

Critical Care Scenarios
Brandon Oto, PA-C, FCCM and Bryan Boling, DNP, ACNP, FCCM
An educational podcast presenting practical critical care scenarios. By Brandon Oto, PA-C and Bryan Boling, ACNP. New episodes weekly.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 1, 2025 • 0sec
Episode 93: Fluid in sepsis and the FloPatch, with Jon-Emile Kenny
We dive into fluid resuscitation in sepsis, with Dr. Jon-Emile Kenny, pulmonary and critical care physician, author of the physiology textbook Heart-lung.org, and inventor of the FloPatch device. Disclosures: Dr. Kenny appears here as both a clinician as well as a representative of his company and product, and should be presumed to retain a degree … Continue reading "Episode 93: Fluid in sepsis and the FloPatch, with Jon-Emile Kenny"

Sep 16, 2025 • 0sec
Episode 92: PRIS and propylene glycol toxicity, with Jerry Snow
Join medical toxicologist Jerry Snow as he dives into the critical topic of propofol infusion syndrome (PRIS) and its associated risks. He explains how high doses can lead to mitochondrial dysfunction and key clinical signs to watch for, like elevated lactate and cardiac changes. The discussion shifts to propylene glycol toxicity from prolonged lorazepam infusions, outlining safe dosage thresholds and its metabolic implications. Jerry emphasizes early detection and the need for careful monitoring in critically ill patients. A must-listen for anyone in emergency medicine!

Sep 3, 2025 • 1h 6min
Episode 91: A simulated goals of care conversation
Brandon and Bryan mock up a goals of care discussion for a critically ill patient, and reflect on the right and wrong ways to execute this complex procedure. Learn more at the Intensive Care Academy! Resources Center to Advance Palliative Care The Conversation Project

14 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 0sec
Episode 90: Sugammadex in the ICU, with Sara J Hyland
Sara J Hyland, PharmD, BCCCP, FCCP, is a researcher and clinical pharmacist specializing in perioperative and emergency medicine. She dives into the intricacies of neuromuscular blockade reversal in the ICU, particularly the use of sugammadex versus traditional agents. The conversation highlights the challenges of underutilization, the importance of rigorous monitoring for patient safety, and the risks associated with sugammadex, including rare complications. Hyland emphasizes the need for better protocols and collaborative practices to optimize patient outcomes.

Aug 6, 2025 • 0sec
Lightning rounds 56: The CHEST Critical Care APP cert, with Leeah Sloan
In this conversation, Leeah Sloan, PA-C and co-chair of the Critical Care APP Steering Committee for CHEST, reveals exciting news about a new certification for Critical Care Advanced Practice Providers. She discusses the challenges of traditional training and the urgent need for standardized certification to enhance APP competency. Leeah also critiques the dangers of unstructured learning and the importance of collaborative approaches in critical care. This insightful talk shines a light on evolving inclusivity in the medical field.

Jul 30, 2025 • 0sec
Special announcement: ICA 1-year anniversary
Learn more at the Intensive Care Academy!

9 snips
Jul 23, 2025 • 0sec
Academy bites: Specialization is breadth, not depth
Explore the concept that true mastery in critical care relies on a broad understanding rather than deep specialization. The discussion highlights how adaptability and generalization enhance decision-making in the ICU. It also delves into how AI innovations support this approach, emphasizing that effective expertise is about simplifying complex choices into manageable components. Challenge conventional beliefs and discover why breadth of knowledge might just be the key to success in clinical environments.

Jul 9, 2025 • 0sec
Lightning rounds 55: APP fellowships with Melissa Bridges
Melissa Bridges, director of PA fellowships at Atrium Health and president of the Association of Post-graduate PA Programs (APPAP), chats with us (Bryan is president of APGAP, the Association of Post Graduate APRN programs) about PA/NP residencies/fellowships in critical care. Learn more at the Intensive Care Academy!

Jun 25, 2025 • 0sec
Lightning rounds 54: Medical musicians with Andrew Schulman
Andrew Schulman, medical musician, former ICU patient, and president of the Medical Musician Initiative, tells us how music can help the critically ill. Learn more at the Intensive Care Academy!

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Jun 11, 2025 • 0sec
Lightning rounds 53: GI Q&A with Elliot Tapper
Elliot Tapper, a leading gastroenterologist and director of the cirrhosis program at the University of Michigan, dives deep into critical GI issues. He tackles constipation, framing it as 'gut failure' and offers effective laxative strategies. Elliot also sheds light on antiemetic alternatives to ondansetron and explains the nuances between MRCP and ERCP for cholangitis. Other highlights include his insights on managing ileus in the ICU and the importance of careful reassessment when using rectal tubes. A treasure trove of clinical pearls!