Sepsis and Shock: Hemodynamic Monitoring and Evidence-Based Intervention
Self-paced
2 CEUs
Full course description





Course Overview
This non-credit course prepares clinicians to confidently diagnose and manage sepsis and shock using evidence-based pharmacologic strategies and hemodynamic monitoring. Explore shock classifications, vasopressor selection and guideline-driven interventions. The course also covers the four main types of shock and foundational hemodynamic monitoring principles essential for guiding critical interventions.
Through real-world case studies and expert instruction from Creighton University faculty, you’ll gain the knowledge and confidence to make timely, evidence-based decisions in high-acuity settings.

Who Should Enroll
This non-credit course is ideal for registered pharmacists, PharmD graduates preparing for the workforce or residency, post-graduate residency candidates, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and other clinicians working in critical care setting or healthcare professionals seeking CE or skill refinement.

Course Instructor
Daniel E. Hilleman, PharmD
Director, Continuing Education
Professor, Creighton University
Nationally recognized expert in cardiovascular pharmacotherapy and Director of Continuing Education at Creighton University.
Mark A. Malesker, PharmD, FCCP, FCCP, FCCM, FASHP, BCPS
Professor, Creighton University
Veteran critical care educator and published researcher with deep expertise in ICU pharmacology and cardiopulmonary disorders.
Stacey Dull, PharmD, BCPS
Associate Professor, Creighton University
Experienced clinical pharmacy educator specializing in acute care and interprofessional practice.

What You’ll Learn
By completing this course, you will be able to:
- Differentiate between sepsis and septic shock using current clinical definitions and diagnostic criteria
- Explain the pathophysiology and key clinical indicators of sepsis, including organ dysfunction and inflammatory response markers
- Apply the Surviving Sepsis Campaign guidelines by identifying evidence-based pharmacologic recommendations for managing sepsis and septic shock
- Define the four primary types of shock—distributive, cardiogenic, hypovolemic, and obstructive—and recognize their clinical presentations
- Describe the foundational principles of hemodynamic monitoring and how they guide critical care interventions
- Compare the mechanisms, indications, and side effects of vasopressors and inotropes used in the management of shock

FAQ
What are the benefits of completing this course?
You’ll gain critical skills to accurately diagnose and manage sepsis and septic shock, apply evidence-based guidelines, and effectively use hemodynamic monitoring and vasoactive medications to improve patient outcomes.
This module is part of the Advanced Critical Care Therapeutics Certificate. It can be taken individually or stacked with other modules to earn the certificate.
How long does it take to complete?
Modules are self-paced and designed for flexible learning. Most take 1-2 hours to complete.
How is the course structured?
Each course includes video lectures, case-based learning, interactive assessments, and downloadable tools—designed for online, asynchronous learning.
Can I earn Continuing Education Credits?
Yes, you need to complete the entire program to receive credit. To receive credit, you will need to receive 75% on the quiz and case study at the end of the module. Upon successful completion of the module, and completion of the evaluation, a certificate will be available for you to print. You will have three attempts to complete each quiz.
Category 1 Creighton University Health Sciences Continuing Education designates this enduring material for a maximum of 2.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)TM. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
AAPA accepts AMA category 1 credit for the PRA from organizations accredited by ACCME.
Nursing CE Creighton University Health Sciences Continuing Education designates this activity for 2.0 contact hours for nurses. Nurses should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
Pharmacy Credit Creighton University Health Sciences Continuing Education (HSCE) is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) as a provider of continuing pharmacy education. This enduring material, Sepsis and Shock: Hemodynamic Monitoring and Evidence-Based Intervention is accredited for 2.0 hour(s) for completion of all CE sessions. Term of approval is from this date on September 15, 2025 until September 15, 2028. Sepsis and Shock: Hemodynamic Monitoring and Evidence-Based Intervention is a knowledge-based CE activity.
Accreditation Statement
In support of improving patient care, Creighton University Health Sciences Continuing Education (HSCE) is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.
Do you offer tuition assistance?
We do not offer tuition assistance for lifelong learning courses or certificates. However, Creighton alumni, faculty, staff and eligible partner employees, along with their spouses and dependents, may qualify for a 15% discount. One discount per offering. Other restrictions may apply. Learn more.