SCCM Podcast

In this episode of the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) Podcast, host Kyle B. Enfield, MD, FCCM, speaks with Sumeet Rai, PhD, FCICM, senior intensivist at Canberra Hospital, about his study, “Pawsitive Care: Canine-Assisted Intervention for Anxiety in ICU Patients and Family Members: A Single-Center, Single-Arm Study,” published in the May 2025 compendium of Critical Care Explorations. Dr. Rai explains how positive anecdotal experiences of animal therapy in the ICU inspired his team to conduct this study. Guided by infection control protocols, they implemented a program allowing accredited therapy dogs to visit patients and families for 15- to 20-minute sessions. More than 60% of patients and more than 90% of family members had a clinically meaningful reduction in anxiety scores, and patients reported decreased pain. No adverse events were observed, demonstrating the feasibility and safety of this approach. Dr. Rai addresses the study’s limitations, such as the impracticality of conducting a randomized trial, and highlights the need for research into staff well-being, which appeared to benefit from therapy dog visits. He also underscores the importance of a safety program, including infection control precautions. This episode offers practical insights for implementing animal therapy programs in the ICU and invites listeners to consider new approaches to improving mental health and well-being for patients, families, and staff. Resources referenced in this episode:  Pawsitive Care: Canine-Assisted Intervention for Anxiety in ICU Patients and Family Members: A Single-Center, Single-Arm Study (Cook K, et al. Crit Care Explor. 2025;7:e1258).

In this episode of the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) Podcast, host Elizabeth H. Mack, MD, MS, FCCM, speaks with Rebecca Mitting, MD, MRCPCH, consultant pediatric intensivist and clinical lead for the PICU at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust in London. They discuss Dr. Mitting’s article, “Sedation and Ventilator Weaning Bundle and Time to Extubation in Infants With Bronchiolitis: Secondary Analysis of the Sedation AND Weaning in Children (SANDWICH) Trial,” published in the April 2025 issue of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine. The SANDWICH trial, conducted in the United Kingdom, evaluated a nurse-led intervention of sedation scoring, goal-based sedation weaning, and protocolized extubation readiness testing. While the original trial demonstrated only a modest reduction in ventilation duration, Dr. Mitting’s subgroup analysis of infants with bronchiolitis found a reduction of median time to successful extubation by approximately 16 to 17 hours. Dr. Mitting highlights the importance of these findings during the winter season when bronchiolitis drives up PICU occupancy and strain. The critical trade-off between minimizing ventilator days and avoiding extubation failure is discussed, as well as implementation challenges after the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of protocolized care under resource strain, and future directions for predictive models and personalized strategies to optimize extubation timing. Listeners will gain practical insights into evidence-based approaches for improving outcomes in infants with bronchiolitis and the broader implications for PICU workflow and patient safety. Resources referenced in this episode: Sedation and Ventilator Weaning Bundle and Time to Extubation in Infants With Bronchiolitis: Secondary Analysis of the Sedation AND Weaning in Children (SANDWICH) Trial (Mitting RB, et al. Pediatr Crit Care Med. 2025;26:e423-e431). Effect of a Sedation and Ventilator Liberation Protocol vs Usual Care on Duration of Invasive Mechanical Ventilation in Pediatric Intensive Care Units: A Randomized Clinical Trial (Blackwood B, et al. JAMA. 2021;326:401-410).

In this episode of the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) Podcast, host Diane C. McLaughlin, DNP, AGACNP-BC, CCRN, FCCM, speaks with Muhammad Mansoor Mohiuddin, MD, MBBS, DSc (Hon), FAST, director of the Cardiac Xenotransplantation Program at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, about his Thought Leader presentation at the 2025 Critical Care Congress, The Remarkable Potential of Xenotransplantation, and his groundbreaking work on that subject. Dr. Mohiuddin discusses the need to address the global shortage of donated organs and the use of genetically modified pig organs as a viable solution. He explains the science behind xenotransplantation, including the use of CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology to delete immunogenic pig genes and insert human-compatible genes. The conversation explores the unique immunologic challenges of xenotransplantation, particularly antibody-mediated rejection and the need for tailored immunosuppression protocols. Ethical considerations include religious perspectives and public opinion. Dr. Mohiuddin emphasizes the importance of continued research funding and collaboration with industry partners to advance clinical trials and refine genetic modifications. Listeners will gain insight into how decades of research are transforming xenotransplantation and its potential to extend life and reshape the future of organ transplantation.

In this episode of the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) Podcast, host Marilyn Bulloch, PharmD, BCPS, FCCM, speaks with Terry Fulmer, PhD, RN, FAAN, President of the John A. Hartford Foundation, about her Norma J. Shoemaker Honorary Lecture at the 2025 Critical Care Congress and the transformative impact of the 4Ms framework—What Matters, Medication, Mentation, and Mobility—on age-friendly critical care. Dr. Fulmer shares her journey from bedside critical care nurse to national leader in geriatric health, emphasizing the need to adapt healthcare systems to meet the needs of an aging population. She discusses the development of the Age-Friendly Health Systems initiative, a collaboration among the John A. Hartford Foundation, Institute for Healthcare Improvement, American Hospital Association, and Catholic Health Association. Now implemented in nearly 5000 facilities, the initiative is supported by evidence from models such as the Acute Care of the Elderly (ACE) units, Hospital Outcomes Program for Elders (HOPE) initiative, and Nurses Improving Care for Healthsystem Elders (NICHE) program. The episode highlights the January 2025 adoption of a Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services measure that incorporates the 4Ms into inpatient care standards. Dr. Fulmer explains how hospitals of all sizes can implement age-friendly practices using existing resources and how multiprofessional collaboration is key to success. She also discusses findings from a national survey from Age Wave and the John A. Hartford Foundation, which revealed that only 19% of older adults feel their clinicians consistently address all 4Ms. Listeners will gain insight into how the 4Ms framework improves outcomes and promotes functional recovery in older adults. Whether you're a clinician, educator, or healthcare leader, this episode offers practical strategies and a compelling call to action to join the age-friendly health systems movement.

In this episode of the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) Podcast, host Samantha Gambles Farr, MSN, AG-ACNP, FNP-C, RNFA, speaks with Brian Boling, DNP, AGACNP-BC, FCCM, an advanced practice provider (APP) in the Department of Anesthesiology, Division of Critical Care Medicine, at the University of Kentucky and host of the Critical Care Scenarios podcast. They explore the challenges and opportunities facing novice nurses and APPs as they transition into new roles in critical care. Drawing from his own nontraditional path into nursing and advanced practice, Dr. Boling shares how self-directed learning—through podcasts, blogs, and social media—can supplement formal education and foster professional growth. He emphasizes the importance of building a personalized curriculum that balances foundational knowledge with emerging trends and encourages learners to focus not only on hot topics but also on the essential, everyday skills that drive patient outcomes. The conversation highlights strategies for identifying credible educational resources and maintaining work-life balance while pursuing lifelong learning. Listeners will gain insights into how experienced clinicians can support novice colleagues through informal mentorship and bedside teaching and how honesty about knowledge gaps can lead to deeper learning. Whether you're a new graduate, a transitioning clinician, or a seasoned clinician looking to mentor others, this episode offers practical guidance for education, growth, and leadership in critical care.

Mentorship can be transformative, especially for immigrant critical care professionals navigating unique career challenges. In this episode of the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) Podcast, host Ludwig Lin, MD, speaks with Fajun Wang, MD, a neurocritical care specialist and assistant professor at St. Louis University School of Medicine, about his experience in SCCM’s Immigrant Critical Care Professional (ICCP) mentorship program. Dr. Wang shares his journey from medical school in China to building a neurocritical care service line in the United States, highlighting how mentorship shaped his path at every stage. He reflects on the challenges of entering a healthcare system in a new country and emphasizes the benefits of connecting mentors and mentees who share similar backgrounds and experiences. Dr. Wang’s ICCP mentor provided guidance during the launch of his ICU leadership role, offering insights into service line development and support during challenging situations. The ICCP program, developed from a proposal by José L. Díaz-Gómez, MD, MAS, FASE, FCCM, launched its first six-month pilot in January 2024. The program focuses on five key domains: psychological and emotional support, self-efficacy, career development, scholarly support, and role modeling. A second pilot, currently under way, extends the mentorship to a full year. This episode will inspire listeners to seek mentorship and community to advance their careers and grow their confidence. Mentorship is not just about guidance—it’s about building relationships that empower individuals to lead, innovate, and give back.

In this episode of the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) Podcast, host Diane McLaughlin, DNP, AGACNP-BC, CCRN, FCCM, is joined by John Appino, MBA, founder and CEO of Contract Diagnostics, and Ryan Hakimi, DO, MS, NVS, RPNI, CPB, FNCS, FCCM, neurointensivist at Prisma Health in Greenville, South Carolina, for a conversation on salary and contract negotiations for advanced practice providers (APPs). The guests explore the nuances of evaluating job offers and negotiating compensation, as well as prioritizing onboarding, mentorship, and job fit. Dr. Hakimi shares insights from his leadership roles in academic neuro-ICUs and his longstanding advocacy for APPs, while Mr. Appino offers a strategic perspective on contract structures, compensation models, and negotiation tactics. The discussion highlights the variability in contract practices across academic and private institutions, the importance of defining full-time employment expectations, and the role of offer letters versus formal contracts. Listeners will learn how to approach salary discussions with confidence, including when to negotiate, which data to reference (e.g., Medical Group Management Association and American Medical Group Association benchmarks), and how to assess a job offer beyond salary. This episode is valuable for APPs at any career stage seeking fair compensation and sustainable career growth. It emphasizes that successful negotiations are not just about salary—they are also about clarity, support, and long-term professional satisfaction.

In this episode of the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) Podcast, host Maureen Madden, DNP, RN, CPNP-AC, CCRN, FCCM, speaks with Jeremy Loberger, MD, assistant professor of pediatrics and medical director of the pediatric intensive care unit at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Dr. Loberger shares insights from his work as lead author of “Implementing the Pediatric Ventilator Liberation Guidelines Using the Most Current Evidence,” and co-principal investigator of the multicenter collaborative Ventilation Liberation for Kids (VentLib4Kids), aimed at standardizing and improving extubation practices. Their conversation explores the evolving challenges of pediatric ventilator liberation, such as balancing extubation readiness with risks related to prolonged invasive mechanical ventilation and noninvasive respiratory support. Topics include the role of spontaneous breathing trials, pressure support strategies, sedation practices, and the impact of noninvasive modalities such as high-flow nasal cannula and bilevel positive airway pressure. They address the importance of individualized care, especially for high-risk patients such as children with neuromuscular disorders. Dr. Loberger explains the quality improvement efforts under way that focus on implementing current clinical practice guidelines, standardizing practice, and aligning goals. Listeners will gain a deep understanding of the nuanced decision-making involved in ventilator liberation and collaborative efforts to improve outcomes for critically ill children. Resources referenced in this episode: Implementing the Pediatric Ventilator Liberation Guidelines Using the Most Current Evidence (Loberger JM, et al. Respir Care. 2024;69:869-880) Executive Summary: International Clinical Practice Guidelines for Pediatric Ventilator Liberation, A Pediatric Acute Lung Injury and Sepsis Investigators (PALISI) Network Document (Abu-Sultaneh S, et al. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2023;207:17-28)

In this episode of the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) Podcast, host Diane C. McLaughlin, DNP, AGACNP-BC, CCRN, FCCM, welcomes guests Kaitlin M. Alexander, PharmD, BCCCP, and Ankit Sakhuja, MD, MS, FCCM, from SCCM’s Leadership, Empowerment, and Development (LEAD) Program, to discuss the use of AI in critical care education and clinical practice. Dr. Alexander is a clinical associate professor in the Department of Pharmacy Education and Practice at University of Florida. Dr. Sakhuja is the director of artificial intelligence and informatics at the Institute for Critical Care Medicine and director of clinical informatics research in the Division of Data-Driven and Digital Medicine. The discussion highlights how critical care educators and clinicians benefit from learning how to use AI and understanding its benefits and limitations. Incorporating AI into critical care education teaches students how to use AI responsibly in school and later in clinical practice. Clinicians should understand the utility of different AI models for patient care and be well versed in the ethical and legal treatment of patient data. Drs. Alexander and Sakhuja provide examples of practical uses for AI in critical care. AI can help students test their knowledge with interactive case simulations paired with discussion with instructors and peers. AI can analyze vast amounts of patient data, supporting clinical decision-making. The guests encourage clinicians and educators in critical care to engage with AI and contribute to its responsible use. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the uses of AI.

In this episode of the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) Podcast, host Marilyn N. Bulloch, PharmD, BCPS, FCCM, welcomes Matheus Bannach, MD, of Urgency Hospital of Goyes in the Eruseo-Dorne Cancer Hospital in Brazil. They discuss Dr. Bannach’s article, “Transfusion Practices in Traumatic Brain Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials,” published in the April 2025 issue of Critical Care Medicine. The study compared liberal and restrictive strategies for patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI). They found that a liberal transfusion strategy results in better neurologic outcomes than a restrictive strategy. Drs. Bulloch and Bannach discuss the importance of optimizing transfusion thresholds, the risks and benefits of blood transfusion for critically ill patients, and the limited supply of donated blood. The conversation also covers study methodology. Dr. Bannach explains the choice of main end point for the study, the process of selecting articles to include, and the rigorous peer review process. Listeners will find guidance for optimizing blood transfusion in patients with TBI, as well as key insights into review methodology. More discussion of this article can be found in the April 2025 Critical Content video. Resources referenced in this episode: Transfusion Practices in Traumatic Brain Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials (Larcipretti ALL, et al. Crit Care Med. 2025;53:e963-e972).

In this episode of the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) Podcast, host Kyle B. Enfield, MD, FCCM, welcomes Vincenzo Russotto, MD, of the University of Turin in Turin, Italy to discuss Dr. Russotto’s article, “Induction Agents for Tracheal Intubation in Critically Ill Patients,” published in the January 2025 issue of Critical Care Medicine. Drs. Enfield and Russotto explore the decision of which induction drugs to use for patients undergoing tracheal intubation. They discuss research challenges such as the ethics of which drugs can be tested on patients and the emergent nature of many tracheal intubations. Dr. Russotto discusses the advantages and disadvantages of ketamine as an induction agent and describes current clinical thinking on etomidate and propofol. His study made no definitive conclusions but found evidence that ketamine may have a safer profile and etomidate and propofol may be associated with negative effects. Dr. Russotto emphasizes the need to individualize patient treatment and shares examples of induction agent combinations. He encourages clinicians to consider hemodynamic optimization along with the use of intubation agents. Listeners will gain insights to inform patient care. Resources referenced in this episode: Induction Agents for Tracheal Intubation in Critically Ill Patients (Kotani Y, et al. Crit Care Med. 2025;53:e173-e181).

In this episode of the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) Podcast, host Marilyn N. Bulloch, PharmD, BCPS, FCCM, welcomes Bram Tilburgs, RN, PhD, of Radboud University Medical Center in Nijmegen, Netherlands. They discuss Dr. Tilburgs’ article, “Associations Between Physical, Cognitive, and Mental Health Domains of Post-Intensive Care Syndrome and Quality of Life: A Longitudinal Multicenter Cohort Study,” published in the January 2025 issue of Critical Care Medicine. The conversation offers key insights into the prevalence and long-term effects of post-intensive care syndrome (PICS). Dr. Tilburgs’ study surveyed intensive care unit (ICU) patients on their quality of life three months, twelve months, and two years after ICU discharge. The survey included physical, cognitive, and mental health domains. The findings show a significant link between PICS and diminished long-term quality of life. Drs. Bulloch and Tilburgs discuss how these results highlight the need for PICS prevention across all three domains. They review potential strategies, such as diaries to help patients better understand their ICU experience. Dr. Tilburgs also highlights the benefits of his institution’s discussion group for ICU survivors. Listeners will gain key insights on the long-term effects of PICS, actionable ideas for improving ICU patient care, and ideas for future research. Resources referenced in this episode:  Associations Between Physical, Cognitive, and Mental Health Domains of Post-Intensive Care Syndrome and Quality of Life: A Longitudinal Multicenter Cohort Study (Tilburgs B, et al. Crit Care Med. 2025 Jan;53:e74-e86).

In this episode of the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) Podcast, host Maureen A. Madden, DNP, RN, CPNC-AC, CCRN, FCCM, welcomes Christopher D. Newman, MBA, PA-C, FCCM, of Children's Hospital Colorado, and Victoria Howard, PA-C, of the University of Rochester to discuss professional advancement tracks for advanced practice providers (APPs). APP professional advancement programs aim to improve retention and engagement. Mr. Newman and Ms. Howard highlight additional benefits as well. They explain how the pilot professional advancement tracks at their institutions address specific needs of APPs. Mr. Newman’s program addresses the challenge of recognizing and supporting the nonclinical contributions of predominantly clinical faculty such as APPs. Ms. Howard’s program recognizes APPs’ careers beginning at an early stage and incorporates salary advancement into the program. The guests discuss the practical challenges of implementing a professional advancement model, including finding financial resources, obtaining institutional buy-in, and making the recognition relevant and meaningful to APPs’ work. Both guests emphasize that professional advancement programs should motivate and engage APPs over the course of their careers and encourage more appreciation for their work. The conversation will motivate listeners to explore similar career development programs at their own institutions.

In this episode of the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) Podcast, host Maureen A. Madden, DNP, RN, CPNP-AC, CCRN, FCCM, speaks with James R. Rodrigue, PhD, FAST, and Richard D. Hasz, MS, about their article, “Racial Equity in Family Approach for Patients Medically Suitable for Deceased Organ Donation,” published in the December 2024 issue of Critical Care Medicine. The study found racial equity in organ procurement organization (OPO) family approach among patients who were medically eligible for organ donation. Dr. Rodrigue and Mr. Hasz explain that previous studies showing racial disparity in family approach were based on 25- to 30-year-old data. The changes in organ donation systems since then were what motivated Dr. Rodrigue and Mr. Hasz to conduct new research. Their findings highlight the positive impact of standardized OPO practices on equitable access to organ donation opportunities. Dr. Rodrigue and Mr. Hasz emphasize the importance of timely referral, family-centered communication, and coordination between hospital teams and OPOs in facilitating donation conversations during emotionally charged moments. These practices complement advances in technology and expanded donor eligibility criteria to make more donations possible. Integrating organ donation information into driver education programs and expanding registration opportunities to settings such as voter registration can also help increase awareness and informed consent, especially among young people. Resources referenced in this episode:  Racial Equity in Family Approach for Patients Medically Suitable for Deceased Organ Donation (Rodrigue JR, et al. Crit Care Med. 2024;52:1877-1884).

In this episode of the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) Podcast, host Elizabeth H. Mack, MD, MS, FCCM, speaks with Anil Sachdev, MD, FICCM, of the Institute of Child Health, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in New Delhi, India about his team’s study, “Transpulmonary Pressure-Guided Mechanical Ventilation in Severe Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome in the PICU: Single-Center Retrospective Study in North India, 2018–2021,” published in the March 2025 issue of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine. Dr. Sachdev explains the development and implementation at his institution of a protocol for transpulmonary pressure (TPP) monitoring in pediatric patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome. His team compared outcomes of patients receiving TPP-guided ventilation with those receiving conventional mechanical ventilation. Study findings suggested that TPP monitoring enabled the use of higher positive end-expiratory pressure with greater clinician confidence, resulting in improved oxygenation. Study limitations included small sample size and challenges of equipment availability, cost, and obtaining parental consent. The study was conducted in part during the COVID-19 pandemic, which further constrained resources and study participation. The discussion concludes with Dr. Sachdev’s insights into practical challenges of TPP monitoring, including inserting delicate esophageal catheters in infants and young children and the necessity of correct catheter position for accurate readings. Resources referenced in this episode: Transpulmonary Pressure-Guided Mechanical Ventilation in Severe Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome in the PICU: Single-Center Retrospective Study in North India, 2018–2021 (Sachdev A, et al. Pediatr Crit Care Med. 2025;26:e354-e363).

In this episode of the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) Podcast, host Kyle B. Enfield, MD, FCCM, speaks with Garrett McDougall, MS, MSc, and Ben Forestell, MD, of McMaster University about their recent study, “Direct Laryngoscopy Versus Video Laryngoscopy for Intubation in Critically Ill Patients: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Trial Sequential Analysis of Randomized Trials,” published in the November 2024 issue of Critical Care Medicine. The study included 20 randomized controlled trials encompassing 4569 patients to investigate whether video laryngoscopy (VL) offers advantages over direct laryngoscopy (DL) for intubation in critically ill patients.  A key finding of the study was that VL probably improves first-pass success rates and reduces the risk of esophageal intubation and dental injury. These benefits extend across the spectrum of operator experience, especially among novice operators but also among seasoned operators.   Drs. McDougall and Forestell discuss findings that surprised them, such as seeing equal benefit for standard VL and hyperangulated VL devices. Additionally, no clear benefits were found for patients who were intubated emergently with VL as compared to those who underwent elective intubation. The discussion covers what could be next for resuscitation and airway research in critically ill patients. There may be more to learn about scenarios involving difficult airways, soiled airways, and emergent versus elective intubation. More research on device characteristics could also provide important insights. To wrap up, the guests underscore the importance of maintaining both VL and DL proficiency since DL can be a more appropriate choice for some patients. Resources referenced in this episode: Direct Laryngoscopy Versus Video Laryngoscopy for Intubation in Critically Ill Patients: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Trial Sequential Analysis of Randomized Trials (McDougall GG, et al. Crit Care Med. 2024;52:1674-1685).

In this episode of the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) Podcast, host Marilyn N. Bulloch, PharmD, BCPS, FCCM, speaks with Christy C. Forehand, PharmD, BCCCP, FCCM, about retaining highly skilled pharmacists in the ICU setting. Dr. Forehand, a clinical pharmacy specialist and residency program director at Augusta University Medical Center and the University of Georgia College of Pharmacy, shares evidence-based insights and personal reflections on how pharmacist retention directly impacts quality and safety in patient care. The conversation highlights growing concerns around burnout and attrition among ICU pharmacists, underscoring how their involvement improves clinical and economic outcomes—ranging from medication safety and reduced ventilator days to optimized transitions of care. Drawing on American College of Clinical Pharmacy (ACCP) publications and American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) guidance, Dr. Forehand outlines strategies for building retention plans that prioritize recognition, advancement opportunities, career mentorship, and structural supports such as protected administrative time. She emphasizes how institutional practices such as improved scheduling, remote work models, and role-specific stipends can prevent burnout while reinforcing team trust and efficiency. Resources referenced in this episode: SCCM’s Leadership, Empowerment, and Development (LEAD) Program, which supports professional development Rewards, Recognition, and Advancement for Clinical Pharmacists (Bondi DS, et al. J Am Coll Clin Pharm. 2023;6:427-439)

In this episode of the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) Podcast, host Kyle B. Enfield, MD, FCCM, speaks with Brian T. Wessman, MD, FACEP, FCCM, and Fajun Wang, MD, about maximizing professional growth through active engagement with SCCM. Drawing on their personal experiences, the guests reflect on how early involvement through residency, fellowship, and the Fundamental Critical Care Support (FCCS) course ignited long-term involvement in the Society. Drs. Wessman and Wang outline actionable strategies for new and seasoned members alike. They emphasize the value of committee and section participation, trainee liaison roles, and the mentorship programs, particularly the initiative tailored for international medical graduates. The conversation sheds light on the application process and professional significance of becoming a Fellow of the American College of Critical Care Medicine (FCCM). Whether you're navigating your first SCCM Congress or considering applying for FCCM designation, this episode is a comprehensive guide to supersizing your SCCM membership—turning involvement into influence and professional growth into sustained impact. Resources referenced in this episode: SCCM’s LearnICU platform  Choosing Wisely for Critical Care: The Next Five (Zimmerman JJ, et al. Crit Care Med. 2021;49:472-481) The Definition of the Intensivist in the Era of Global Healthcare (Wu D, et al. Crit Care Med. 2025;53:e548-e554).

Mark E. Hamill, MD, FCCM, a trauma surgeon, intensivist, and past chair of the Society of Critical Care Medicine’s (SCCM) Fundamental Critical Care Support (FCCS) Committee, discusses the evolution, impact, and future of training of critical care. In this SCCM podcast, Dr. Hamill reflects on his decade-long journey with FCCS, beginning with local implementation at his former institution to eventually leading national and international Fundamentals efforts. He shares powerful stories from training initiatives in Rwanda, Palestine, and war-time Ukraine—highlighting the program’s global reach and ability to empower frontline clinicians. Central to the discussion is Dr. Hamill’s published study, “Impact of Standardized Multidisciplinary Critical Care Training on Confidence with Critical Illness and Attitudes Towards Interprofessional Education and Multidisciplinary Care” (Hamill ME, et al. J Intensive Care Med. 2024;39:320-327). The study analyzed survey data from 328 multidisciplinary learners and demonstrated significant increases in participants’ self-assessed confidence across key critical care domains—including sepsis, respiratory failure, shock, and neurologic illness—after completing FCCS. The findings support what many instructors have long observed anecdotally: FCCS builds competence, fosters interprofessional collaboration, and enhances learners’ readiness to respond to critically ill patients. Dr. Hamill also explains the study’s methodology, including retrospective precourse analysis and a three-month follow-up, and shares insights about future research plans involving simulation-based evaluation to assess knowledge retention and behavior change. Whether you are considering hosting a Fundamentals course, becoming an instructor, or expanding your training programs, this podcast episode offers compelling evidence of FCCS’s lasting value in skills acquisition and elevating the culture of care.

Aarti Sarwal, MD, FAAN, FNCS, FCCM, professor of neurology at Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, explores the nuanced intersection of neurology and critical care, offering practical insights for clinicians across disciplines. Dr. Sarwal shares her perspective on the unique challenges of managing neurocritically ill patients, particularly when impairment presents challenges in administering a neurologic examination. She emphasizes that “the brain is the barometer of critical illness,” urging clinicians to prioritize daily neurologic evaluations and integrate neuromonitoring even in non-neurologic ICU populations. Listeners will gain an overview of tools such as continuous EEG, transcranial Doppler, emboli monitoring, and multimodal neuromonitoring platforms, including the role of neuro-ultrasound in expanding point-of-care capabilities. This episode also highlights the need for multidisciplinary collaboration and a shared decision-making model that extends across the continuum of care—from early ICU admission to post-discharge recovery. Listeners will appreciate Dr. Sarwal’s reflections on neuroprognostication and the ethical dimensions of care withdrawal, particularly the danger of therapeutic nihilism in patients whose outcomes are uncertain. Referencing a 2023 review she coauthored (Crit Care Med. 2023;51:525-542), Dr. Sarwal outlines a practical framework for neuromonitoring that integrates structural, electrical, vascular, and metabolic insights. This conversation provides a timely and inclusive look at the future of neurocritical care—where technology, teamwork, and training converge to support better patient outcomes.