Master ICU Vasopressor Management: 8 Shock Resuscitation Tips

Mastering Vasopressors in Critical Care | 8 Must-Know Facts Every Clinician Should Know

Patient in shock? Act fast and take control with the right vasopressors! In this video, we break down 8 life-saving facts about vasopressor management that every critical care clinician should know. Learn to conquer shock resuscitation with confidence – from the first dose of norepinephrine to the final wean-off. We cover fluid resuscitation vs. pressors, and explain why you must “fill the tank” with IV fluids before starting vasopressors. You’ll get a quick primer on pressor pharmacology – know the differences between norepinephrine, epinephrine, vasopressin, dopamine and more, and when to use each. We also discuss the optimal MAP target (65 mmHg) and why maintaining perfusion pressure is crucial to avoid organ failure. We tackle advanced shock management: when to add steroids (like hydrocortisone) in refractory shock for possible adrenal insufficiency, and why vasopressors should be run through a central line as soon as possible. You’ll learn how to safely use a peripheral IV temporarily and what to do if a pressor extravasates (tissue leak – hint: phentolamine to the rescue!). Finally, we outline how to wean off pressors gradually as your patient stabilizes, so you don’t trigger a crash by stopping too soon. Whether you’re a hospitalist, ICU doctor, internal medicine resident, or studying for boards, this high-yield guide has you covered. It’s basically pressors explained in a nutshell – so you can confidently manage any ICU shock scenario. Chapters:

0:00 Introduction – Why Vasopressor Mastery Matters
0:16: Fill the Tank First (Fluid Resuscitation)
1:11: How vasopressors work
2:33 Norepinephrine Is First-Line
2:49: Why is epinephrine the first line in anaphylactic shock
3:14: Anesthesia-induced hypotension
4:01: Phenyephrine for Anesthesia-induced hypotension
4:10: Dopamine is no longer a preferred vasopressor
4:40 Midodrine
4:52: MAP (Mean arterial pressure) should be targeted when titrating vasopressors in the ICU
6:32: Steroids for Refractory Shock
8:16: Vasopressors extravasation
8:57: Vasopressors weaning


🎓 Whether you're in internal medicine, emergency medicine, or critical care—this video will enhance your decision-making at the bedside.

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