In this episode of My Favorite Learners, Dr. Chloe Gomez, DNP, CRNA sits down with Dr. Zafar Anwar, DNP, CRNA of NewYork-Presbyterian Weill Cornell for a high-yield, clinically grounded deep dive into vasopressors and hemodynamic management.

Together, they break down the pipes and the pump approach to understanding vasopressors - covering alpha, beta, and dopamine receptor physiology, selectivity, and how common agents like phenylephrine, ephedrine, norepinephrine, epinephrine, dopamine, dobutamine, milrinone, and vasopressin work at the molecular and organ-system level.

You’ll hear practical clinical pearls on:
• Choosing the right vasopressor for hypotension under spinal anesthesia
• Dopamine vs. dobutamine on boards and in the OR
• Why phenylephrine is now preferred for parturients
• How tachyphylaxis develops with ephedrine
• Managing cardiogenic shock, vasoplegia, and refractory hypotension
• Linking ACLS concepts (H’s & T’s, end-tidal CO₂) to anesthesia practice

Dr. Anwar also shares his path into academia, the power of mentorship, and advice for SRNAs and ICU nurses transitioning into anesthesia training.

This episode is perfect for SRNAs, CRNAs, anesthesia residents, ICU nurses, and anyone looking to strengthen their anesthesia pharmacology and vasopressor decision-making.

Keywords: CRNA, SRNA, vasopressors, anesthesia pharmacology, hemodynamics, phenylephrine vs ephedrine, dopamine vs dobutamine, vasopressin, vasoplegic syndrome, nurse anesthesia education, anesthesia podcast, My Favorite Learners.