Griffiths, Carrie L.; Vestal, Mark L.; Hertel, Kristie A.

Vasoactive agents, such as vasopressors and inotropes, are frequently needed to manage the patient in shock and prevent adverse outcomes. This article reviews the clinical manifestations of shock, as well as the vasoactive agents used to manage shock and what critical care nurses need to know about these important drugs.

McGlory, Gayle; Davis, Ana E.; Kirksey, Kenn M.

Pain is one of the most common patient complaints in the critical care setting. This article covers the problems associated with monomodal analgesia, evidence-based pain assessment methods and interventions, multimodal pharmacology, complementary and alternative medicine, and nursing considerations for patients with acute pain.

Madiraca, Jessica; Hoch, Christine

The latest installment in our Electrolyte Series explores the reciprocal relationship between calcium and phosphate, the main circulating form of phosphorus. Critical care nurses need to understand the significance of calcium and phosphorus imbalances to achieve optimal patient outcomes.

Kroning, Maureen; Listopad, Katerina

The number of transgender patients electing to undergo gender confirmation surgery (GCS) is growing. Still, many healthcare providers are unfamiliar with these procedures and their potential complications. This article explores GCS and postsurgical complications, and provides up-to-date terminology and educational resources.