Optimal Use of Vasoactive Drugs in Shock States

Activity Summary

Required reading for all learners: Implicit Bias impacts patient outcomes

Treatment of shock frequently requires use of vasoactive drugs. Selection of the most appropriate drug to optimize hemodynamics should be based on the underlying etiology of shock and the pharmacological effects of the drug. This session includes an overview of the most frequently used vasoactive drugs. Adrenergic receptor physiology and use of push dose vasopressors are discussed. Cases illustrate the appropriate use of selected vasoactive drugs.

Objectives

Define the terms vasopressor, inotrope and inopressor.
Discuss adrenergic receptor physiology, including alpha and beta receptors.
Identify the most appropriate vasoactive agent for the clinical situation.

Continuing Education Disclosure Statement

Successful Completion

Learners must complete the entire activity and the associated evaluation to be awarded contact hours AND read Implicit Bias impacts patient outcomes. No partial credit will be awarded.

Accreditation

The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses is accredited as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Commission on Accreditation.
Provider approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing, Provider number CEP 1036, for {contactHours} contact hours.

Disclosures

Any relevant relationship between an ineligible company and an individual with the ability to influence clinical content will be identified by the Nurse Planner within the activity. Any relevant relationship between an ineligible company and an individual with the ability to influence clinical content has been mitigated.

Accreditation refers to recognition of continuing education only and does not imply AACN, ANCC, or CBRN approval or endorsement of any commercial products discussed or displayed in conjunction with this educational activity. Activities with pharmacology hours are to assist the APRN in fulfilling the pharmacotherapeutic education requirements for licensure and certification renewals.

Activities meet the standards for most states that require mandatory continuing education for license and/or certification renewal. AACN recommends consulting with your own state board of nursing or credentialing organization before submitting your certificate of completion.

Refund Policy

Continuing Education Activities are nonrefundable.