19:00

19:00

The following episode covers the basics of potassium as an electrolyte in critical care.By Michael Morriss

1
Spontaneous breathing trial (SBT) 20:48

1+ y ago20:48

20:48

Nurse lead spontaneous breathing trials is a common aspect of recovering hearts in the CVICU. But SBT's are common in a wide variety of ICU settings. This episode covers the basics of successful SBT's.By Michael Morriss

1
Electrolytes: hypernatremia 23:28

1+ y ago23:28

23:28

Hypernatremia occurs in up to one fourth of ICU patients. The following episode covers the basics of understanding the critical factors in hypernatremia. For further reading: https://emcrit.org/ibcc/hypernatremia/By Michael Morriss

1
SvO2 (mixed venous oxygen saturation) 18:02

1+ y ago18:02

18:02

One of the most common lab values I have questions about from new nurses is the SvO2 and how it is used as an approximation for cardiac output. As a followup up to the episode on taking hearts this episode considers one of the most common lab values used in critical care to approximate cardiac output.…

1
Post-operative ”Hearts” in the CVICU/ICU 1:23:38

1+ y ago1:23:38

1:23:38

Caring for post operative CVOR patients can be one of the most rewarding and challenging shifts for a CVICU/ICU nurse. The following episode covers the basics of pre-operative assessment, intra-operative analysis, and post-operative care. By no means comprehensive, the episode seeks to cover the basics and provide a steady foundation for growth.…

1
Electrolytes: hyponatremia 29:13

1+ y ago29:13

29:13

The following episode covers the basics of hyponatremia. This episode is a bit longer than most but the prevalence of hyponatremia in critical care warrants a slightly longer conversation. For further reading on hyponatremia: https://emcrit.org/ibcc/hyponatremia/By Michael Morriss

1
Electrolytes: sodium’s role in cardiac muscle cells 12:11

1+ y ago12:11

12:11

The following episode covers the action potential in cardiac muscle cells with specific attention on the role of sodium. For further learning: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uUbgcqo_IOgBy Michael Morriss

1
Electrolytes: sodium’s role in the action potential 18:57

1+ y ago18:57

18:57

The following episode covers the action potential in a neuron. Specific attention is paid to the critical role of electrochemical gradients and concentration gradients established by sodium and potassium. This episode also serves as an overview of the action potential generally.By Michael Morriss

1
Electrolytes: sodium regulation via the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone systems 15:27

1+ y ago15:27

15:27

The following episode provides part one of sodium physiology examining how the body regulates sodium levels via the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. One of my favorite lectures on this topic: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NMWaKdO76NQBy Michael Morriss

1
Electrolytes: sodium overview 16:52

2y ago16:52

16:52

The following episode introduces the electrolyte sodium. Lab collection, general overview of physiological processes, and defining critical terms. The next episode will cover in depth the physiological processes dependent upon sodium.By Michael Morriss

1
Anti-platelet therapy basics 16:44

2y ago16:44

16:44

The following episode covers the basics of anti-platelet therapy.By Michael Morriss

1
Massive transfusion protocol (MTP) basics 20:15

2y ago20:15

20:15

Massive transfusion can be a highly stressful event in the ICU. The following episode covers the basics of carrying out massive transfusion protocol. For further reading: https://emcrit.org/ibcc/mtp/By Michael Morriss

1
Eliquis (apixaban) 12:52

2y ago12:52

12:52

This episode covers the basics of the oral anticoagulant Eliquis. The episode covers the indications, mechanism of action, common dosing, reversal, and a comparison to Coumadin.By Michael Morriss

1
Warfarin 21:08

2y ago21:08

21:08

This episode covers the history, mechanism of action, lab monitoring, indications, reversal and special considerations for Warfarin or otherwise known as Coumadin. One of the most common oral anticoagulants seen in critical care. For further reading: https://emcrit.org/ibcc/coag/ https://emcrit.org/emcrit/reversal-safe-smart/ https://emcrit.org/ibc…

1
Direct thrombin inhibitors 14:26

2y ago14:26

14:26

The following episode covers the basics of direct thrombin inhibitors. Specific attention is given to Argatroban and Bivalirudin. The episode covers mechanism of action, monitoring labs, and specific use cases.By Michael Morriss

1
aPTT vs Xa 10:28

2y ago10:28

10:28

The following episodes provides clarity on the use of aPTT vs Xa lab vales for determining levels of heparin activity.By Michael Morriss

1
Heparin 29:55

2y ago29:55

29:55

The following episode begins the discussion of anticoagulation. The discussion includes the mechanism of action, routes of administration, dosing, initiation consideration, lab values (aPTT vs Xa), side effects, and reversal. The episode also examines the difference between heparin and low molecular weight heparin. For further reading: https://emcr…

1
Coagulation part two 19:40

2y ago19:40

19:40

The following episode specifically focuses on the role of platelets in coagulation. This episode builds upon the previous episode, which focused on the clotting cascade, with a detailed discussion of the formation of the platelet plug and its unique interaction with the fibrin mesh produced by the clotting cascade. The stage is now set for a discus…

1
Clotting Cascade 21:07

2y ago21:07

21:07

The following episode provides a general overview of the clotting cascade. Focus is given to understanding terms such as clotting factors, zymogens, enzymes, cofactors, and proteases. Emphasis is given to understanding the extrinsic, intrinsic, and common pathway. Below are a list of helpful visual explanations of the clotting cascade I have found …

1
Platelets 18:22

2y ago18:22

18:22

The following episode covers the basics of platelet administration in critical care. The episode focuses on the general function, measurement, and administration of platelets. Platelets have several unique administration requirements that need to be remembered! Next weeks episode will cover the clotting cascade and platelet function in much greater…

1
Cryoprecipitate (Cryo) 18:41

2y ago18:41

18:41

The following episode covers the basics of cryoprecipitate (Cryo) use in critical care. The episode covers the formation of cryo, administration basics, common uses and indications.By Michael Morriss

1
Fresh frozen plasma (FFP) 16:24

2y ago16:24

16:24

The following episodes covers the basics of FFP administration in critical care.By Michael Morriss

1
Get the most out of your preceptor in the ICU 13:15

2y ago13:15

13:15

By Michael Morriss

1
Packed red blood cells 25:32

2y ago25:32

25:32

PRBC's or packed red blood cells are one of the most common blood products administered in critical care. The following episode covers the importance of red blood cells, understanding hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, how lab levels are attained, some of the common reasons to transfuse, transfusion basics, and the critical transfusion associated co…

1
Ringer’s Lactate 21:02

2y ago21:02

21:02

Ringer's Lactate, lactated ringers, LR, Hartmann's solution are all terms used to describe this incredibly versatile crystalloid. The episode covers some of the indications and contra indications of LR administration with a brief overview of common misconceptions.By Michael Morriss

1
Crystalloids 20:47

2y ago20:47

20:47

The following episode considers the role crystalloids play in critical care. The episode considers how the mechanism of action differers from that of colloids. Considerations are given to understanding how tonicity and osmolality can influence the effect of crystalloid solutions in the body. Specific attention is given to saline solutions with the …

1
Success in the ICU starts here (updated audio) 12:38

2y ago12:38

12:38

Amidst the continual busyness of the ICU we often forget the power of taking time to pause with our patients and their families, to understand where we are at, and where we are going. Years in the ICU has taught me that often the most important reality of care is the perception of care by patients and their families. Taking time every shift to walk…

1
Colloids 18:15

2y ago18:15

18:15

Colloids are often misunderstood and take a backseat to crystalloids. The following episode dives into their mechanism of action and the critical role they play in maintaining colloidal osmotic pressure. Albumin takes center stage in the episode as one of the primary colloids administered in the ICU.…

1
Success in the ICU starts here 12:38

2y ago12:38

12:38

Amidst the continual busyness of the ICU we often forget the power of taking time to pause with our patients and their families, to understand where we are at, and where we are going. Years in the ICU has taught me that often the most important reality of care is the perception of care by patients and their families. Taking time every shift to walk…

1
New in the ICU (weeks 9-12) 13:59

2y ago13:59

13:59

The last month of training in the ICU present a unique blend of excitement and trepidation. This episode covers your last few weeks of training in the ICU. For preceptors of ICU nurses this is a critical time to help work on weaknesses, build confidence, and ensure the nurse is ready to take on their first solo shifts.…

1
New in the ICU (weeks 3-8) 27:28

2y ago27:28

27:28

After the initial two weeks in the ICU now the fun begins. Weeks 3-8 lay the critical foundations of ICU patient care. Often these weeks are the most difficult for new nurses as they constantly feel overwhelmed. Taking care of two ICU patients while also trying to understand the why behind everything. As a preceptor it often is equally difficult to…

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