The following episode covers the basics of anti-platelet therapy.  ..read more

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/   ..read more

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/ibcc/reverse/   ..read more

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.  ..read more

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

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://emcrit.org/ibcc/heparin/ https://emcrit.org/ibcc/reverse/ https://emcrit.org/ibcc/thrombocytopenia/     ..read more

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 discussion of anticoagulants.  ..read more

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 beneficial over the years. As always I appreciate any and all feedback on how to better this resource.  Resources:   Blood Clotting Cascade   Activation of Coagulation Cascade   Hematology | Hemostasis: Coagulation Cascade   ..read more

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 detail. Below are two valuable links to dive into the various causes of thrombocytopenia.  Further reading: https://emcrit.org/ibcc/thrombocytopenia/ Further listening: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-intern-at-work-internal-medicine ..read more

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.  ..read more