SPEAKER: Karen Chasse
ROOM: Versailles 1/2
CONTACT HOURS: 1
CRNI RUs: 2

This session provides a comprehensive overview of infusion nursing care for patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), focusing on intravenous therapies. Participants will gain an understanding of PAH pathophysiology, prevalence, and treatment progression, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and therapy. The session covers practical considerations for initiating intravenous therapies, including vascular access device selection and patient/caregiver requirements. Evidence-based guidelines for catheter care, medication management, and sterile techniques are highlighted, along with strategies for addressing complications like infections, occlusions, and rebound PAH. Through interactive discussions and case scenarios, nurses will also explore tapering and transitioning of PAH medications, emergency protocols, and effective patient education methods to optimize outcomes across inpatient, outpatient, and home care settings. 

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, learners will be able to: • Describe the causes and therapy options for PAH • Discuss practical requirements and vascular access devices • Emphasize evidence-based protocols for infusion therapy • Address nursing considerations, complications, and patient education • Explain emergency protocols for infused prostacyclin and transitioning and tapering of PAH medications.