Sepsis doesn’t just overwhelm the body, it can turn the lungs into ground zero for multi-organ dysfunction. In this episode, host Nicole Kupchik sits down with Dr. Julie Bastarache to explore how sepsis triggers Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) in a significant portion of critically ill patients. Dr. Bastarache explains why sepsis-induced ARDS isn’t a single entity but a spectrum of clinical, physiologic and biologic responses, each requiring its own approach. From the fundamentals of mechanical ventilation and why low tidal volume remains lifesaving, to the emerging, and surprising protective effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists, Dr. Bastarache’s reverse translational science bridges bedside observations back into the lab, to uncover new pathways and potential therapies. Plus, mental health counselor Kristan Seaford, shares her Sepsis Survival story of how pushing through the holiday season while caring for children sick with strep and the flu, led her to overlooking her own symptoms until she was fighting for her life.

Featured Guests:

Julie Bastarache, MD (@JulesBass6), is a physician scientist who specialized clinically in pulmonary and critical care medicine. She cares for patients in the intensive care unit who have a variety of life-threatening problems including pneumonia, sepsis (a severe infection that causes organs to shut down), respiratory failure, and shock. Despite advances in ICU care, many patients admitted to the ICU die and those that survive often have permanent problems like kidney failure, trouble thinking, weakness, and low oxygen levels. 

Key Takeaways:

Sepsis damages the lungs in 30-40% of patients making ARDS one of the most visible and deadly expressions of systemic inflammation.

ARDS is not a single disease, it's driven by a cascade of mechanisms ranging from mechanical, physiologic and biologic failure all at once.

High-flow nasal cannula is a powerful bridge therapy. It supports oxygenation and may prevent intubation, especially useful in COVID-19 related ARDS.

The best ventilator mode is the one clinicians understand well. Simplicity and mastery often outperform switching to complex modes, especially considering low tidal volume ventilation has been proven as a mortality-reducing ventilation strategy.

GLP-1 receptor agonists show promise in protecting organs during sepsis. Patients on these medications appear less likely to develop sepsis or organ injury, mouse models confirm improved survival

The future of sepsis and ARDS lies in precision medicine, moving away from broad labels towards targeted categories that enable more effective and individualized treatments.

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Produced by: Human Content and Sepsis Alliance

Sepsis is a life-threatening emergency that happens when your body’s response to an infection damages vital organs and, often, causes death. In other words, it’s your body’s overactive and toxic response to an infection. Like strokes or heart attacks, sepsis is a medical emergency that requires rapid diagnosis and treatment. Sepsis can lead to severe sepsis and septic shock. 

Sepsis Alliance is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.