Clinical Update on Vasopressors and Titration Strategies

Activity Summary

Required reading for all learners: Implicit Bias impacts patient outcomes

This article describes the different types of shock and use of vasopressors to limit progression to organ failure. Specific considerations for the use of dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine, phenylephrine, vasopressin analogues and angiotensin II are listed and weight based dosing in obese patients is explained. The article also describes adverse reactions that can occur with vasopressors. Finally, the article explains The Joint Commission's standard that lists the elements of a titration order and the use of block charting to document situations in which rapid titration is necessary to treat patient hemodynamic instability.

Objectives

Identify the various types of shock and the rationale for treatment with vasopressors
Describe the mechanisms of action and adverse effects of vasopressors
Review the Joint Commission standards for medication titration orders and block charting

Continuing Education Disclosure Statement

Successful Completion

Learners must attend/view/read the entire activity and complete the associated evaluation to be awarded the contact hours or CERP. No partial credit will be awarded.

Disclosure

This activity has been reviewed by the Nurse Planner. It has been determined that the material presented here shows no bias. No conflicts of interest have been identified for any individual with the ability to influence the content of this activity. Accreditation refers to recognition of continuing education only and does not imply AACN or ANCC approval or endorsement of any commercial products discussed or displayed in conjunction with this educational activity.

Accreditation

The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) is accredited as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's (ANCC's) Commission on Accreditation, ANCC Provider Number 0012. AACN has been approved as a provider of continuing education in nursing by the California State Board of Nursing (CBRN), California Provider number CEP 1036. This activity is approved for 1.00 contact hours.

AACN programming meets the standards for most states that require mandatory continuing education contact hours for license and/or certification renewal. AACN recommends consulting with your state board of nursing or credentialing organization before submitting CE to fulfill continuing education requirements.

Refund Policy

Continuing Education Activities are nonrefundable.