Talking All Things Cardiopulm

Early mobility is not just a catch phrase. It’s activity that can change the trajectory of a patient’s condition, hospital stay and potentially life. Join me as we welcome Dr. Jenna Hightower, PT, DPT, CCS, critical care physical therapist, and CVP Emerging Leader award recipient. In this episode we learn about Jenna’s physical therapy journey and her evolution from an exercise physiologist in outpatient cardiac rehab to PT residency to her love and passion for the ICU setting. Jenna learned early in her career that she could make tremendous impact in the ICU despite the level of complexity and ICU acquired weakness. Listen as we discuss the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, knowledge sharing, physiologic benefits of in-bed verticalization and early mobility progression. With a little persistence, hard work and communication change can be made. If you work in acute care, critical care, or are passionate about advancing ICU mobility, this episode is a must-listen! In this Episode: Resources: VitalGo Website VitalGo Instagram Tilt Talk Podcast: Apple. Spotify Youtube Kayli Dayton website Bio: Dr. Hightower earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Western Carolina University in 2017. Following this, she completed a Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Critical Care Residency through Mercer University at Piedmont Atlanta Hospital in 2018. Dr. Hightower has served as a Critical Care Physical Therapist in multi-specialty intensive care units at both Piedmont Atlanta Hospital and Mayo Clinic Florida. Her expertise lies in early mobility interventions within the ICU, particularly for patients on advanced mechanical circulatory support devices such as ECMO, IABP, Impella, and LVAD, as well as those on various forms of mechanical ventilation. She specializes in managing complex cases involving multiple end-organ failure or shock requiring invasive support, with a particular passion for pre- and post-heart and lung transplant care. Dr. Hightower has frequently integrated the use of the Total Lift Bed into her patients' care plans to enhance outcomes, despite the complexity and acuity of their conditions. Find me on: IG: @all_things_cardiopulm Threads: @all_things_cardiopulm Website: www.allthingscardiopulm.com Youtube: @allthingscardiopulm Linked-In: Rachele Burriesci Text at 913-308-4494

In this episode, Dr. Rachele Burriesci, PT, DPT, CCS, GCS sits down with Dr. Aaron Thrush, PT, DPT, MPH, CCS one of the lead authors behind the groundbreaking article “Development and Application of a Novel Framework for Mobility and Rehabilitation Under Support of Extracorporeal Life Support: The M-U-S-E-C-L-S Framework.” Together, they break down the first ever systems level roadmap designed to guide ICU teams in safely developing, implementing, and sustaining mobility programs for patients supported by ECMO and other mechanical circulatory devices. In this episode we discuss: Access article here Reach out to Aaron Thrush: ThrushA@ccad.ae Aaron Thrush is a board-certified cardiovascular and pulmonary clinical specialist (USA) with expertise in acute and critical care rehabilitation. He is the Education Specialist and Manager of Inpatient Rehabilitation and Therapy at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, where he previously led ICU physical therapy. Aaron has published research on lung transplantation, cardiac rehabilitation, stroke recovery, and functional outcome measures, and serves as Director of Research & Evidence-Based Practice and Clinical Content Expert for the Academy of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Physical Therapy (USA). An international speaker, he has presented across North America, Europe, and the Middle East. Find me on: IG: @all_things_cardiopulm Threads: @all_things_cardiopulm Website: www.allthingscardiopulm.com Youtube: @allthingscardiopulm Linked-In: Rachele Burriesci Text at 913-308-4494

Lucky for us, I was able to get more time with Aaron to discuss his life abroad. We had some time after discussing his newest publication to dig further into the regular day life in Abu Dhabi and into to another world of culture and cultural competency. Join us for an episode of common ground, laughs, food, and culture! Stay tuned next week for our publication breakdown of the MUSECLS framework! Find me on: IG: @all_things_cardiopulm Threads: @all_things_cardiopulm Website: www.allthingscardiopulm.com Youtube: @allthingscardiopulm Linked-In: Rachele Burriesci Text at 913-308-4494

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to treat patients internationally as a physical therapist? Does that opportunity feel just out of reach? Have you considered being more involved in the APTA or the Cardiovascular & Pulmonary (CVP) Academy or other leadership roles and just don’t know where to start? Join me in welcoming Dr. Aaron Thrush, who shares his inspiring journey from Philly to Abu Dhabi, from the neurologic population to a passion for CVP and from inpatient rehab to the ICU. Dr. Thrush takes us through his evolution from staff clinician to a respected leader in education, research and CVP physical therapy internationally. If you’re a physical therapist interested in international practice, career growth, CVP physical therapy, or expanding your professional impact, this conversation is packed with insight and lived experience you won’t want to miss. Find me on: IG: @all_things_cardiopulm Threads: @all_things_cardiopulm Website: www.allthingscardiopulm.com Youtube: @allthingscardiopulm Linked-In: Rachele Burriesci Text at 913-308-4494

Returning to the mic after a summer hiatus, Rachele recaps summer fun, garden woes, new collaborations and the joy of being in the room. Follow PrO2: Instagram Facebook Linked-In Website Newsletter Coupon Code for PrO2: ALLTHINGS15 (I do not receive commission just sharing a 15% off coupon code for a device that I believe in) Find me on: IG: @all_things_cardiopulm Threads: @all_things_cardiopulm Website: www.allthingscardiopulm.com Twitter: @allcardiopulm Linked-In: Rachele Burriesci Text at 913-308-4494

One word. Legacy. When one looks back on their career they might question: did I do enough, did I make a difference, did I leave a legacy? There is no question in mind that Ken is a person that has left his mark on the respiratory muscle training world, with his passion for understanding and innovation to create the devices he needed to accomplish his goals, he has left us not only with a superior device to assess and train the respiratory muscles, but also a protocol to effectively make a difference. 30 years of research, trial and error and digging into root causes, Ken is a major reason why we know IMT is an effective training modality across the spectrum: from weaning off vents, to patients with COPD, pneumoconiosis, SCI, to training world class athletes on the pitch. Not only did he help us understand how to assess and train respiratory muscles he also developed the device to do just that. Through multiple iterations and developments over 30 years we now have the PrO2 and the novel TIRE protocol. Join me in this episode as we hear Ken take us through his life’s work and learn from his vast knowledge and experience. Trial the PrO2 at the Academy of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Physical Therapy Fall Conference Sept 13 @ the exhibitor table! Get 20% off + no shipping. If you won’t be heading to the fall conference I have a coupon code just for you: Code: ALLTHINGS15 to save 15% on your PrO2 device! https://www.pro2health.com/products-list Find me on: IG: @all_things_cardiopulm Threads: @all_things_cardiopulm Website: www.allthingscardiopulm.com Twitter: @allcardiopulm Linked-In: Rachele Burriesci Text at 913-308-4494

Orthostatic hypotension (OH) is a common finding in the acute care setting. So, the question is, are there any hard and fast rules surrounding orthostatic hypotension? Are there cut-offs for activity / exercise? The quick answer is: it’s complicated and it depends. It requires knowledge, experience and clinical judgement every step of the way. Each case, each patient may have different symptoms and different levels of blood pressure dropping at different points in time. One clear point is assessing vital sign response to position changes and activity are paramount. Assessing your patient and recognizing subtle changes are equally important. And lastly, trusting your gut/intuition has a role as well. Join me as we discuss the definitions of OH, common symptoms and real case examples. 1:1 Virtual Cardiopulmonary Mentoring for Clinicians and Students All Things Cardiopulm LLC Facebook Page Join my newsletter Follow Pro2 Health on Instagram, Facebook & Linked-In Find me on: IG: @all_things_cardiopulm Threads: @all_things_cardiopulm Website: www.allthingscardiopulm.com Twitter: @allcardiopulm Linked-In: Rachele Burriesci Text at 913-308-4494

Happy 100th episode of Talking All Things Cardiopulm! My mission from day one was to bring Cardiopulm to the forefront of conversation, to give clinicians tools to use in their own practice and to help bridge the gap between research and the clinician. I created this podcast, because I felt like it needed to exist. I hope to continue going for as long as I can, to provide value and resources for you. If you want to support Talking All Things Cardiopulm, share an episode with a colleague, repost it on your favorite social media platform and/or write a great review! I appreciate you being here, for listening, for the support and for wanting to be a part of the Cardiopulm conversation! SIGN UP for the Innovative Treatments, Effortless Documentation Summit Event DatesAudienceWhat’s IncludedFree AccessPower Pass UpgradeJoin the All Things Cardiopulm Newsletter 1:1 Virtual Mentoring Find me on: IG: @all_things_cardiopulm Threads: @all_things_cardiopulm Website: www.allthingscardiopulm.com Twitter: @allcardiopulm Linked-In: Rachele Burriesci Text at 913-308-4494

Documentation continues to be one of the biggest frustrations across physical therapy. Despite the many changes in technology over the past 20 years, it can still feel time consuming and an overall arduous task. Shifting our perspective to an opportunity to showcase our clinical expertise and reasoning can be helpful. I like to look at documentation like an ESPN snapshot. Point out the highlights, the major turning points during the session, the gains, the losses and the why. Tell the story instead of clicking the box. Looking to enhance your documentation skills? Join me and other experts at the Innovative Treatments Effortless Documentation Summit hosted by the Note Ninjas on May 6-8. This free virtual event offers valuable treatment strategies along with the option to earn 20 contact hours for PTs and OTs. GET YOUR FREE TICKET Join the All Things Cardiopulm Newsletter Find me on: IG: @all_things_cardiopulm Threads: @all_things_cardiopulm Website: www.allthingscardiopulm.com Twitter: @allcardiopulm Linked-In: Rachele Burriesci Text at 913-308-4494

What makes an expert an expert? Is it their experience? Is it their knowledge? Is it their ability to teach/mentor? I can argue that it’s a compilation of all of the above. But do experts know everything? Is it even possible? I think the question is a set up for the most obvious answer. But maybe it’s not that obvious? A recent conversation spurred this discussion. Join me as tackle this question and take on a soap box or two I'm so excited to share this 3-day event hosted by my friends The Note Ninjas. The Innovative Treatments, Effortless Documentation Summit is coming May 6–8… and it's FREE! They’ve brought together a powerhouse lineup of experts to help you: ✅ Streamline documentation ✅ Discover fresh treatment ideas ✅ Avoid burnout ✅ And reignite your passion for clinical care Grab your free ticket here *Upgrade to the Clinician Power Pass to earn 20 contact hours (OT) or 20 PT CEUs, plus some awesome bonuses! 🎁Plus, there's a Facebook group with prizes, community, and more! Are you a part of the All Things Cardiopulm Newsletter? Sign-Up Here Find me on: IG: @all_things_cardiopulm Threads: @all_things_cardiopulm Website: www.allthingscardiopulm.com Twitter: @allcardiopulm Linked-In: Rachele Burriesci Text at 913-308-4494

I love a good comeback story, and typically cheer for the underdog, but the Measles can go ahead and stay in the past. As cases continue to rise, it’s time to take a look at overall pathophysiology and transmission of this very contagious virus. Join me as we discuss yet another virus taking the U.S. by storm. At the time of this recording the data available was as of 2/28/25 with 164 cases of measles, 1 death and 20% hospitalization. 1 week later, as of 3/7/25 cases have increased to 222 cases (94% unvaccinated), 2 deaths, and a 17% hospitalization rate. In this episode: Join my Newsletter CDC Measles surveillance Find me on: IG: @all_things_cardiopulm Threads: @all_things_cardiopulm Website: www.allthingscardiopulm.com Twitter: @allcardiopulm Linked-In: Rachele Burriesci Text at 913-308-4494

As the winter season comes to an end, we review 1 of the 4 major viruses that has been rampant this year. Though RSV is officially on the decline, it is still very present in our communities and hospitals. Join us as we discuss virus transmission and possible precautions, that you may say in your setting. Is it Droplet or is it Contact? That seems to be a question these days and there seems to be some unclear writing on the wall. So let’s break it down. In this episode: Join my email list, this ensures I can reach you if social media, podcasting or whatever changes and also keep you in the loop about any upcoming events. Interested in Jane? Jane, is an all-in-one practice management software with helpful features to power your practice. Head to jane.app/burriesci to book a personalized demo. Don't forget, you can use the code CARDIOPULM1MO at the time of sign-up for a 1-month grace period applied to your new account Find me on: IG: @all_things_cardiopulm Threads: @all_things_cardiopulm Website: www.allthingscardiopulm.com Twitter: @allcardiopulm Linked-In: Rachele Burriesci Text at 913-308-4494

Influenza cases and hospitalizations continue to be the leading respiratory disease nationwide this season. As of Jan 25, 2025, there have been 20 million illnesses, 250,000 hospitalizations, and 11,000 deaths (including 47 pediatric deaths). At the time of this recording Feb 6th, the CDC had not issued a weekly report in 2 weeks. I am happy to report that the CDC did release a weekly report on Feb 7th. Data continues to show an uptrend in Flu A. Join me as we discuss the different types of influenza, including the most prevalent strains this season. Understand the transmission, signs and symptoms, antiviral meds available, use of vaccines, and precautions to help keep you safe this season. In this episode: Join my email list, this ensures I can reach you if social media, podcasting or whatever changes and also keep you in the loop about any upcoming events. Are you in the KCMO area? I’m presenting on Respiratory Muscle Training. Register for this CEU opportunity!! Feb 26th 4:30pm. Register Here for KC Metro Therapy Hour: Interested in Jane? Jane, is an all-in-one practice management software with helpful features to power your practice. Head to jane.app/burriesci to book a personalized demo. Don't forget, you can use the code CARDIOPULM1MO at the time of sign-up for a 1-month grace period applied to your new account Find me on: IG: @all_things_cardiopulm Threads: @all_things_cardiopulm Website: www.allthingscardiopulm.com Twitter: @allcardiopulm Linked-In: Rachele Burriesci Text at 913-308-4494

We currently have a tuberculosis (TB) outbreak across the US and Kansas recently made national news in this regard. I’m here to break down the pathology of TB, and review the incidence to give some assurance, as well as, real concerns with this diagnosis. In this episode: Join my email list, this ensures I can reach you if social media, podcasting or whatever changes and also keep you in the loop about any upcoming events. Are you in the KCMO area? I’m presenting on Respiratory Muscle Training. Register for this CEU opportunity!! Feb 26th 4:30pm. Register Here for KC Metro Therapy Hour: Interested in Jane? Jane, is an all-in-one practice management software with helpful features to power your practice. Head to jane.app/burriesci to book a personalized demo. Don't forget, you can use the code CARDIOPULM1MO at the time of sign-up for a 1-month grace period applied to your new account Find me on: IG: @all_things_cardiopulm Threads: @all_things_cardiopulm Website: www.allthingscardiopulm.com Twitter: @allcardiopulm Linked-In: Rachele Burriesci Text at 913-308-4494

What might seem like a simple task in the winter months could lead to devastation without the right education. What do we need to consider to keep our patients with heart disease safe? The concern lies in the compounding effect. The effect of cold weather on the cardiopulmonary system, age, comorbidities, and aerobic capacity all play a role in determining safety. Join me as we dive into HR response, MET levels, predictive equations, and much more. Want to sign up for a mentoring call with Dr. Burriesci? Sign up here: https://www.allthingscardiopulm.com/mentoring Interested in Jane? Jane, is an all-in-one practice management software with helpful features to power your practice. Head to jane.app/burriesci to book a personalized demo. Don't forget, you can use the code CARDIOPULM1MO at the time of sign-up for a 1-month grace period applied to your new account Find me on: IG: @all_things_cardiopulm Threads: @all_things_cardiopulm Website: www.allthingscardiopulm.com Twitter: @allcardiopulm Linked-In: Rachele Burriesci Text at 913-308-4494

As the temperature drops across the country it is important to understand the impact the cold air will have on the cardiopulmonary system. Similar to pipes in a house, the cold affects both the pipes in the lungs and body in the same way, constriction. Although these changes occur in healthy individuals, they have more profound impact on those with heart and lung conditions. Join me as we discuss these changes, and some tips to help combat them. Want to sign up for a mentoring call with Dr. Burriesci? Sign up here: https://www.allthingscardiopulm.com/mentoring Interested in Jane? Jane, is an all-in-one practice management software with helpful features to power your practice. Head to jane.app/burriesci to book a personalized demo. Don't forget, you can use the code CARDIOPULM1MO at the time of sign-up for a 1-month grace period applied to your new account Find me on: IG: @all_things_cardiopulm Threads: @all_things_cardiopulm Website: www.allthingscardiopulm.com Twitter: @allcardiopulm Linked-In: Rachele Burriesci Text at 913-308-4494

Leaving the last day of 2024 with a little spice. Since most of this audience is PTs, PTAs and PT(A) students, I just want to remind us to value what we do. Stand up for your skill set, educate others on the benefits and continue to advocate! Want to sign up for a mentoring call with Dr. Burriesci? Sign up here: https://www.allthingscardiopulm.com/mentoring Interested in Jane? Jane, is an all-in-one practice management software with helpful features to power your practice. Head to jane.app/burriesci to book a personalized demo. Don't forget, you can use the code CARDIOPULM1MO at the time of sign-up for a 1-month grace period applied to your new account Find me on: IG: @all_things_cardiopulm Threads: @all_things_cardiopulm Website: www.allthingscardiopulm.com Twitter: @allcardiopulm Linked-In: Rachele Burriesci Text at 913-308-4494

Review of the literature brings us an article from Japan, evaluating diaphragm and chest wall excursion in four different positions in healthy adults. Dynamic MRI was utilized for excursion measurements throughout all four positions in quiet breathing. The initial hypothesis was disproved, allowing for deeper discussion of the effect of position on diaphragm movement. Join me today as we discuss the impact of patient positioning on the diaphragm and add another tool to the toolbox. Want to sign up for a mentoring call with Dr. Burriesci? Sign up here: https://www.allthingscardiopulm.com/mentoring Interested in Jane? Jane, is an all-in-one practice management software with helpful features to power your practice. Head to jane.app/burriesci to book a personalized demo. Don't forget, you can use the code CARDIOPULM1MO at the time of sign-up for a 1-month grace period applied to your new account Find me on: IG: @all_things_cardiopulm Threads: @all_things_cardiopulm Website: www.allthingscardiopulm.com Twitter: @allcardiopulm Linked-In: Rachele Burriesci Text at 913-308-4494

Have you seen the Nuss Bar Protocol? If not, this will prepare you if you ever do. This procedure is more common in the pediatric population but is a growing surgical option for patients in their 40th and 50th decade of life. Though considered a “minimally invasive technique,” it is quite an extensive procedure that navigates around multiple primary organs and has several considerations post-surgically. Join me as I discuss the evolution of the procedure and possible precautions you may need to consider. Want to sign up for a mentoring call with Dr. Burriesci? Sign up here: https://www.allthingscardiopulm.com/mentoring Interested in Jane? Jane, is an all-in-one practice management software with helpful features to power your practice. Head to jane.app/burriesci to book a personalized demo. Don't forget, you can use the code CARDIOPULM1MO at the time of sign-up for a 1-month grace period applied to your new account Find me on: IG: @all_things_cardiopulm Threads: @all_things_cardiopulm Website: www.allthingscardiopulm.com Twitter: @allcardiopulm Linked-In: Rachele Burriesci Text at 913-308-4494

Tracheal Deviation, to the Left, to the Right, which way does it go? This is probably one of the most common questions that I get from students studying for the NPTE. As it often does, the answer comes down to pressures. Tune into this episode to learn ipsilateral vs. contralateral movement of the trachea. Want to sign up for a mentoring call with Dr. Burriesci? Sign up here: https://www.allthingscardiopulm.com/mentoring Interested in Jane? Jane, is an all-in-one practice management software with helpful features to power your practice. Head to jane.app/burriesci to book a personalized demo. Don't forget, you can use the code CARDIOPULM1MO at the time of sign-up for a 1-month grace period applied to your new account Find me on: IG: @all_things_cardiopulm Threads: @all_things_cardiopulm Website: www.allthingscardiopulm.com Twitter: @allcardiopulm Linked-In: Rachele Burriesci Text at 913-308-4494