End of Shift Podcast: Sepsis in the ED

In this episode, Eric and Joe do a deep dive on sepsis with Dr. Rob Stenstrom, Sepsis and Infections Lead for the EM Network. They discuss the most practical definition of sepsis in the ED and which diagnostic score to use. They find the bottom line on serum lactate, fluid treatment, and blood cultures and antibiotic timing. Rob answers questions on which pressor to use, central access timing, and the status of novel therapies. Plus, is there a genetic predisposition to developing sepsis?

Sepsis Stats

• 1 in 18 deaths in Canada involve Sepsis
• 30% of Canadians hospitalized with sepsis die within 1 month.

Related links

• Sepsis and Septic Shock – Diagnosis
• Sepsis with Hypotension and Septic Shock – Treatment
• Sepsis without Hypotension – Treatment
• Pediatric Septic Shock Management
• EM Network Sepsis and Soft Tissue Infections Research Program

End of Shift Hosts

Eric Angus
Eric Angus is an emergency physician and trauma team leader at Lions Gate Hospital. He is married with 15-year-old twins. His nonmedical interests include origami, meditation, mountain biking, skiing, rock climbing, just generally being outside, and drinking wine. He has a diploma in mountain medicine and volunteers for ski patrol and the North Shore Rescue team. He is an ATLS instructor. He dabbles in stoicism and Buddhist philosophies.

Joe Haegert
Joe Haegert practices emergency and trauma medicine at the Royal Columbian Hospital in New Westminster, British Columbia. He is a talented teacher, engaging speaker, and devoted clinician. He lives in South Surrey with his wife Sandy and managed to raise three children without much incident. Known for his unflagging enthusiasm, Joe enjoys all aspects of the outdoors and recently has taken to turning wooden burls into all manner of bowls and tables.

Disclaimer
The discussion within the End of Shift podcast may be graphic, and some listeners may find the language and content disturbing. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the BC Emergency Medicine Network.