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Explore every episode of the podcast Real World NP

Dive into the complete episode list for Real World NP. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
Preoperative Exams in Primary Care: A Guide for Nurse Practitioners23 Oct 202600:11:18

You're seeing a patient for a preoperative evaluation before an upcoming surgery. The surgeon has requested some testing and documentation—but how do you determine what your patient actually needs before their procedure?


Which patients need additional cardiovascular evaluation? When should you use RCRI or DASI? Do you need to order an ECG, chest X-ray, or routine labs? And how do you document your assessment without saying the patient is "cleared" for surgery?


In this updated episode of Real World NP, we're walking through a practical approach to the preoperative evaluation for noncardiac surgery in primary care, including updated cardiovascular risk assessment recommendations and how to apply them during an actual patient visit.


What You'll Learn:


  • What your role is during a preoperative evaluation
  • How to assess surgical risk and identify reasons to pause before surgery
  • Using RCRI, ACS NSQIP, and DASI to assess cardiovascular risk and functional capacity
  • What to include in the preoperative history and physical exam
  • Assessing chronic conditions and pulmonary risk before surgery
  • When preoperative labs, ECGs, and imaging are indicated
  • Medication considerations before surgery, including anticoagulants, diabetes medications, and SGLT2 inhibitors
  • What to document and communicate to the surgical and anesthesia teams


Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction

01:32 – Your role in the preoperative evaluation

02:13 – Assessing surgical risk

03:04 – Reasons to pause before surgery

03:58 – Cardiovascular risk assessment: RCRI and ACS NSQIP

04:45 – Functional capacity and DASI

05:24 – Preoperative history and chronic conditions

06:56 – Pulmonary risk assessment

07:25 – Physical exam and selective testing

08:25 – Perioperative medication considerations

09:37 – Documenting the preoperative evaluation


Resources Mentioned:

Preoperative Evaluation Cheat Sheet: A quick-reference guide to surgical risk, cardiovascular assessment, functional capacity, testing, and documentation. Get your copy at www.realworldnp.com/binder


For a full transcript and conversation chapters, visit the blog: https://www.realworldnp.com/blog/preop-exam-nurse-practitioner

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© 2026 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see https://www.realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

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Starting Insulin in Type 2 Diabetes (2026 Updates)15 Oct 202600:10:34

Starting insulin in type 2 diabetes can feel intimidating—especially when you're a new NP seeing a patient with an A1C of 13% or 14% and wondering: Does this patient need insulin? Can I safely manage them outpatient? And how much insulin should I actually start?


In this episode, I walk through a practical approach to starting basal insulin in adults with type 2 diabetes, including updates from the 2026 ADA and AACE guidelines.


We'll cover when insulin is appropriate, how to calculate a starting dose, how to titrate using fasting blood glucose, and what to do when fasting glucose is at goal but A1C remains elevated.


We'll also talk about CGM, preventing hypoglycemia, and making insulin initiation manageable for patients—because you don't have to solve everything in one visit, but you do need to make sure your patient can safely manage their treatment at home.


For a full transcript and conversation chapters, visit the blog: www.realworldnp.com/blog/starting-insulin-type-2-diabetes


Need a Quick Insulin Reference?


The Digital NP Binder includes an updated Starting Insulin in Type 2 Diabetes cheat sheet with dosing, titration, monitoring, and treatment considerations for primary care. https://www.realworldnp.com/binder


Want More Support with Diabetes Management?


The Diabetes Management in Primary Care course covers medication selection, treatment adjustments, insulin therapy, diabetes monitoring, and more. https://www.realworldnp.com/diabetes

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© 2026 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see https://www.realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

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COPD Exacerbations: A Guide for Nurse Practitioners08 Oct 202600:12:42

A patient with COPD comes in with worsening cough, sputum, and shortness of breath. Is this actually a COPD exacerbation? Can you safely treat them outpatient? And do they need antibiotics?


In this episode, I walk through a practical approach to evaluating and treating COPD exacerbations in primary care, including updates from the 2025–2026 GOLD guidelines.


We’ll talk through how to rule out other causes of worsening respiratory symptoms, assess exacerbation severity, decide when a patient needs a higher level of care, and choose appropriate treatment—including bronchodilators, prednisone, and antibiotics.


TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 COPD exacerbations: 2025–2026 update

01:30 Confirming COPD + the patient's baseline

02:19 COPD exacerbation or something else?

04:26 Assessing severity + when to escalate care

07:20 COPD exacerbation treatment: inhalers + prednisone

08:00 When do you need antibiotics?

10:45 Follow-up + reassessing long-term COPD treatment

For a full transcript, resources mentioned in this episode, and conversation chapters, visit the blog: www.realworldnp.com/blog/copd-exacerbation-new-nurse-practitioner

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© 2026 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see https://www.realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

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COPD Management (2026 Updates)01 Oct 202600:16:52

COPD guidelines have changed—and if you’re managing COPD in primary care, there are a few updates worth knowing.


In this episode, I walk through how to approach a patient with COPD at a routine visit, especially when you’re seeing them for the first time or inheriting their care from another provider.

We’ll cover how to confirm the diagnosis with spirometry, how to think about GOLD 1–4 alongside the ABE assessment, and how the mMRC and CAT scores fit into your assessment. We’ll also talk about alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency testing, blood eosinophils and inhaled corticosteroids, initial inhaler therapy, and what to monitor at follow-up.


I also walk through the pieces of COPD management beyond medications—including smoking cessation, vaccinations, exercise and nutrition, pulmonary rehabilitation, and management of comorbidities.


In this episode:

00:00 – Introduction + COPD guideline updates

01:03 – Approaching COPD management in primary care

01:53 – Confirming COPD with spirometry and FEV1/FVC

03:01 – Pre-COPD and PRISm

03:53 – GOLD 1–4 and the ABE assessment

05:12 – Using the mMRC and CAT scores

06:23 – What to assess at a COPD follow-up visit

07:50 – Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency testing

08:26 – Blood eosinophils and inhaled corticosteroids

09:37 – COPD management beyond inhalers

11:15 – Pulmonary rehabilitation and comorbidities

11:37 – SABA, SAMA, LABA, LAMA, and ICS

12:21 – Initial COPD treatment by GOLD ABE group

13:50 – Initial treatment for Groups A and B

14:35 – COPD follow-up and spirometry

15:04 – Chest imaging and lung cancer screening

15:46 – When to refer to pulmonology


COPD cheat sheet + Digital NP Binder: realworldnp.com/binder


For a full transcript and conversation chapters, visit the blog: https://www.realworldnp.com/blog/copd-management

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© 2026 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see https://www.realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

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GI Specialist Interview: H. pylori, GERD, Celiac, Constipation & When to Refer28 Aug 202600:58:04


What does a GI specialist wish primary care providers knew before sending a referral?


In this episode, I’m joined by family nurse practitioner Paige Sosebee, who has worked in gastroenterology since 2019 at a large academic medical center. We talk through some of the most common GI concerns we see in primary care—and what happens on the other side of the referral.

Paige shares practical pearls on H. pylori testing and treatment, GERD and PPI trials, evaluating abnormal liver tests, celiac testing, chronic constipation, SIBO and intestinal methanogen overgrowth (IMO), and how primary care can make GI referrals more useful for both the specialist and the patient.


We also talk about something that comes up constantly for newer NPs: How much of this am I actually supposed to manage myself, and when is it time to ask a specialist for help?


In this episode, we cover:


  • H. pylori testing, treatment, and common pitfalls
  • GERD management and when to consider EGD
  • Elevated liver enzymes and what to do before referring
  • Celiac testing and the importance of testing before going gluten-free
  • Chronic constipation, red flags, and initial management
  • SIBO and intestinal methanogen overgrowth (IMO)
  • How to make GI referrals more useful—and when they’re truly urgent

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction

02:19 – Meet GI specialist Paige Sosebee, FNP

04:31 – H. pylori testing, treatment & referrals

13:20 – GERD, PPIs & when to consider endoscopy

20:06 – Alginate therapy for GERD

22:31 – Elevated liver tests & GI referrals

24:51 – Elevated alkaline phosphatase & imaging

30:00 – Celiac disease testing

41:10 – Chronic constipation

46:00 – SIBO & intestinal methanogen overgrowth (IMO)

52:50 – When to refer to a GI specialist

56:00 – Clinical resources for primary care NPs


For a full transcript and conversation chapters, visit the blog: http://www.realworldnp.com/blog/gi-specialist

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© 2026 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see https://www.realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

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Interview with a Nephrologist: CKD, Dialysis & When to Refer13 Aug 202601:01:04

When should you refer a patient with CKD to nephrology—and what should you do before they get there?


In this episode, I’m joined by nephrologist and medical educator Dr. Rachel Hilburg to talk through the questions that come up all the time in primary care: interpreting proteinuria and hematuria, deciding when a nephrology referral is urgent, what labs and imaging to order before referral, and what we can actually do to slow CKD progression.


We also talk about the Kidney Failure Risk Equation, cystatin C, kidney-protective medications, preparing patients for dialysis and transplant, caring for patients already on dialysis, and a practical approach to hyponatremia.


Want to feel more confident managing CKD in primary care?

The Chronic Kidney Disease Management Course walks you through CKD diagnosis, monitoring, treatment, slowing disease progression, and when to refer to nephrology.

CKD Management Course: https://www.realworldnp.com/ckd 

Or get the CKD course as part of the Chronic Care Bundle, which also includes diabetes, hypertension, and kidney lab interpretation.

Chronic Care Bundle: https://www.realworldnp.com/chronic-care-series-bundle 

For a full transcript and conversation chapters, visit the blog www.realworldnp.com/blog/nephrologist

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© 2026 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see https://www.realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.



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Structural Heart Disease in Primary Care: When to Suspect Valve Disease & When to Refer30 Jul 202600:31:51

Valvular heart disease often presents gradually— often slowly becoming more fatigued, less active, or more short of breath over time— making it easy for symptoms to be attributed to aging or deconditioning. In this episode, Liz Rohr sits down with structural heart nurse practitioner Christy Cantey, FNP, to discuss how primary care clinicians can recognize subtle symptoms of valve disease, know when an echocardiogram is appropriate, and understand what happens after a patient is referred to a structural heart program.

They also discuss modern transcatheter valve procedures—including TAVR and TEER—and how these minimally invasive treatments have changed outcomes for patients with aortic stenosis and other valvular diseases.

Timestamps

00:00 Meet Christy Cantey, NP

02:02 What Is Structural Heart Disease?

03:22 Understanding Modern Valve Procedures

06:05 Symptoms That Should Raise Concern

07:28 Two Questions That Reveal Functional Decline

08:51 Why Patients Often Don't Realize How Sick They Feel

09:47 The Challenge of Detecting Heart Murmurs

11:09 When to Order an Echocardiogram

12:07 Why Early Referral Matters

15:35 Working With Structural Heart Programs

18:15 What TAVR and Valve Procedures Are Really Like

20:56 Primary Care Follow-Up After Valve Intervention

23:19 Long-Term Monitoring and Annual Echocardiograms

26:17 How to Counsel Patients Who Are Hesitant About Treatment

32:32 Clinical Pearls and Resources for Learning More


For a full transcript and conversation chapters, visit the blog http://www.realworldnp.com/blog/valve-disease-primary-care

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© 2026 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see https://www.realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.



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How to Use the PREVENT Risk Calculator16 Jul 202600:08:59

The PREVENT Risk Calculator is a newer cardiovascular risk assessment tool developed by the American College of Cardiology (ACC) and American Heart Association (AHA). Designed to replace older pooled cohort equations, it provides a more comprehensive estimate of cardiovascular risk, including both atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and heart failure risk.

In this episode, Liz Rohr breaks down what the PREVENT calculator is, how to use it in clinical practice, and why it's becoming an increasingly important part of cardiovascular risk assessment in primary care.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Overview of the Prevent Risk Calculator and its significance in cardiovascular risk assessment

00:26 - How the calculator improves risk estimation over previous tools

01:16 - Key inputs needed for the calculator and optional risk-enhancing factors

01:41 - Incorporating additional data like zip code, A1C, and urine albumin

02:07 - Interpreting 10- and 30-year risk results for ASCVD and heart failure

03:02 - Thresholds for hypertension (≥7.5%) and hyperlipidemia risk categories

03:38 - Practical tips for clinicians on using and interpreting the tool

04:06 - Importance of risk-enhancing factors and patient-specific decision-making

04:55 - Limitations of population-based risks and underestimation in young adults

05:52 - Avoiding over-reliance on the calculator and considering the full clinical picture

06:46 - Summary: integrating the Prevent calculator into patient conversations and management pathways 


For a full transcript and conversation chapters, visit the blog https://www.realworldnp.com/blog/prevent-calculator-aha

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© 2026 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see https://www.realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.



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New Hypertension Guidelines: Practical Updates with Dr. Jordy Cohen02 Jul 202600:56:00
Hypertension Guidelines Updates: Practical Pearls for Primary Care with Dr. Jordy Cohen

What actually changed in the newest hypertension guidelines—and what should nurse practitioners be doing differently in clinic?

In this episode, Liz Rohr, MSN, FNP-BC, sits down with Dr. Jordy Cohen, nephrologist, hypertension specialist, researcher, and member of the hypertension guideline writing committee, to break down the updates that matter most for primary care.

Rather than reviewing every recommendation, this conversation focuses on the clinical decisions that can make the biggest difference in practice. Dr. Cohen shares practical guidance on medication selection, single-pill combination therapy, resistant hypertension, screening for primary aldosteronism, and evaluating younger patients with elevated blood pressure. The discussion also covers the PREVENT risk calculator, home blood pressure monitoring, white coat hypertension, and common treatment mistakes that can be avoided in everyday clinical practice.

Whether you're learning hypertension management for the first time or updating your approach based on the latest evidence, this episode offers practical strategies you can apply immediately in primary care.

Timestamps

00:00 – Meet Dr. Jordy Cohen and the new hypertension guidelines

02:27 – Biggest changes in the updated guidelines

04:00 – The PREVENT risk calculator explained

07:30 – Managing hypertension in younger adults

11:40 – Secondary hypertension workup and screening pearls

15:20 – Resistant hypertension: What specialists wish primary care would do first

19:20 – When to start one medication vs. combination therapy

22:10 – Choosing first-line antihypertensive medications

25:40 – Hydrochlorothiazide vs. chlorthalidone vs. indapamide

29:45 – Primary aldosteronism: Who should be screened?

36:00 – Why PRN clonidine should be avoided in severe asymptomatic hypertension

41:10 – Home blood pressure monitoring, white coat hypertension, and validated cuffs

49:40 – Microalbuminuria and practical pearls for primary care

If you found this episode helpful, be sure to subscribe to the Real World NP Podcast and share it with a colleague.

Real World NP provides practical, evidence-based continuing education designed specifically for nurse practitioners to bridge the gap between graduate education and real-world practice.

For a full transcript and conversation chapters, visit the blog https://www.realworldnp.com/blog/HTN-updates-2026. 

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© 2026 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see https://www.realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.



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Microalbuminuria (2026 Updates): Lab Interpretation for Nurse Practitioners30 Jun 202600:12:27

Urine microalbumin is one of the earliest indicators of kidney damage, but the terminology—and the recommendations—have changed over the past several years.

In this episode, Liz reviews the 2026 updates to urine microalbumin interpretation, including the transition to albuminuria and the urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR), new hypertension screening recommendations, and practical pearls that every primary care nurse practitioner should know.

Whether you're a new graduate or an experienced NP looking for a refresher, this episode will help you better understand what the test measures, when to order it, and how to avoid some of the most common interpretation pitfalls.

Chapters:


00:00 Introduction to Microalbuminuria

01:38 Understanding Urine Microalbumin Testing

06:44 Clinical Significance of Microalbumin Levels

10:38 Conclusion and Course Invitation

11:40 Introduction to Real WorldNP Podcast

11:40 Exploring Resources for New NPs


The Renal Lab Interpretation course takes a deeper, case-based approach to urine albumin, creatinine, eGFR, electrolyte abnormalities, and common kidney disorders seen in primary care.

We’re doing a LIVE round of the Lab Interpretation Series (which includes the Renal Lab Interpretation Course) starting in August with Live Q&As, learn more https://www.realworldnp.com/live


For a full transcript and conversation chapters, visit the blog https://www.realworldnp.com/blog/microalbuminuria-2026-updates 

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© 2026 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see https://www.realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.



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Navigating IBS with Dr. Zach Spiritos18 Jun 202600:49:53

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common—and often frustrating—conditions seen in primary care. Patients may come in with chronic abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, or a mix of symptoms, and many have already been told that their testing is “normal.” So how do you confidently evaluate IBS, rule out more serious conditions, and help patients move forward?


In this episode, Liz talks with neurogastroenterologist Dr. Zach Spiritos about the real-world approach to IBS, including the underlying pathophysiology, common diagnostic pitfalls, practical workup strategies, and treatment options that go far beyond medication alone.


Whether you're a new NP or an experienced clinician, this episode offers practical strategies to help you approach IBS with greater confidence and compassion.


Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to Dr. Zach Spiritos and episode overview

02:16 - Pathway into neuro gastroenterology and training background

05:06 - What is IBS? Symptoms, diagnosis, and underlying mechanisms

07:36 - Factors contributing to IBS: trauma, antibiotics, triggers

09:21 - Differential diagnosis: celiac, SIBO, bile acid malabsorption

11:54 - When to consider endoscopy and testing strategies

14:35 - History-taking tips for primary care clinicians

17:54 - Managing expectations in chronic GI conditions

20:12 - Overuse of endoscopy and its limited findings

22:08 - Understanding what endoscopy can actually reveal

24:23 - Communicating with patients who have “all tests normal”

27:40 - The multitude of IBS treatment approaches: diet, psychological, medication

32:12 - Role of diet and FODMAP in symptom management

35:10 - Pharmacological options for IBSC and IBSD

39:06 - Medications overview: Linzess, Amitiza, Viberzi, and others

44:04 - The role and limitations of probiotics and fiber

45:08 - Tips on managing patient expectations and chronicity

46:54 - Setting goals and tracking progress with patients

48:16 - Final advice: empower patients with knowledge, manage expectations, and tailor treatments


For a full transcript and conversation chapters, visit the blog www.realworldnp.com/blog/ibs

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© 2026 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see https://www.realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.



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Podcast Hiatus, Accreditation & We’re Hiring!13 Feb 202500:07:52

Hey! We’re taking a hiatus from the podcast while the team focuses on becoming an accredited organization for continuing education. We’re developing new courses to bridge the gap between graduate education and real-world practice.


In the meantime, we’re inviting clinicians to contribute to paid blog posts and articles— we want to build a community dedicated to quality education and patient care.


Stay informed of upcoming content by subscribing to our email list at www.realworldnp.com/guide.


Apply to become a blog post writer here!


For a full transcript and conversation chapters, visit the blog http://www.realworldnp.com/blog/podcast-break

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Navigating Confrontation at Work as an NP28 Nov 202400:14:38

This episode focuses on leadership and role transition questions, specifically addressing a scenario where a new nurse practitioner is struggling with confrontational conversations with nursing staff. The host provides advice on how to navigate these situations using a framework called nonviolent communication. The framework involves expressing observations, feelings, needs, and requests in a clear and non-confrontational manner. The host also emphasizes the importance of building rapport and facilitating open communication within the team. Additional resources and episodes on leadership are recommended.


Key Takeaways:


-Leadership is a challenging skill to navigate, especially in the healthcare field where there is often a lack of training.

-Using the nonviolent communication framework can help facilitate difficult conversations by expressing observations, feelings, needs, and requests.

-Building rapport and open communication within the team is crucial for effective collaboration and patient care.

-Seeking support and additional resources on leadership can further enhance leadership skills and strategies.


For a full transcript and conversation chapters, visit the blog www.realworldnp.com/blog/confrontation


© 2024 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see https://www.realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.



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Path to Overcoming Disillusionment in Healthcare with Rebecca Arnold14 Nov 202400:57:29

Rebecca Arnold, a holistic leadership coach, discusses the challenges of disillusionment and burnout in mission-driven professions like nursing and medicine. She emphasizes the importance of addressing emotions and processing them in a safe and titrated manner. Rebecca highlights the concept of the window of tolerance and suggests practices like meditation and mindfulness to expand it. She also emphasizes the value of emotions as sources of information and intuition. The path from disillusionment to fulfillment involves sitting with emotions, seeking support from professionals, and making small changes within the system. In this conversation, Rebecca and Liz discuss the path to overcoming disillusionment in the medical field. They explore the importance of addressing emotions, internal mechanisms, and finding opportunities for wins. They also discuss the role of grief and the need for self-compassion. Rebecca shares examples of clients who have transformed their experiences and found fulfillment in their work. They also discuss Rebecca's book, 'The Rooted Renegade,' which offers practical tools and strategies for navigating disillusionment and finding alignment in life and work.


Takeaways


  • Addressing and processing emotions is crucial in combating disillusionment and burnout.
  • Expanding the window of tolerance through practices like meditation and mindfulness can help handle emotions.
  • Emotions provide valuable information and intuition that should not be ignored.
  • Seeking support from professionals is important, especially when dealing with trauma or intense emotions.
  • Making small changes within the system can contribute to a sense of fulfillment and well-being. Addressing emotions and internal mechanisms is crucial in overcoming disillusionment in the medical field.
  • Finding opportunities for wins and recognizing moments of success can help combat feelings of disillusionment.
  • Grief is a common experience in the medical field, and it's important to acknowledge and process it.
  • Self-compassion and self-care are essential in navigating disillusionment and finding fulfillment.
  • Rebecca's book, 'The Rooted Renegade,' offers practical tools and strategies for overcoming disillusionment and finding alignment in life and work.


For a full transcript and conversation chapters, visit the blog www.realworldnp.com/blog/burnout-in-nursing. 

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© 2024 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see https://www.realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

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How to Negotiate a Raise for Nurse Practitioners with Amanda Guarniere24 Oct 202400:53:21

In this conversation, Liz Rohr and Amanda Guarniere discuss negotiating a raise as a nurse practitioner. They emphasize the importance of collecting data about your job performance and your value to the organization. They also highlight the need to consider the employer's perspective and understand what matters to them. The conversation covers productivity metrics, RVUs (Relative Value Units), and the importance of building a case for a raise. They also discuss the different factors to consider in a compensation package and how to approach the conversation with your employer. In this conversation, Liz Rohr and Amanda Guarniere discuss negotiation strategies for healthcare professionals seeking salary increases. They emphasize the importance of preparation, including researching market rates and determining one's value. They also discuss the dynamics of negotiation and the need to disarm the other person and maintain a positive, collegial tone. They provide tips for requesting a meeting, presenting a case, and handling non-committal answers. They also address the challenges of negotiating within a group or tier system and offer advice for advocating for oneself while maintaining a collaborative approach. They discuss the importance of follow-up and provide strategies for handling requests for additional data or delaying decisions. They also mention the NP Salary Report, a resource for healthcare professionals to anonymously submit and access salary data.


Takeaways


- Collect data about your job performance and the value you bring to the organization when asking for a raise.

- Consider the employer's perspective and understand what matters to them.

- Build a case for a raise by highlighting your productivity metrics, such as patient volume and revenue generated.

- Take into account the different factors in a compensation package, including salary, bonuses, benefits, and work schedule.

- Approach the conversation with a partnership mindset, focusing on achieving mutual goals. Research market rates and determine your value before negotiating a salary increase.

- Disarm the other person and maintain a positive, collegial tone during the negotiation.

- Request a meeting without disclosing the purpose, and present your case in a positive and data-driven manner.

- Be prepared for non-committal answers and follow up to close the loop.

- Advocate for yourself within a group or tier system by discussing the issue individually with the lead NP and going through the proper chain of command.

- Be open to alternative forms of compensation or recognition if a salary increase is not immediately possible.

- Use the NP Salary Report to access salary data and support your negotiation efforts.


For a full transcript and conversation chapters, visit the blog www.realworldnp.com/blog/how-to-negotiate-a-raise/. 

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© 2024 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see https://www.realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

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Unexpected Mentorship Questions from New NPs - Interview with Kara Pesola, NP10 Oct 202400:44:37

In this conversation, Liz Rohr and Kara Pesola discuss the challenges and common experiences of new nurse practitioners (NPs). They highlight the importance of support and mentorship for new grads and address the imposter syndrome many NPs experience. They also discuss the common questions and concerns that new NPs have, such as managing complex conditions and navigating controlled substances. The conversation emphasizes the need for new NPs to trust their judgment, seek guidance when needed, and prioritize patient safety. In this conversation, Liz Rohr and Kara Pesola discuss the challenges and considerations in primary care practice. They touch on topics such as bias in medication management, the importance of safety assessments, and the need for patient-centered care. They also highlight the significance of long-term patient-provider relationships and the stages of change in healthcare decision-making. The conversation emphasizes the importance of meeting patients where they are and supporting their well-being.


Takeaways


- New nurse practitioners often experience imposter syndrome and may feel unprepared for the challenges of practice.

- Support and mentorship are crucial for new grads to navigate the transition to practice.

- Common questions and concerns for new NPs include managing complex conditions and navigating controlled substances.

- It is crucial for new NPs to trust their judgment, seek guidance when needed, and prioritize patient safety. Bias exists in medication management, and it is essential to address it in primary care practice.

- Safety assessments and goals of care conversations are crucial in patient-centered care.

- Long-term patient-provider relationships are valuable in managing chronic conditions.

- Understanding the stages of change can help guide healthcare decision-making.

- Meeting patients where they are and supporting their well-being is essential in primary care.


For a full transcript and conversation chapters, visit the blog www.realworldnp.com/blog/mentorship-questions 

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© 2024 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see https://www.realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

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Advice for Creating New NP Mentorship Programs26 Sep 202400:18:17

In this episode, I share my experiences and insights on starting a mentorship program, drawing from my own journey as a nurse practitioner and founder of Real World NP. I discussed the context of mentorship, the structure of one-on-one and group mentorship programs, the frequency and duration of mentorship meetings, and the topics to cover. Additionally, I covered the importance of creating a safe psychological space for mentees and the value of peer support in mentorship programs.


Takeaways


- The importance of creating a safe psychological space for mentees in a mentorship program

- The value of peer support and not feeling alone in a mentorship program

- Considerations for mentorship frequency, duration, and topics to cover in a mentorship program



For a full transcript and conversation chapters, visit the blog www.realworldnp.com/blog/mentorship-programs

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© 2024 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see https://www.realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

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Advice for New Grads Interested in Urgent Care with Michelle Lew, NP12 Sep 202400:40:47

Michelle, a board-certified family nurse practitioner with experience in urgent care, shares her journey and insights into the field. She discusses the differences between urgent care and primary care, the challenges of not having access to medical records in urgent care, and the importance of collaboration between the two. Michelle also provides advice for those interested in working in urgent care and recommends resources for further learning.


Takeaways


- Urgent care is a bridge between primary care and the emergency room, providing care for acute conditions that can't wait for a primary care appointment.

- There is a disconnect between urgent care and primary care, with urgent care often lacking access to patients' medical records.

- It is important for urgent care and primary care to have a better partnership to ensure continuity of care for patients.

- New grads interested in urgent care should work with another provider and have a ramp-up program to ensure success.

- Being able to determine if a patient is sick or stable is a crucial skill in urgent care.

- Resources for learning about urgent care include Hippo Education's Urgent Care Bootcamp, EKG resources by Jen at Cardiology Made Easy, and Michelle's own Instagram account for urgent care resources.



For a full transcript and conversation chapters, visit the blog https://www.realworldnp.com/blog/urgent-care-nurse-practitioner

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© 2024 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see https://www.realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Assessing Chest Pain: New Red Flags & Risk Factors - Interview with Jennifer Carlquist, PA22 Aug 202401:06:46

In this conversation, Liz Rohr interviews Jennifer Carlquist, a physician assistant with extensive experience in cardiology, who discusses the assessment and management of chest pain.


They covered: 

- Assessing cardiac versus noncardiac chest pain

- Assessing risk for MI and when to send patients to the ED or not

- What EKG findings to watch out for, and how to learn more to build your ekg reading confidence (and what’s new!)

- What we can do for patients to assess and manage heart disease risk, including labs and tests to check in primary care (including the coronary calcium score, LPa, and homocysteine)

- How to communicate and collaborate effectively with ER providers

- Further resources to learn if you’re in cardiology or interested in making the switch from primary care


Takeaways


- Consider both cardiac and non-cardiac causes of chest pain, especially in female patients with atypical symptoms.

- Take a detailed history, including risk factors and family history, and be aware of red flags that may indicate a more serious condition.

- Recognize the limitations of certain diagnostic tests, such as EKGs and troponin levels, and consider a CTA with FFR for outpatient testing.

- Collaboration between primary care providers and the ER is crucial, and concise reporting of findings is key to effective communication.

- Differentiating between hyperkalemia T-waves and hyperacute T-waves can be challenging, but hyperkalemia T-waves are pointy and hyperacute T-waves are more blunted and broad-based.

- Inverted T-waves in leads other than AVR and V1, especially if they are symmetric, can indicate the need for urgent evaluation.

- Q-waves can form within an hour of an infarction, and a small Q-wave in lead III without other abnormalities may be a normal finding.

- When learning EKG interpretation, it is important to start with understanding what a normal EKG should look like and then focus on high-risk findings.

- Inflammation is a significant risk factor for heart disease, and non-traditional risk factors such as psoriasis and early menses should be considered.

- Lab tests such as the coronary calcium score, LPa, and homocysteine can provide valuable information in assessing heart disease risk.

- Magnesium supplementation can be beneficial for patients with palpitations and hypertension, but the specific type and dose should be tailored to the individual.

- Primary care providers play a crucial role in assessing heart disease risk and can collaborate with cardiologists to order appropriate tests and make informed decisions.

- The three-day EKG challenge and the Cardiology Fundamentals Mentorship program are valuable resources for learning and advancing in cardiology.

- The importance of fostering a supportive and collaborative environment in healthcare to provide the best care for patients.



For a full transcript and conversation chapters, visit the blog https://www.realworldnp.com/blog/assessing-chest-pain

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© 2024 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see https://www.realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Treating Substance Use Disorder: Stimulants & How to get Addiction Histories - Interview with Shelby Pope08 Aug 202400:52:03

In this conversation, Liz Rohr and Shelby Pope discuss the importance of taking a comprehensive history of substance use, and how to assess and treat stimulant use disorder. They cover the challenges healthcare providers face in asking the right questions, and emphasize the need for open conversations and non-judgmental approaches.


They cover screening for addiction, how to elicit a substance use history, including types and routes of substance use. Shelby covers the mechanism of action of cocaine and methamphetamine in the brain, the withdrawal symptoms associated with stimulant use disorder, and the next steps for primary care providers in managing patients with stimulant use disorder. They also explore the use of psychosocial interventions and off-label pharmacologic treatments for stimulant use disorder.


Takeaways


  • Open and non-judgmental conversations are essential when discussing substance use with patients.
  • Screening practices, such as using screeners like PHQ-2, SBIRT, and DAST, can help identify substance misuse or struggles.
  • Taking a comprehensive history of substance use, including the type, amount, frequency, and motivation, is crucial for providing appropriate care.
  • Healthcare providers should be aware of the different routes of administration and the potential risks associated with each.
  • Stimulant use disorder, particularly cocaine and methamphetamine use, can have significant adverse effects and poor outcomes. Cocaine and methamphetamine are both monoamine neurotransmitter reuptake inhibitors, increasing serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine levels in the brain.
  • There is a withdrawal syndrome associated with stimulant use disorder, characterized by depression, fatigue, and sleep disturbances.
  • In managing patients with stimulant use disorder, primary care providers should consider triage based on severity and acuity, and refer patients to appropriate resources such as rehab or the ER.
  • Psychosocial interventions, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and contingency management, are the mainstay of treatment for stimulant use disorder.
  • Off-label pharmacologic treatments for stimulant use disorder include mirtazapine, bupropion, injectable naltrexone, topiramate, and psychostimulants.
  • It is important for healthcare providers to be aware of state regulations and their own comfort level in prescribing off-label medications for stimulant use disorder.


For a full transcript and conversation chapters, visit the blog: https://www.realworldnp.com/blog/treating-substance-use-disorder 

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© 2024 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Treating Opiate Use Disorder in Primary Care - Interview with Shelby Pope, NP25 Jul 202401:11:13


In this episode, Liz Rohr interviews Shelby Pope, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, they discuss the stigma around addiction, the importance of supporting patients with opiate use disorder while exploring Shelby’s journey into addiction medicine and impacts of this field. 


This episode includes discussion of various treatment options for opiate use disorder, including naltrexone and buprenorphine, including the importance of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder, while emphasizing the effectiveness of methadone and buprenorphine in reducing the risk of overdose and mortality. 


Liz and Shelby explore the process of induction and the importance of assessing withdrawal symptoms, ongoing monitoring and support for patients on MAT, including addressing cravings and harm reduction strategies. 


Key takeaways: 


  • Exploring the stigma around addiction, and the importance of supporting patients with opiate use disorder.
  • Addiction medicine is a beautiful and impactful field that can be accessible in primary care.
  • Naltrexone and buprenorphine are two treatment options for opiate use disorder.
  • Open conversations with patients and providing support and resources are crucial in primary care.
  • Methadone may be necessary for some patients with extreme cases of opiate use disorder. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) with methadone and buprenorphine is highly effective in reducing the risk of overdose and mortality in individuals with opioid use disorder.
  • Assessing withdrawal symptoms is crucial before starting buprenorphine to avoid precipitated withdrawal.
  • Ongoing monitoring and support are essential for patients on MAT, including addressing cravings and providing harm reduction strategies.
  • Tapering off medication should be done slowly and on an individualized basis, considering the patient's stability and goals.
  • Individualized care and empathetic communication are key in building trust and supporting patients on their recovery journey.


For a full transcript and conversation chapters, visit the blog: https://www.realworldnp.com/blog/opiate-use-disorder. 

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© 2024 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see https://realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bridging the Gap: Primary Care and Specialty Care Courses for Nurse Practitioners - Need Your Input!11 Jul 202400:11:23


We’re expanding our course catalog at Real World NP! This time, we’re collaborating with specialists, making courses tailored for primary care providers. Our goal is to provide comprehensive and practical courses for nurse practitioners and PAs, and to bridge the gap between primary care and specialty care. We want NPs to have the knowledge and resources to provide the best care within their scope of practice.


Share your input about what courses you want to see first! Head over to realworldnp.com/blog/courses-nurse-practitioner to share your thoughts


For a full transcript, check out the blog.


Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:12 Expanding the Course Catalog

03:34 Addressing the Gap: Primary Care and Specialty Care

05:45 Creating Comprehensive and Practical Courses

08:06 Community Input and Feedback


-----------------------

Don't forget to grab your free Ultimate Resource Guide for the New NP at https://www.realworldnp.com/guide


Sign up for the Lab Interpretation Crash Course: https://www.realworldnp.com/labs 


Grab your copy of the Digital NP Binder: https://www.realworldnp.com/binder


------------------------

Come follow along for even more tips and inspiration:


Instagram: https://instagram.com/realworldnp

Facebook: https://facebook.com/realworldnp


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Please note: This episode is intended only for medical providers and students learning to be medical providers. 

While anyone is welcome to view and listen, for legal and safety reasons, we are unable to diagnose, treat, or answer medical questions for individuals through this channel. We always refer individuals back to their primary care providers for medical care.

If you’re a medical provider or student and have specific patient cases you have questions about, I cannot answer those here but would love to help you inside our mentorship program! Join the waitlist at https://www.realworldnp.com/mentoring.

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© 2024 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Real World NP: Redefining Continuing Education for Nurse Practitioners27 Jun 202400:55:25

Welcome back to Season 3 of the Real World NP Podcast!


This episode is an interview with yours truly - I want to share a bit of a “reset” with what’s going on with Real World NP, where we started, where we’re going, and how you can be involved. I also want to share a bit that has changed behind the scenes, and how we’re incorporating more of a social justice and equity lens— not just inside the clinical teaching, but overall practices inside the company. 


One of the core reasons behind the company is not just to make the transition to practice for nurse practitioners easier, but also make an impact on the healthcare and education industries. We want to do continuing education for nurse practitioners differently than the status quo.


Some real talk: I feel like I repeat myself a lot, and part of me is like “they know this already.” They know that it’s important to be a whole human, and that they get to do that in their personal and work lives. That they’re not just a machine in the cog of healthcare, and things are starting to change. That they deserve to be supported and held in safe spaces while they learn this extremely important and difficult field of medicine. It’s old news.


But I’m reminded of the number of times I’ve counseled patients on their medications - at LENGTH and REPEATEDLY - and they still need to hear it again.

Like the time my patient with new-onset afib needing anticoagulation still ended up in the ER for overdosing his meds. Or after three visits for my patient with diabetes, they still did not understand their diagnosis and what it meant.


I truly, truly believe that even when things feel daunting and overwhelming, whether it’s the clinic day ahead, the severity of illness of the patient in front of you, or the state of the healthcare industry, individual actions make a big difference.


I’d love for you to be a part of the movement of change to make healthcare and education better — listen in to this episode to get a sense of where we’re going and what you can expect from us going forward. It’s also a helpful introduction to the backstory behind the company if you’re new here!


More from Louiza “Weeze” Doran:

https://www.instagram.com/accordingtoweeze/?hl=en

https://louizadoran.com/

https://louizadoran.com/podcast

-----------------------

Don't forget to grab your free Ultimate Resource Guide for the New NP at https://www.realworldnp.com/guide


Sign up for the Lab Interpretation Crash Course: https://www.realworldnp.com/labs 


Grab your copy of the Digital NP Binder: https://www.realworldnp.com/binder


For the full transcript, and for this conversation’s topic chapters, see the blog.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Giving Yourself Permission, Season 2 Recap & What's Next27 Mar 202400:10:56

On this week’s episode I want to give you some permission if you feel like you need it—


To be a whole human with needs, feelings, desires, and cares. To do what feels authentically right to you.


We’re plopped into a healthcare system that is specifically NOT set up for humans to be humans, and is designed for us to operate like machines.


And it takes a LOT of courage to stay true to ourselves and what we want and need when we’re also trying to stay safe— financially, emotionally, physically.


Sometimes it’s helpful to see and hear from others doing the same so we can see what’s possible for us.


Here’s this week’s episode, sharing a bit of permission to give yourself, some highlights from this season’s podcast if you want to peruse previous topics, and upcoming plans for what’s next.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Investing In Your Future: Financial Planning for NPs05 Mar 202400:56:39

In this week's episode, I'm thrilled to share my conversation with Lauryn Williams, an extraordinary individual who has not only achieved greatness on the athletic track but also in the realm of financial planning. Lauryn's story is a powerful example of how discipline, dedication, and a willingness to learn can lead to success in multiple arenas of life. Her transition from an Olympic athlete to a certified financial planner is not just inspiring; it's a lesson in reinventing oneself and finding purpose beyond one's initial calling.


Lauryn opens up about her journey, revealing the pivotal moments that led her from winning medals to advising clients on financial health. We explore the mindset shifts required to excel in two vastly different fields and the common threads of discipline and perseverance that link them. Lauryn's candidness about the challenges and triumphs along her path offers invaluable lessons on adapting to life's changes and seizing new opportunities with courage and enthusiasm.


One of the most enlightening parts of our discussion revolves around Lauryn's passion for financial literacy. She shares her vision of a world where financial knowledge is accessible to everyone, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their money. Through her work, Lauryn is breaking down the complex world of finance into understandable and actionable advice, showing that it's possible to achieve financial wellness with the right guidance and mindset.


Lauryn provides listeners with practical strategies for managing their finances, from budgeting and saving to investing and planning for the future. Her advice is for anyone looking to improve their financial situation and build a more secure future.


Lauryn also discusses how her experiences have fueled her desire to give back and make a difference in the lives of others. Whether it's through her financial planning practice or her involvement in community initiatives, Lauryn is committed to contributing to a better, more financially savvy world.


Don't miss this incredible episode filled with lessons sure to support you on your financial journey.




In today’s episode, we talk about:


  • Lauryn's seamless transition from an Olympic athlete to a certified financial planner, and the motivations behind her career change.
  • How Lauryn is making financial planning accessible and empowering for everyone, regardless of their background.
  • Practical financial advice from Lauryn, including strategies for debt management, savings, and investment.
  • Understanding the value and impact a certified financial planner can have on your financial health and long-term goals.
  • Lauryn's personal and professional growth, and how she uses her platform to advocate for financial literacy and freedom.



Read the blog post here.

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© 2023 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Empowering Equity: Transforming Clinical Spaces with Community Care20 Feb 202400:48:27

Welcome to our latest podcast episode, where I had the immense pleasure of sitting down with the incredible Dr. Omolara Uwemedimo. 


Today's conversation is a testament to the power of resilience, innovation, and community in healthcare.


Dr. Omolara shares her journey from being a pediatrician to founding two revolutionary organizations aimed at transforming healthcare for under-resourced communities. Through Strong Children Wellness and Melanin and Medicine, she is not just treating patients but also addressing systemic barriers to access and sustainability in healthcare for BIPOC communities.


Our dialogue covers the challenges of funding in primary care, the importance of community partnerships, and the innovative business models that can empower healthcare professionals to serve better and more sustainably. Dr. Omolara's story is one of overcoming personal and professional hurdles, including a diagnosis that led her to reevaluate her approach to work and life, underscoring the importance of self-care in our mission to care for others.


For those inspired by Dr. Omolara's vision, she shares valuable advice on building interprofessional collaborations and leveraging community resources to create impactful healthcare solutions. Whether you're a student, a new grad, or a seasoned clinician, there's much to learn from Dr. Omolara's approach to making healthcare more equitable and accessible.


Connect with Dr. Omolara on LinkedIn for more insights and resources on building a more inclusive healthcare system. To learn more about her work, visit Melanin and Medicine and Strong Children Wellness. Let's continue to support each other in our journeys, fostering a healthcare community that's not just about treating illness but building a healthier, more just world.


Let's keep the conversation going and work together towards a brighter, healthier future for all communities.



In today’s episode, we talk about:


  • Dr. Omolara's transition from pediatrician to healthcare revolutionary.
  • Strategies for building interprofessional collaborations and leveraging community resources.
  • Efforts through her organizations to overcome healthcare access and sustainability challenges.
  • The crucial role of community collaborations and innovative business models in enhancing healthcare delivery.
  • Dr. Omolara's personal challenges highlighting the importance of self-care for healthcare professionals.


Read the blog post here._______________________________

© 2023 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Navigating The Drama Triangle As An NP06 Feb 202401:00:30

In this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Brooke Nielsen to explore a topic that is both fascinating and incredibly relevant to our work as healthcare professionals—the Drama Triangle. We've all seen it, whether we recognized it at the time or not. Those moments when interactions with colleagues or patients suddenly feel like a scene straight out of a play, with clear roles of victim, rescuer, and persecutor taking shape.


Brooke and I explored how these roles influence our work environment, especially for nurse practitioners. We shared stories, insights, and, most importantly, practical strategies for stepping out of these roles. The goal? To foster a more supportive, healthy work environment where we can all thrive, professionally and personally.


Understanding the Drama Triangle isn't just academic; it's about making real changes in how we interact every day. From recognizing when we're slipping into one of these roles to setting boundaries that protect our well-being and the quality of care we provide, this conversation is a stepping stone to more effective, fulfilling professional relationships.


Tune in to find out how you can start recognizing and changing these dynamics in your own clinical setting. It's an episode packed with insights for nurse practitioners and anyone keen on creating a healthier workplace culture.


In today’s episode, we talk about:


  • Understanding the Drama Triangle
  • Impact of the Drama Triangle in clinical settings
  • Strategies for recognizing and changing dysfunctional dynamics
  • The importance of boundary management for healthcare professionals


Read the blog post here.

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© 2023 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Caretaker Fatigue: What Is The Root Cause?23 Jan 202400:57:58

In this episode, I explore a crucial topic shaping healthcare today - caretaker fatigue. Join me as I delve into an enlightening conversation with my dear friend and Executive Coach, Catherine Wood. 


Cat shares invaluable insights about balancing work-life commitments and the importance of recognizing and meeting our personal needs for sustainable career longevity. 


Even if you feel like you've heard all there is about burnout, I promise this conversation brings fresh perspectives and tangible steps you can incorporate in your daily life. 


In today’s episode, we talk about:


  • How to caretake without losing yourself
  • The sneaky patterns in caretaking
  • How to stop putting yourself last
  • Setting boundaries that take care of YOU


If you liked this video, also check out:



Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

00:43 Discussing Caretaker Fatigue

01:18 Meet Catherine Wood

02:32 The Impact of the Pandemic on Caregivers

03:41 Caregiving and Burnout

05:16 Burnout Prevention

05:56 Caretaking and Codependency

06:53 Caretaking in Relationships

07:56 Meeting Your Own Needs

13:41 Overcoming Caretaking Habits

28:45 Understanding Your Needs

29:41 The Impact of Ignoring Your Needs

31:21 The Journey of Self-Discovery

34:36 Boundaries

34:54 Building Self-Trust

38:26 Nonviolent Communication

44:50 The Challenge of Change in Relationships

54:29 Transparency in Communication


Read the blog post here.

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© 2023 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are NP Careers Changing?09 Jan 202400:37:14

Are you a nurse practitioner feeling lost, uncertain, or unfulfilled in your career? This raw, honest, and needed conversation with Amanda Guarniere, the founder of Resume RX, explores:


  • The career challenges NPs are facing
  • Alternative career paths many NPs are considering
  • Changing power dynamics between employers and employees
  • How to think about career changes and honor YOURSELF in the process


We dive into the growing concerns among NPs regarding stagnant wages, shifting power dynamics between employers and employees, and the desire for personal fulfillment beyond traditional clinical settings.


We chat about the rise of entrepreneurship, side hustles, and non-clinical roles that allow NPs to leverage their expertise and pursue their passions.


We encourage NPs to challenge societal expectations and professional scripts that may stop them from doing what they love.


If you liked this post, also check out:



Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction

02:45 - Practical Strategies on Navigating NP Clinical and Job Search

03:55 - Are Nurse Practitioners Okay?

05:25 - Dissatisfaction and Desperation Among NPs

07:55 - How Can ResumeRX and Real World NP Support NPs

12:39 - Personal Reflection on the Impact of COVID

13:29 - Challenges Faced By Nurse Practitioners

17:04 - Evolving Career Landscape for NPs

25:29 - NP Burnout

28:36 - Self-Judgment and Criticism 

34:35 - What’s The Next Best Thing


Read the blog post here.

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© 2023 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Roundtable: How Are We Doing After Covid?12 Dec 202301:00:30

In this video, I sit down with two incredible NP colleagues and friends, Kara and Heather, for a candid conversation about the rollercoaster ride of being a nurse practitioner.


We delved deep into our shared experiences, tackling everything from the highs of fulfilling our calling to the challenges that can sometimes leave our compassionate hearts feeling a bit weary. Burnout, boundary setting, and the beautiful power of teamwork — it's all on the table.


💖 Join us for a heart-to-heart chat that's raw, relatable, and peppered with a good dose of humor. Because, let's face it, sometimes laughter is the best medicine.


🌈 Whether you're a seasoned NP or just starting your journey, this episode is a virtual hug, a reminder that you're not alone.


👂 Tune in, share your thoughts, and let's keep the conversation alive. In this community, your story matters, and we’re in this together.


Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction

07:32 - Kara’s NP Background

11:10 - Residency Program

13:41 - Heather’s NP Background

19:00 - What is it like after Covid?

25:02 - New Grads Challenge

28:51 - Real-World Experience In Covid

36:14 - Changes That Were Advocated

43:35 - Funny NP Stories

56:51 - Parting Thoughts to New Grads NPs


Read the blog post here.

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© 2023 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cardiology In Primary Care With Midge Bowers05 Dec 202300:55:07

I am thrilled to introduce you to Midge Bowers.


Not only is Midge a Clinical Professor and Director of the cardiovascular specialty at Duke University School of Nursing, she practices as a nurse practitioner in a Heart Failure Access Clinic.


She’s an expert in cardiology, a seasoned healthcare educator, and shares so much incredible knowledge in this jam-packed episode.


In this episode, we covered:


  • The importance of looking beyond creatinine levels
  • How to focus on practical aspects of echos
  • Demystifying anticoagulation choices
  • Practical tips on adjusting Warfarin dosages
  • Reversal agents and safety measures


This barely scratches the surface of the wealth of information Midge provides.


  • 0:00 - 3:35 - Introduction and Overview
  • 3:36 - 8:39 - Importance of Monitoring Creatinine and GFR
  • 8:40 - 15:06 - Impact of New Medications on Kidney Function
  • 15:07 - 20:30 - Understanding Echo Results: Akinesia, Hypokinesia, and EF
  • 20:31 - 25:01 - Interpreting Trends in Echo Reports
  • 25:02 - 31:17 - Anticoagulation Choices: Warfarin vs. DOACs
  • 31:18 - 38:15 - Adjusting Warfarin Dosages and INR Monitoring
  • 38:16 - 42:42 - Assessing Bleeding Risks with CHADS-VASc and HAS-BLED
  • 42:43 - 46:03 - Reversal Agents and Safety in Anticoagulation
  • 46:04 - 53:41 - Managing DOACs in Different Clinical Scenarios


Read the full blog here.

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Please note: This episode is intended only for medical providers and students learning to be medical providers.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Navigating NP Burnout with Cait Donovan30 Nov 202301:00:03

This week, I have an episode for you that I think is even MORE important than the clinical knowledge that I share — navigating NP burnout.


Meet Cait Donovan, an International Keynote Speaker, host of “Fried – The Burnout Podcast,” author of the book "The Bouncebackability Factor", and an acupuncturist with a master’s degree in Chinese medicine. Her creative burnout recovery solutions have been featured on podcasts and online magazines such as “Forbes”, “NPR,” and “The New York Post.”


We chat not only about recognizing NP burnout but also about understanding, navigating, and bouncing back stronger than ever.


In this episode, we cover:


  • How Burnout Impacts Your Brain: Unveiling the neurological aspects of burnout and how it affects our cognitive functions.
  • The Surprising Factors Causing Burnout: Exploring the unexpected factors that contribute to burnout, both for seasoned professionals and new grads.
  • The Role of Trauma in Burnout: Recognizing the impact of trauma on burnout and understanding how it influences us.
  • The Burnout Recovery Process: Providing actionable steps for recovery and discussing how embracing self-compassion can transform your experience as an NP.


I hope this episode can provide a little comfort, knowing that you're not alone, and maybe a little permission to take the best care possible of YOU, not just your patients.


Resources mentioned in this episode:



If you liked this post, also check out:



Read the blog here

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© 2023 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What Is Your Philosophy Of Practice As A Nurse Practitioner?22 Nov 202300:12:55

Whether you're a recent NP graduate or someone transitioning between specialties, this video will help ease that overwhelming feeling and help you discover your unique approach to practice.


If you liked this post, also check out:



Timestamps:

  • 00:00 - Introduction
  • 01:22 - Purpose of the Episode
  • 02:35 - Understanding Philosophies of Practice
  • 04:23 - Evolution of Practice
  • 08:21 - Navigating the Transition


Read the blog post here.

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© 2023 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.




Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

New Nurse Practitioner Pillars of Primary Care14 Nov 202300:11:23

If you’re a new NP grad making your way into practice, I think you’ll find today’s video super helpful.


(And even if you’re not a new grad, it’s still worth the watch — both to understand what we’ve been through and to help us mentor students and new grads ourselves.)


In this episode, I talk about the challenges new grads face — from sneaky imposter syndrome to the overwhelming clinical knowledge demands.


It can feel like an absolute rollercoaster from one moment to the next.


It wasn’t until I started to mentor new grads myself that I understood what was so challenging and why.


It seems obvious in one way — learning medicine is endless. But there are some other sneaky things that make it SO much more intense.


If we can orient ourselves to what is actually happening, we can:


  • Make a plan to get support
  • Help our NP mentees and students adjust better, and
  • Understand the role transition challenge on a high level.


I truly believe we can all contribute to making this profession better and it starts on an individual then interpersonal level.


Which is why in this video, I talk about the three pillars of practice that can help you:


  • Tackle the fear of the unknown and build a foundation for continuous learning in real-world practice.
  • Navigate the system beyond diagnosing and treating illnesses.
  • Embrace the unexpected leadership role and the skills you need.


And remember, you're not alone - we see you and we're cheering you on!


Timestamps:


00:00 - Introduction

00:46 - Pillars of Nurse Practitioner

01:30 - First Pillar: Clinical Knowledge

02:30 - Second Pillar: Navigating the HealthCare System

04:40 - Third Pillar: Role Transition & Stepping Into Leadership

06:31 - card link: Challenges of Primary Care playlist

08:39 - Recap

10:38 - RWNP Mentorship (card link: mentorship waitlist)

_______________________________

© 2023 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The New Season Is Here09 Nov 202300:05:37

Welcome to our brand new podcast season! We're absolutely pumped to bring you a fresh wave of episodes that will be a game-changer for Nurse Practitioners (NPs) on their journey. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, we've got you covered.


In this season, we're introducing some exciting changes behind the scenes to make your listening experience even more rewarding. Expect enhanced content, engaging interviews with healthcare experts, and an interactive community that fosters connection and learning.


Timestamps:

00:00 - Intro

00:47 - Seasons

01:42 - Life of A Nurse Practitioner

02:58 - Specialist Interviews


Read the blog post here.

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© 2022 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

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Season Pause10 May 202300:01:58

Hello there, we are actually going to be taking a season break on the Real World NP Podcast. But don’t worry, we’re coming back!


We’re taking some time to do some regrouping, work on some things behind the scenes, and get ready for a whole new season of episodes for you. If you want to be involved with us, in the meantime, myself and the Real World NP team, I definitely recommend that you head over to the Real World NP email list. And you can join over at realworldnp.com/guide.


What we’re going to be doing because we don’t want to leave you hanging, and we love to give support and connect with you. We’re actually going to be sending out weekly emails of a Tip Of The Week instead of a podcast episode. If you’d like to join us for that, definitely head over to that site, realworldnp.com/guide.


And then also know that we’re still around for all of our products and services – the Lab Interpretation Crash Course, the Diabetes, Hypertension and CKD Course Management course, as well as Mentorship Programme. We are doing all of those things while the podcast is on its little season pause. If you want to check out any of those things, head over to realworldnp.com/shop and you can find all of those products. And then when it comes to the mentorship, you can join our waitlist, if you’d like to and if you’re interested in that and if you’d like to be a part of that – it’s realworldnp.com/mentoring. And so as we form new group, small group cohorts, we can definitely let you know about that as well as any one-on-one mentorship opportunities that we have.


Thank you so much for being a Real World NP podcast listener. I so appreciate you, the team so appreciates you, and I’m definitely looking forward to releasing some new episodes in a couple of weeks.

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© 2022 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.



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Legal Questions from Nurse Practitioners Answered25 Apr 202301:14:33

It’s hard not to worry about malpractice when you’re taking on new levels of responsibility as a new nurse practitioner.


Irnise Williams is not only a health law lawyer, she now focuses on the education and legal work to help prevent malpractice cases in the first place.


AAAAAND she’s a nurse herself! Still taking care of patients as a covid float nurse while also running her legal practice, she’s truly a unicorn.


She and I sat down and discussed the questions nurse practitioners and students had in the Real World NP community!


(PS. if you want the chance to submit questions for future interviews, join the email list at https://www.realworldnp.com/guide)


We covered so many things, including:

  • Most common reasons for malpractice cases
  • How to document appropriately
  • Should I have my own malpractice insurance?
  • Scope of NP Practice and more


Note, some of the audio came out uneven, so apologies about that. 


Read the full blog post here.


Download the FREE Ultimate Resource Guide for NP

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© 2022 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

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New Nurse Practitioner: When You Don't Know the Answers18 Apr 202300:07:00

One of the biggest fears I hear from new nurse practitioners and students is not knowing the answers when you're in the room with a patient.


In this video, I'll tell you the many reasons why this is actually okay (and why we should probably even celebrate it), and the simple strategies I use to handle it.


Leave me a comment below, what is a strategy that you use to handle these situations? Or, what is one of the major insights you took away from this video?


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Timestamps:


00:00 - Intro

00:42 - Reason 1

01:57 - Reason 2

03:20 - Reason 3

03:56 - Simple Strategy


Read the full blog post here.

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© 2022 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

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Ortho in Primary Care: Hacks for New Nurse Practitioners11 Apr 202300:12:48

If you're feeling like you don't know enough, and still have to see patients with ortho complaints (especially in telemedicine) -- here are the "hacks" of primary care ortho management.


You'll learn:


  • The main 4 steps to managing almost all ortho complaints in primary care
  • The top red flags overarching most ortho complaints
  • How to triage ortho complaints
  • When to send to ortho (and what to do first)


If you liked this post, also check out:



Read the full blog post here.

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© 2022 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

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Diagnosing and Managing Shoulder Pain in Primary Care04 Apr 202300:14:06

As a new nurse practitioner, I used to find shoulder pain pretty overwhelming. While you can *see* all the musculoskeletal structures and how they work together, there’s a lot more going on beneath the surface and dealing with orthopedics can require a real depth of knowledge. 


But I’m going to help give you a jump start on that! In this week’s video, I’m taking a high-level view of diagnosing and managing shoulder pain for new nurse practitioners. We’ll talk about:


  • Which history questions are most valuable to ask
  • Why traumatic vs. non-traumatic presentation differentiates treatment
  • The four steps to treatment used to treat *most* musculoskeletal issues in primary care (and why you might to reconsider them)
  • And one clinical pearl that blew my mind when I learned it!


Want to follow up on the resources I mentioned? Find them 👇


Read the full blog post here.

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© 2022 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.



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Atopic Dermatitis Treatment for New NPs | Pearls of Practice28 Mar 202300:19:45

Atopic dermatitis may not be the most glamorous topic in medicine, but you've got an enormous opportunity to change lives for the better in primary care.


It can feel frustrating for both the patients and providers when they keep coming back without getting any better.


I got to chat with a pediatric dermatologist and added a TON of clinical pearls to my arsenal of "real world" NP knowledge-- which I'm sharing with you in this week's video.


You'll learn:


  • What treatment ACTUALLY works, especially when they've told you they've "tried everything"
  • What skincare to recommend, which steroids, and what unconventional treatments can help keep flares at bay
  • Answers to popular questions these days: who actually need food allergy testing, to bathe or not to bathe, and more.


Download the cheat sheet here: https://www.realworldnp.com/pl/237660


Read the full blog post here.

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© 2022 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

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Managing COPD Exacerbation In Primary Care21 Mar 202300:22:44

Walking into an examination room and seeing a patient hunched over with labored breathing, audible wheezing, and an oxygen tank can be intimidating for any nurse practitioner.


And if you’re a nurse practitioner in primary care, it is essential to understand the management of COPD exacerbations to provide the best care you can to patients.


COPD exacerbation can look scary, but the management is fairly straightforward. So is the choice of whether or not to prescribe antibiotics (and which ones!)


This week, we’re sharing a case study about the management of COPD exacerbation in primary care. We’ll cover:


  • How to know who should go to the ER
  • When to give antibiotics (and which one, for how long)
  • The general management you should be doing in primary care as a PCP for someone with COPD


PLUS! You can also download the COPD Management Cheat Sheet that you can keep at your desk to help you in your clinical practice! 


Read the full blog post here.


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© 2022 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.


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Contraceptive Counseling For Primary Care NPs14 Mar 202300:09:14

Some people feel really uncomfortable talking about anything that has to do with reproductive health. Some of these people are patients, and some of them are healthcare professionals. Are you one of them?


If you thought that you might be off the hook because you work in primary care - you’re not. It’s a part of taking care of the entire patient. When you know and understand your patients’ goals for family planning a lot of other pieces of the clinical picture can become more clear.


Having a plan for the conversation is a good way to get more comfortable. If you get stuck just trying to think of where to start, there are tips in this week’s video that will help with the conversation. Imagine having just three questions to ask that not only guide the whole conversation, but that make the whole thing easier and less awkward for both you and the patient.  


In this video, we will cover easy-to-use strategies for contraceptive counseling in primary care. Including:


  • How to actually talk with primary care patients about contraceptives
  • Questions to ask the patient about contraceptive methods
  • How to match contraceptive options with the patient’s preferences
  • How having this conversation actually empowers patients


You don’t have to know the perfect thing to say when it comes to contraceptive counseling. But having a roadmap for the conversation will make a big difference for you and your patients. 


💫 A presentation I reference in the video is here: http://www.ctcfp.org/wp-content/uploads/APPROVED_Cason_Patient-Centered-Reproductive-Goals-and-Contraceptive-Counseling-pc-edits.pdf 


💫 And here are two other websites to help with patient reference: 

Reproductive access project: https://www.reproductiveaccess.org/resource/bc-fact-sheet/ 


💫 Bedsider.org: https://www.bedsider.org/


If you liked this post, also check out:



Read the full blog post here.

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© 2022 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

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How To Diagnose and Treat Abnormal Uterine Bleeding07 Mar 202300:12:17

It’s easy to think the worst when your patient mentions abnormal bleeding. It can mean so many things! Context is everything for the patient with abnormal uterine bleeding. Their age, their history, when it started, how long it lasted, their other diagnoses, even their other medications. These are all factors to consider in the patient with abnormal uterine bleeding, and will point you in a starting direction for your assessment and help you to build your differential.


Abnormal uterine bleeding often doesn’t mean the same thing for a young person in their twenties compared to someone who is past menopause. Do you know when people tend to start having periods (menarche)? Do you know when people tend to stop having periods (menopause)? Are you solid on what stopping having periods even means? Once you are solid on what is normal, you will get up to speed with abnormal things much faster. 


This week, we will cover the history questions to ask, the labs to order, and the imaging to order - and we will go even deeper. We’ll also talk about: 


  • Normal versus abnormal uterine bleeding
  • The anatomical factors that are key to your assessment
  • Potential causes of abnormal uterine bleeding
  • Other conditions that could cause or contribute to abnormal uterine bleeding
  • Pearls related to imaging (what to order, and how)


Like so many other concerns in healthcare, abnormal uterine bleeding can be scary, for patients as well as providers. Increasing your knowledge level will increase your comfort level. This will help you to build a strong differential, guide your patients, and address their concerns effectively. 


If you liked this post, also check out:



Read the full blog post here.

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© 2022 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

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Preventing Burnout As A New Nurse Practitioner: Interview with a Self-Care Strategist28 Feb 202300:31:10

Burnout is a hot topic in all aspects of healthcare. You might be thinking that it’s something that affects other people. You might think it’s something that impacts Nurse Practitioners who are more established in their careers. You might think it’s one of the last things that you need to think about as a new grad Nurse Practitioner. Until you start to experience symptoms of burnout. 


This week, we are talking with Diana from Catalyst for Self Care. She’s a well-seasoned Nurse Practitioner and a self-care strategist. What makes her an expert? Because she also has experienced burnout as a Nurse Practitioner. In this interview, we will cover:


  • Recognizing the signs and symptoms of burnout
  • The benefits of addressing burnout
  • Resources for preventing, assessing, and/or managing your burnout
  • The importance of regular reflection as a part of your practice as a Nurse Practitioner
  • Self-care and why it is so important


Learning about burnout sometimes happens the hard way, but it doesn’t have to. Watch this interview and get tips that you can start using right away. Understand what boundaries are, how to define yours, and why they are so vital to preventing and treating burnout. Self-care can mean a lot of things and is very unique to each of us. One thing is universal: we need to identify what works for us in a constructive way and make a plan to implement it for ourselves. When we care for ourselves, we can take the best care of our patients.  


If you know a colleague who is being stretched really thin, suggest this interview. 


If you liked this post, also check out:



Read the full blog here.


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© 2022 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

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Interview with a Pulmonologist14 Feb 202301:15:28

Have you ever wondered how best to manage your patients with pulmonary diagnoses? How much steroid use is too much for these patients? What happens after you refer your patients to pulmonology? How do we bridge the gap between primary care and pulmonology?

 

You gave us all the questions that you have for pulmonology – and we have answers. In this high yield interview, we will go over the answers to all of your questions and a lot more. We talk in depth with pulmonologist Dr. Daniel Seifer about your questions and more. From what to be thinking about when referring your patient to pulmonology to patient teaching techniques, we cover a lot in this interview. We talk about:


  • What your patient’s steroid use can tell you about the status of their chronic condition
  • Which tests to order for your patients, and what they mean for your patient
  • The right way to use inhalers, and common mistakes many patients make
  • Inhalers versus nebulizers – which is right for my patient?
  • What to be thinking about when you refer your patient to pulmonology


This interview is like a crash course in next-level care for your patients with a pulmonary diagnosis. If you have felt pulmonology is a growth area for you, this interview should help. If you want to have better strategies for patient teaching, this interview should help. Grab a notebook and get ready to learn a lot in a little time – and improve the care that you give to your pulmonology patients in primary care.


If you liked this post, also check out:



Read the full blog here.

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© 2022 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What To Do When You Have Bad News For Patients07 Feb 202300:20:09

Have you had to give a patient bad news? Did you feel prepared or scared? It is a necessary part of being a Nurse Practitioner, and it’s always going to be challenging, but it is better if you are prepared.

 

Not all bad news is created the same. In some cases, bad news is life changing information, but in other cases, it might be life limiting information. What we might consider serious news, like a new diagnosis of diabetes, might be catastrophic to the patient. Doing our best to understand and anticipate the patient’s perspective will benefit us both.


This week, we have a video that covers so much of the ins and outs of delivering bad news to your patient. We will talk about all of the things to consider when you have these conversations with your patient. We’ll cover:

 

  • How to prepare yourself
  • How to prepare the setting
  • How to have the actual conversation with the patient
  • The difference that trauma-informed care can make in having these difficult conversations with patients
  • A framework to guide the experience for you and the patient
  • Some specific language to use in these conversations


Getting and giving bad news is always tough; having a plan for the visit will make a big difference. Develop a plan for follow up and next steps with the patient before you give them the news will also make a big difference. Using as much empathy as you can, keep the patient at the center of the conversation and give space for any emotions that might show up.


If you liked this post, also check out:



Read the full blog here.

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Timestamps:


00:00 - Introduction

01:06 - Establish Framework (SPIKES)

02:12 - Setting Up

04:41 - Perception

05:56 - Invitation

07:48 - Knowledge

13:12 - Emotions and Empathy

13:41 - Strategy/Summary

15:32 - PEARL of Practice

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© 2022 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

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Nutritional Counseling for Diabetes Patients - What You Need to Know31 Jan 202300:54:22

Diabetes might be one of the most challenging chronic conditions to manage. It definitely requires a lot of partnership between provider and patient; you may find yourself spending more time with your diabetic patient than any other group of patients in your practice.


We talked with Nurse Practitioner and Registered Dietitian, Meghan Kavanaugh, about her work with diabetic patients. The interview was such a hit that we brought her back again to answer all of your questions about the nutritional aspects of helping your patients with diabetes. This week, we get answers to your questions, and more, including:


  • Where to start with nutritional counseling for diabetic patients
  • How motivational interviewing can help with nutrition counseling
  • Realistic strategies that patients can start using as soon as they leave your visit
  • The importance of understanding the patient’s lifestyle in order to optimize their diabetes management


Diabetes can be a tough condition to manage; nutrition is at the foundation of good management, but not all patients have the same experience when it comes to food. Patients that travel, patients that have limited access to certain foods, patients who have religious reasons for eating or not eating certain foods, patients who simply have preferences for certain foods over others – all of these things must be kept in mind as we create strategies to help our patients manage their diet and their diabetes.


If you liked this post, also check out:


👉 Ask A Diabetic Educator Nurse Practitioner

👉 Diabetes Case Study in Mentorship for Nurse Practitioners

👉 Chronic Care Conversations


Read the full blog here.

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© 2022 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

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Ask A Cardiology Nurse Practitioner24 Jan 202300:50:52

As a nurse practitioner in primary care, there are SO many things I’ve wanted to ask a cardiology nurse practitioner. This week, I had the lovely pleasure of interviewing Scott Pasquale, FNP and cardiology nurse practitioner, with questions from the RWNP community. 


In this episode, we covered:


  • What cardiologists wish primary care providers knew
  • A breakdown of common cardiovascular tests, how to explain them to patients, and how to choose between each one!
  • Review of how to order holter monitors the right way!
  • Common cardiovascular topics like atrial fibrillation, anticoagulation, and heart failure
  • Resources for nurse practitioners interested into going into cardiovascular medicine


If you liked this post, also check out:



Read the full blog post here


Timestamps:


00:00 - Introduction

03:13 - How Scott Pasquale choose Cardiology

04:14 - What NP Cardiologist Wish That Primary Care Providers Knew

06:51 - Ordering a Stress Test

11:57 - Other Names for Nuclear Scans

12:54 - Example Situation

18:57 - Type of Monitor to Use 

24:45 - EKG Learning Resources

29:14 - A-Fibrillation

31:14 - Anticoagulation

33:56 - Cold Calling

35:20 - Coronary Calcium Score/Scan

36:54 - Hypertension Management and Their Side Effects

39:55 - Resources/Recommendations for New Nurse Practitioners Getting into Cardiology

41:32 - Heart Failure

44:24 - Diuresis Management

48:20 - Time in Specialty Practice vs Primary Care


Download the FREE Ultimate Resource Guide for NP


© 2022 Real World NP. For educational and informational purposes only, see realworldnp.com/disclaimer for full details.

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Starting Insulin In Type 2 Diabetes17 Jan 202300:12:19

Feeling comfortable with treating type 2 diabetes can be overwhelming as a new grad Nurse Practitioner – and even as a seasoned Nurse Practitioner, especially if you don’t have a lot of diabetic patients in your practice. Some patients will be able to improve their diabetes and get their A1C down with lifestyle changes alone; others will need to add oral medication; others will need to add insulin to get optimal control of their diabetes.


When the time comes to have a conversation with your patient about starting insulin, they are likely to have lots of questions. If you want to be sure that you have answers, you have come to the right place. This week, we will walk through what you need to know when you have a patient who will be starting insulin for diabetes management. We’ll talk about:


✅ The other options for treating type 2 diabetes before you start insulin

✅ How much improvement you can expect with various approaches to diabetes treatment

✅ A framework for when to start insulin, and how to adjust the dose

✅ Managing hypoglycemia after starting insulin

✅ Why in-person visits are so beneficial for managing diabetes


Diabetes is a complex diagnosis for providers and patients. When you feel confused and overloaded with information, imagine how your patient feels. Being prepared for these conversations and clinical scenarios will help you to feel more confident, which will help you to be an even better resource for your patients.


✨ If you'd like support learning about how to manage Diabetes, including medication management, most recent guidelines, when to refer and examples of real-life patient cases, join us for the Managing Diabetes, Hypertension & CKD Review Course. Comes with 10.35 hours of continuing education, including 2.8 pharmacology hours, downloadable cheat sheets and lifetime access! Click here


Read the blog post here.

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Don't forget to grab your free Ultimate Resource Guide for the New NP


More Resources:

Lab Interpretation Crash Course

Digital NP Binder

Diabetes Medication Workshop

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