Full Course Description

Integrating Lifestyle Medicine into Primary Care

Lifestyle medicine is a medical specialty that uses therapeutic lifestyle interventions as a primary modality to treat lifestyle related chronic conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. Our current healthcare system relies heavily on expensive pharmacologic treatment which can have unwanted side effects. By applying the six pillars of lifestyle medicine we can provide effective prevention and management for these conditions while lowering health care costs and avoiding unwanted side effects. These interventions also encourage patients to become an active participant in their care rather than a passive recipient.

Program Information

Objectives

  1. Appraise lifestyle medicine and determine which chronic conditions are most likely lifestyle related.
  2. Analyze the link between lifestyle and the development of lifestyle related chronic illnesses.
  3. Prescribe lifestyle medicine interventions to manage and prevent lifestyle related chronic diseases such as obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes, heart failure, and peripheral artery disease.

Outline

Understand the definition of Lifestyle Medicine. Gain knowledge in the prevalence of lifestyle-related conditions

  • What is Lifestyle Medicine?
  • Discuss the 6 pillars of lifestyle medicine
  • How is Lifestyle Medicine Different from other related disciplines?
Summarize the evidence base/review of literature for implementing lifestyle interventions to prevent and treat chronic disease. Address the following lifestyle related chronic diseases: Obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes, heart failure, peripheral artery disease, breast cancer, dementia, and a few others
  • What are Lifestyle Medicine Interventions?
  • Discuss prevention of developing lifestyle related chronic illnesses
  • Discuss evidence-based lifestyle interventions for various chronic illnesses
Cite strategies to integrate Lifestyle Medicine into daily practice and increase knowledge of lifestyle medicine resources
  • Discuss strategies to implement lifestyle medicine quickly into short visits
  • Limitations of the research and potential risks
  • Share free resources and access to tools to assist patients

Target Audience

  • Nurses
  • Nurse Practitioners
  • Physician Assistants
  • Physicians

Copyright : 05/11/2023

Managing Chronic Liver Disease in Primary Care

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is becoming more common in the United States and worldwide. There is a wide spectrum of disease progression when discussing NAFLD. The mainstay of treatment is lifestyle modification. There are ongoing research endeavors that are promising. This session will discuss important information for the primary care provider to offer the best care for the patient with NAFLD.

Abnormal liver function testing (LFTs) occurs often in the primary care setting. The purpose of this lecture is to establish an overview of the liver, what testing is done when determining liver injury and liver function, and how to appropriately triage and manage the patient with these abnormalities.

The purpose of this presentation will be to review the background and current management of the patient with cirrhosis. In the United States, cirrhosis is the 12th most common cause of death. Nurse practitioners are frequently the first providers to see patients in the acute care setting for admission and should be knowledgeable of cirrhosis and its complications. Nurse practitioners in the primary care setting are seeing patients with cirrhosis much more often, as more patients have chronic diseases which cause liver fibrosis and cirrhosis, such as Leannec cirrhosis or hepatitis C-related liver disease. Proper diagnosis and quick management are essential in both primary care and acute care settings to ensure patient improvement and a stable outcome.

Program Information

Objectives

  1. Differentiate between compensated and decompensated cirrhosis.
  2. Integrate two recommendations for the management of patients with NAFLD.
  3. Analyze two causes of an elevated liver profile.
  4. Determine two complications of chronic hepatitis C infection.

Outline

Abnormal LFTs

  • Reasons for Abnormal LFTs
  • Finding the “why”
  • When to Refer
Hepatitis C Update
  • Background
  • Diagnosis and Presentation
  • Treatment Options
Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
  • Background
  • Treatment Options
  • Consultations
Cirrhosis and Its Complications
  • Cirrhosis Complications
  • Portal Hypertension – GI bleeding and Ascites
  • Infections
  • Pulmonary issues
  • Renal issues
  • Palliative Care
  • Transplant

Target Audience

  • Nurses
  • Nurse Practitioners
  • Physician Assistants
  • Physicians

Copyright : 05/11/2023

Reflux & Heartburn with a Retroflex of Health and Wellness

Content provides a comprehensive assessment of patients presenting with foregut symptoms to improve their overall health and wellness. The education, assessment, diagnostics, and treatment options provide quality care to our patients along with satisfaction and confidence to providers dealing with these prominent diseases.

Program Information

Objectives

  1. Differentiate between and determine treatment approaches for reflux, Barrett’s esophagus, and esophageal motility disorders.
  2. Formulate a treatment plan for obesity/insulin resistance.
  3. Determine assessment/diagnostic(s) and treatment approaches for GERD/Obesity.
  4. Develop a lifelong disease management plan, including evolving treatment(s), surveillance and follow up for various GI disorders.

Outline

Reflux & Heartburn

  • Pathophysiology/effects
  • Typical vs Atypical
  • Patient referrals
Comprehensive Evaluation
  • EGD/pH/HRM
  • US/HIDA
  • Gastric Emptying
  • Esophagram
  • Planimetry
  • CT
Treatment options
  • Lifestyle/diet
  • Medication
  • Endoscopic
  • Surgical
Medical Weight Management
  • Assessment/consult
  • Diagnostics/Labs
  • Processed Food Addiction
  • Treatment route
Quality of life/success
  • Education
  • Options
  • Referral(s)
Patient/provider relationship for lifelong disease
  • Openness/trust
  • Continued knowledge and education
  • Accountability
  • Follow through

Target Audience

  • Nurses
  • Nurse Practitioners
  • Physician Assistants
  • Physicians

Copyright : 05/11/2023

Asthma Interventions

Everything you have known and practiced in the management of asthma for the past 50 years is no longer relevant! The Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) Guidelines have totally revamped the approach to asthma management and as a primary care provider, this is information you absolutely need to know. In this session, you will learn the current asthma treatment strategies with the goal of preventing deaths and exacerbations, with new guidelines for prescribing albuterol as a rescue inhaler. You will walk away with a new understanding of the best way to manage asthma in 2023 and beyond!

Program Information

Objectives

  1. Determine goals of asthma therapy as it relates to the GINA Strategy.
  2. Analyze why SABAs have been demoted as a rescue inhaler in the management of asthma.
  3. Determine the LABA-ICS of choice according to the GINA Strategy.
  4. Evaluate with monotherapy asthma inhaler class is contraindicated in the management of asthma.

Outline

What is GINA?

Discuss Anti-Asthmatic Drugs and how they are employed in the GINA strategy

  • SABAs
  • LABAs + ICS
  • LAAC
  • ICS
  • LTR
Discuss how the GINA Strategy has changed the use of albuterol in the management of asthma

Compare previous asthma treatment guidelines to the current GINA strategy

Discuss the US Boxed Warning associated with LABAs in the management of asthma

Discuss alternative asthma treatments/other controller options employed in the GINA Strategy
 

Target Audience

  • Nurses
  • Nurse Practitioners
  • Physician Assistants
  • Physicians
  • Respiratory Therapists

Copyright : 05/11/2023

Managing COPD in Primary Care

COPD is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States and around the world. Unfortunately, many clinicians do not have the time or resources to optimally manage this complex disease. This presentation will provide an overview of COPD pathophysiology as well as best practices for managing the condition, including pharmacological, non-pharmacological, and advanced interventions. The presentation is designed to give busy clinicians immediately actionable recommendations to enhance patient care for the COPD community.

Program Information

Objectives

  1. Determine potential cases of COPD and pre-COPD in their patient panels.
  2. Optimize medication management (including determining the best aerosol delivery device for each patient).
  3. Integrate more non-pharmacological interventions for patients including pulmonary rehabilitation and bronchoscopic lung volume reduction.

Outline

COPD Pathogenesis & Epidemiology

  • Screening tools
  • Phenotypes/etiotypes
  • Diagnostic options
Treatment Options
  • Pharmacological management
  • Tobacco cessation strategies
  • Pulmonary rehabilitation
  • Oxygen therapy
  • Surgical and bronchoscopic interventions
Additional Resources
  • GOLD
  • ATS/ERS
  • Peer support groups

Target Audience

  • Nurses
  • Nurse Practitioners
  • Physician Assistants
  • Physicians
  • Respiratory Therapists

Copyright : 05/12/2023

Can’t Miss Diagnoses in Primary Care

Diagnostic error is the leading cause of malpractice claims … with the highest proportion of pay-outs and even more alarming, more often resulting in death. Inaccurate diagnosis can be life threatening to patients and you need to know when a patient needs further intervention. Determining which diagnoses are time sensitive in primary care can often be challenging at the point of care. Dr. Diggins will review the top emergent conditions seen in primary care, including assessment, evaluation, and appropriate referral, so you don’t miss them!

Program Information

Objectives

  1. Determine the common and atypical clinical presentation for patients presenting with emergency conditions.
  2. Evaluate patients with focused questions and exam techniques.
  3. Differentiate emergent pulmonary and cardiac conditions from common medical conditions.
  4. Execute the appropriate transfer mode (personal vehicle vs. EMS) of patients with a ‘can’t miss’ condition.

Outline

Cardiovascular Assessment & Diagnosis

  • H & P Specific pointers
  • Key exam findings in normal/abnormal exam
  • Differential Diagnosis: MI
Cerebrovascular Assessment & Diagnosis
  • H & P specific pointers
  • Key exam findings in normal/abnormal exam
  • Differential Diagnosis: CVA/TIA
Pulmonary Assessment & Diagnosis
  • H & P specifics for pulmonary exam
  • Key findings in normal exam/abnormal
  • Differential Diagnosis of interest: PE
Timely Evidence based Differential Diagnosis
  • Point of care Clinical Decision Support tools
  • Limitations of CDSS and other collaborative decisions tools to effectively diagnose/timely
  • Evidence based process of collaboration in primary care urgencies/diagnosis

Target Audience

  • Nurses
  • Nurse Practitioners
  • Physician Assistants
  • Physicians

Copyright : 05/12/2023

Primary Care Dermatology for the Non Dermatology Provider

Program Information

Objectives

  1. Evaluate signs and symptoms of commonly encountered dermatological presentations in the primary care setting.
  2. Initiate evidence-based treatment for various dermatologic conditions.
  3. Assess the risk of differential diagnosis’ and when referral is needed.

Outline

Acne

Dermatitis

  • Atopic
  • Allergic
  • Contact
Benign Lesions
  • Cysts/Lipoma
  • Nevi
  • Seborrheic/Solar Keratosis
Pre Malignant Lesions
  • Actinic Keratosis
Malignant Lesions
  • Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
  • Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
  • Melanoma

Target Audience

  • Nurses
  • Nurse Practitioners
  • Physician Assistants
  • Physicians

Copyright : 05/12/2023

Immunizations in Primary Care

Immunizations are a public health success and one of the most cost effective preventive health options that can be offered to individuals. Research shows the healthcare provider is the patient’s most trusted source for vaccination decisions. As healthcare providers, knowledgeable and updated information is important to ensure you’re providing the best information for your patients regarding vaccine recommendations. This presentation will not only update on current recommendations but discuss resources and tools that you can utilize for patient education.

Program Information

Objectives

  1. Formulate how to find current Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommendations for immunizations for both adult and children/adolescents.
  2. Determine at least two new recommendations or screening that providers should ensure they’ve incorporated into their practice since 2022 began.
  3. Determine at least 2 methods vaccine safety is monitored in the United States.

Outline

Current adult and child/adolescent recommendations for immunization

  • Child Immunization Schedule for 2023
  • Adult Immunization Schedule Changes for 2023
  • Covid-19
  • On the horizons
Vaccine safety tools utilized in the United States
  • VAERS
  • VSD
  • COVID-19 CISS Project
Importance of recommending immunization to patients
  • Role of primary care providers
  • Patient Education/Dispelling myths
  • Record Keeping
  • Resources

Target Audience

  • Nurses
  • Nurse Practitioners
  • Physician Assistants
  • Physicians

Copyright : 05/12/2023

Screening for Mental Health Issues in Primary Care

Primary care clinicians are uniquely positioned to be able to assess, diagnosis, and treat mental health concerns. Mental health symptoms often first present in the primary care setting. Due to multiple barriers in access mental health specialized care, it often falls on the primary care clinician to provide intervention. 
 

Program Information

Objectives

  1. Administer and interpret at least one measurement tool utilized in assessing mental health concerns.
  2. Determine first line treatment options for anxiety and depressive disorders.
  3. Integate at least one non-pharmacologic intervention for managing mental health concerns.

Outline

  • Importance of mental health assessment and treatment in primary care
    • Prevalence 
    • Access to specialized treatment: often long waits or other barriers to engaging 
    • Mind-Body connection 
  • Levels of integration 
    • Coordinated: traditional referral to specialist outside of system
    • Co-located: referral to clinic within same practice
    • Integrated: mental health clinicians and primary care clinicians share treatment plan and work on same team
  • Measurement based care 
    • Pros and cons 
    • Considerations 
  • Depression
    • Diagnosing: symptom measure, clinical interview 
    • Psychopharmacologic intervention
    • Medical rule-outs
  • Anxiety 
    • Diagnosing: symptom measure, clinical interview 
    • Psychopharmacologic intervention
    • Medical rule-outs
  • Sleep
    • Diagnosing: symptom measure, clinical interview 
    • Psychopharmacologic intervention
    • Medical rule-outs
  • Other mood disorders and Psychotic disorders
    • Diagnosing: symptom measure, clinical interview 
    • Psychopharmacologic intervention
    • Medical rule-outs
  • ADHD 
    • Diagnosing: symptom measure, clinical interview 
    • Psychopharmacologic intervention
    • Medical rule-outs
  • Substance use 
    • Diagnosing: symptom measure, clinical interview 
    • Psychopharmacologic intervention
    • Medical rule-outs
  • Safety Assessment and Planning
    • CSSR
    • Safety planning 
  • Limitations or research and potential risks

Target Audience

  • Nurses
  • Nurse Practitioner
  • Physician Assistant
  • Physicians

Copyright : 03/14/2023

Management of Food Allergies in Primary Care

Food allergic reactions represent the single leading cause of anaphylaxis treated in American emergency departments.  This presentation will discuss the current statistics surrounding food allergy and will help clinicians understand their role in management of food allergy with their patients and families. Clinicians will learn about when it is appropriate to test for food allergy and the difference between food allergy and food intolerance. The presentation will also provide guidance surrounding prevention of food allergy.
 

Program Information

Objectives

  1. Determine current epidemiology patterns of food allergy.
  2. Analyze the risk factors involved with reactions to foods and proper diagnosis of food allergy.
  3. Formulate a management plan for treatment of food allergy.
  4. Appraise the recent evidence surrounding the introduction of foods and prevention of food allergy.
  5. Integrate the management of anxiety surrounding food allergy.

Outline

  • Food Allergy Statistics
    • Global population and state rates of food allergy 
    • Most allergenic foods
    • Anaphylaxis rates
    • Hospitalizations and medical procedure data
    • Health disparities
    • Quality of life impact
  • Diagnosing food allergy
    • Importance of history
    • IgE testing through skin and immunocap/RAST tests
    • IgE versus Non-IgE food allergy
  • Management of food allergy
    • Education
    • Treatment for anaphylaxis
    • School implications/forms
    • Clinician role in management of food allergy related anxiety
  • Prevention 
    • Early Introduction 
    • Eczema treatment
    • Breastfeeding

Target Audience

  • Nurses
  • Nurse Practitioner
  • Physician Assistant
  • Physicians

Copyright : 03/20/2023

Endocrine Challenges in Primary Care

Alterations in endocrine system function can be some of the most challenging issues primary care providers will manage in their practice. Many treatment options, both pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic, exist to treat and manage endocrine disorders. By relating the symptoms patients present with to the hormone regulation and feedback mechanisms providers will be able to individualize treatment options for their patients and currently manage or refer as indicated. 
 

Program Information

Objectives

  1. Differentiate between the symptomology, pathophysiology, identification, and management of endocrine disorders. 
  2. Determine the top medications used for each endocrine disorder presented and when to use it.
  3. Propose when to refer to specialist care.

Outline

  • Metabolic Syndromes and Diabetes
    • Gut Health, genetics, and hormone dysregulation as key pathophysiology components 
    • Prevention and Lifestyle Medicine
    • Treatments require a multifaceted approach and individualized plan
    • Watching and Waiting leads to missed opportunities and weight gain
    • Older adult considerations
  • Thyroid disorders
    • Gut health, Genetics, and hormone and immune system dysregulation lead to pathophysiologic changes 
    • Hyperthyroid and Hypothyroid symptoms and management
    • Risk factors to consider in primary care
    • Older adult recommendations
  • Osteoporosis
    • Quality is just as important as quantity and is not just a problem in older adults
    • Key risk factors to consider 
    • Primary care partnerships needed to help patients through treatment

Target Audience

  • Nurses
  • Nurse Practitioner
  • Physician Assistant
  • Physicians

Copyright : 04/10/2023

Prescribing for Pain Management: Best Practices for Opioid and Non-Opioid Medications

We are in the midst of an opioid crisis.  Treating chronic pain patients with opioid medications has become more complicated than ever before. The CDC’s published opioid guidelines have caused confusion regarding appropriate pain medication management.  

View Debra Dermady-Ray, RN-BC, MS, ANP-BC, to learn the very latest to safely prescribe pain medications – opioid and nonopioid - to treat chronic pain conditions, while following the CDC guidelines. Debra will help you to identify substance abuse red flags and interpret the Urine Drug Screen results to better prescribe to your patients.

Program Information

Objectives

  1. Analyze the steps of pain pharmacokinetics to select the best medication options. 
  2. Appraise a patient for at-risk substance use disorder signs. 
  3. Determine current opioid and adjunctive medications for the treatment of chronic pain.  
  4. Demonstrate understanding of the evolving CDC dosing guidelines. 
  5. Evaluate idiosyncrasies of Urine Drug Screen (UDS) results.

Outline

Pharmacokinetics to Guide Medication Decisions 

  • Absorption 
  • Volume distribution 
  • Metabolism 
  • Excretion/Elimination 
  • Aging considerations 

Principles of Analgesia 

  • Individual differences 
  • Assessment of pain relief 

Medications for Pain Management 

  • Non-opioid (adjunctive) medication management: NSAIDs, topical, SNRI’s, TCAs 
  • Side effects, adverse drug reactions & allergic reactions 
  • Dosing schedules 
  • Routes of administration 
  • Drug interactions 
  • Opioid rotation 
  • Opioids medications 
  • Opioid safety 
  • CDC guidelines 

Substance Use Disorder 

  • Addiction 
  • Physical dependence 
  • Tolerance 
  • Withdrawal 
  • Psuedoaddiction 

Standard of Care for Scheduled Pain Medications 

  • Red flag (drug seeking) 
  • Urine Drug Screen results 
  • Pain agreements 
  • The 10 steps to universal precautions in pain medicine 

Target Audience

  • Nurses
  • Nurse Practitioners
  • Pharmacists
  • Physicians
  • Physician Assistants

Copyright : 05/19/2022

Respiratory Pharmacology: Pharmacokinetics, Indications for Use and Patient Monitoring

Have you ever felt a lack of confidence when prescribing pulmonary medications?  You are not alone…   During this Summit session, Dr. Paul Langlois, APN, Ph.D., CCRN, CCNS, will take you through laboratory data, testing results and physical assessment findings to determine the appropriate respiratory diagnosis.  From there, you will take away the very latest updates to guide prescriptive decisions for the most common respiratory conditions you see in practice – asthma, COPD, COVID-19, TB, pulmonary hypertension, & pneumonia.  This jam-packed presentation is sure to leave you with new insights and evidence guidelines to support patients optimally.   

Program Information

Objectives

  1. Determine the best medications to use during acute asthma attack. 
  2. Manage the current recommended medications for the COVID-19 patient both out- and in-patient. 
  3. Formulate a medication regimen for a tuberculosis patient, both newly diagnosed and with drug-resistant tuberculosis. 
  4. Devise the treatment protocol for a patient with pulmonary hypertension. 
  5. Plan for optimal antibiotic selection for the patient with bacterial pneumonia. 

Outline

Asthma – Not Just Bronchodilators Anymore 

  • How is asthma diagnosed? 
  • Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) medication options 
  • Role of corticosteroids in asthma treatment 
  • Short acting beta agonists (SABA), long-acting beta agonists (LABA) - the difference and monitoring parameters 
  • Muscarinic antagonists, leukotriene modifiers and phosphodiesterase inhibitors - must know indications and contraindications  
  • Monoclonal antibodies for asthma relief 

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) – Long Term Pharmacologic Therapies 

  • COPD causes, symptoms and diagnostic tests 
  • Non-pharmacologic treatments 
  • SABA and LABA - when and how much 
  • Inhaled corticosteroids alone or in combination with bronchodilators 
  • Vaccines are a must – which ones and at what age to administer 

SARS-CoV2, COVID-19 

  • Laboratory parameters for SARS-CoV2 
  • How effective are all those COVID-19 vaccines 
  • Which antiviral medications are FDA approved and which are still in clinical trials? 
  • Dexamethasone is effective - but only in certain patient populations 

Tuberculosis (TB): Still Prevalent and Highly Contagious 

  • What is Mycobacterium tuberculosis and how is it detected? 
  • First line medications for drug susceptible TB (doses, how often & how long to take) 
  • Multi-drug resistant TB treatments 

Pulmonary Hypertension 

  • Diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension  
  • 12-lead ECG results in a patient with pulmonary hypertension 
  • Select between calcium channel blockers, phosphodiesterase inhibitors, endothelin receptor antagonizes and prostacyclin agonists 

Pneumonia 

  • Community acquired treatment options 
  • Antibiotic options based on patient history 
  • Hospital acquired pharmacology 
  • How to treat methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus

Target Audience

  • Nurses
  • Nurse Practitioners
  • Pharmacists
  • Physicians
  • Physician Assistants
  • Respiratory Therapists

Copyright : 05/19/2022

Botulinum Toxin Injections for Chronic Migraine

Do you want to add Botox injections to your practice? The PREEMPT protocol for botulinum injections is the only FDA-approved injection pattern for chronic migraine. In this session, Victoria demonstrates the special techniques for its administration. By the end of this session, you will be ready to practice the PREEMPT Protocol using Botulinum Toxin Injections for Chronic Migraine Prevention.

Program Information

Objectives

  1. Accurately identify and diagnose patients with chronic migraine using the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD).
  2. Using the Botox criteria, properly select a patient for Botox injections for chronic migraine and educate the patient on the adverse reactions seen in the clinical trials and PREEMPT protocol.
  3. Determine the steps to correctly reconstitute a 200-unit vial of Botox to 5 units/0.1cc using non-preserved normal saline and draw the product into 1ml syringes using a 21g, 2-inch needle and place a 30G, ½-inch needle on the 1ml syringe for injections.
  4. Using the PREEMPT protocol, choose the 31 injection sites for the Botox injections.

Outline

  • Migraine Headaches
    • Diagnosis
    • Aura – no Aura
    • International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD)
  • PREEMPT Protocol for Botulinum Toxins
    • Criteria
    • Documentation
    • Potential Adverse Effect
    • Insurance
  • Injection Process
    • Materials Needed
    • Injection Sites (31 total)
      • Corrugator Injections
      • Procerus Injections -Frontalis Injections -Temporalis Injections
      • Occipitalis Injections
      • Paraspinal Cervical Injections
      • Trapezius Injections
    • Dosage (5 units per 0.1 ml each injection site)
    • Frequency (every 12 weeks)
    • Reconstitution
    • Documentation

Target Audience

  • Nurses
  • Nurse Practitioners
  • Clinical Nurse Specialists
  • Physicians
  • Physician Assistants

Copyright : 01/09/2023

Wake Up the Surgeon! Acute Abdominal Pain Can't Miss Diagnoses

In this comprehensive overview of evaluating abdominal pain, using an approach that relies on the likelihood of disease, patient history, physical examination, laboratory tests, and imaging studies, you will hear the latest evidence. In this recorded session, Patrick will discuss situations that are emergent, may be life threatening, and may require surgical intervention, including acute appendicitis, ectopic pregnancy, abdominal aortic aneurysm and more.   The unique needs in geriatric patients with abdominal pain will also be covered.

Program Information

Objectives

  1. Conduct a history of pertinent historical details related to a chief complaint of abdominal pain leading to the diagnosis of an acute surgical abdomen.
  2. Determine pertinent physical exam findings related to an acute surgical abdomen.
  3. Formulate a plan for emergent and surgical management of several common potential life threatening surgical abdominal emergencies.
  4. Debate potential pitfalls in the management of acute abdominal pain in the geriatric population.

Outline

  • Patient History
    • Pertinent historical details related to a chief complaint of abdominal pain
    • Risk factors
    • Benign vs urgent
    • Visceral vs pareietal vs referred
  • Physical Exam
    • Findings leading to the diagnosis of an acute surgical abdomen
    • Benign vs urgent
  • Emergent and surgical management of several common potential life threatening surgical abdominal emergencies
    • Differential dx
    • Acute appendicitis
    • GI Perforation
    • Ectopic pregnancy
    • Small bowel obstructions
    • Mesenteric Ischemia
    • Volvulus
    • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
  • Potential pitfalls in the management of acute abdominal pain in the geriatric population

Target Audience

  • Nurses
  • Nurse Practitioners
  • Clinical Nurse Specialists
  • Physicians
  • Physician Assistants

Copyright : 09/14/2022

Mythbusters: Genetics and Pharmacogenomics

The Human Genome Project is now over 30 years old. Since the project’s launch, the implications of genomics science for healthcare have progressed steadily and it is difficult to keep up with the science. In this session, Nguyen Park will discuss common myths surrounding genetics and pharmacogenomics to teach the learner how this information can be used in daily practice. After a review of the current state and the science behind it, she will provide an overview of current uses of genetics and pharmacogenomics. Additional ethical issues, risks, and future directions will be considered.

Program Information

Objectives

  1. Analyze the current state of genetics & genomics advances and how this impacts today's clinical practice.
  2. Integrate the basics of genetics & genomics in order to better understand how pharmacogenomics and genetic testing affects patient care.
  3. Dissect implications of direct-to-consumer genetic/genomic testing.
  4. Evaluate ethical, legal, and social issues surrounding genetics & genomics testing and therapies.

Outline

  • Current state of Genetics & Genomics Advances
    • MythsBusters Flow Chart
    • PAs Work in Genetics/PA Genomic Competencies
    • Impact on Clinical Practice
  • Basics of genetics & genomics
    • Double Helix  (Rosalind Franklin)
    • Double  Stranded vs. Single Stranded  DNA/RNA
    • DNA Points to Remember
  • Pharmacogenomics
    • The Human Genome: Your DNA
    • Genetic testing affects patient care
      • Newborn Screening
      • Mitochrondrial
    • Direct-to-Consumer Genetic/Genomic Testing
  • Ethical, legal, and social issues surrounding genetics & genomics testing and therapies
    • Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA)
    • Gene Therapy
    • Genetic Mutation/Replacement

Target Audience

  • Nurses
  • Nurse Practitioners
  • Clinical Nurse Specialists
  • Physicians
  • Physician Assistants

Copyright : 01/06/2023

Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes: Office Based Orthopaedic Evaluation

In this session, Dennis will review and demonstrate the physical examination that is a central role in orthopedic diagnostics. He will review the necessary inspection, palpation, determining the range of motion of the joint, focused neurologic exam, and any special tests for specific injuries. An overview of radiographic studies, when to order and how to interpret will be included. Treatment approaches, including physical therapy, casting and/or splinting and referral to surgery will be covered.

Program Information

Objectives

  1. Conduct the key components of the physical examination for the knee, shoulder, elbow, hip and ankle.
  2. Determine when to perform radiographs and what views to order.
  3. Determine when to appropriately refer to the proper specialist.

Outline

  • The orthopedic exam
    • Shoulder - overview, conditions, anatomy, focused history questions
    • Elbow- overview, conditions, anatomy, focused history questions
    • Hip- overview, conditions, anatomy, focused history questions
    • Knee- overview, conditions, anatomy, focused history questions
    • Ankle- overview, conditions, anatomy, focused history questions
  • Radiographic Imaging
    • Indications
    • Which views to order
    • Interpretation
  • Treatment Approaches
    • Physical therapy
    • Immobilization/Casting
    • Surgery

Target Audience

  • Nurses
  • Nurse Practitioners
  • Clinical Nurse Specialists
  • Physicians
  • Physician Assistants

Copyright : 09/17/2022

Introduction to Hormone Replacement

This session will provide the basic “why” and “how to” for the use of bioidentical hormones. Comparison of the evidence supporting BHRT vs. conventional HRT therapies will be included. Discussion will include the goals of physiologic balanced hormones, the definition of physiologic, the importance of physiology dosing.  Jim will go over the pros and cons of the various types of testing for hormones, dosage forms used for BHRT, common hormone imbalances and issues seen in the various stages of o woman’s life, and the influences of abnormal cortisol levels, low thyroid function, and insulin resistance on the production and function of the hormones.

Program Information

Objectives

  1. Analyze the evidence supporting the different types of hormone replacement.
  2. Determine physiological and bioidentical as applied to hormone replacement.
  3. Formulate the goals of balanced bioidentical hormones.
  4. Defend the benefits of bioidentical hormone restoration beyond symptom management.
  5. Integrate patient assessment, appropriate testing and dosing options for hormone replacement.
  6. Propose the influences of cortisol, thyroid function, and insulin resistance on the functions of the sex steroids.

Outline

  • The goals of balanced physiologic hormones
    • Comparison of the potential benefits of BHRT and conventional HRT
    • Explanation of the effects of hormone imbalances and bioidentical hormones on cardiovascular risks, osteoporosis, cancer risk and quality of life
  • The functions and benefits of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone
    • Typical hormone imbalances
    • Related issues for the various stages of menstrual transition
    • The influences of cortisol, thyroid function and insulin resistance of the production and function of all hormones
  • Patient Needs Assessment
    • Health and Medical History
    • Lifestyle Factors
    • Methods of measurement of hormone levels
    • Symptom Evaluation
  • The effects of supraphysiologic dosing of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone
    • Estradiol
    • Progesterone
    • Dosage forms used for BHRT

Target Audience

  • Nurses
  • Nurse Practitioners
  • Clinical Nurse Specialists
  • Physicians
  • Physician Assistants

Copyright : 09/15/2022

Management of Type 2 Diabetes

In this session, Matthew will discuss the two main treatment approaches for managing Type 2 Diabetes in a primary care setting. Starting with an overview of the complications, he will focus on the treatment approaches, and A1C guidelines. He will discuss both necessary lifestyle changes, including diet, and improving exercise/activity level. Additionally, he will cover the oral medicines for initial treatment and when insulin may be needed. Long term goals for treatment will be discussed to decrease the chance for heart failure, neuropathy and other complications.

Program Information

Objectives

  1. Integrate the pathophysiology of T2D into the development of a management plan.
  2. Educate patients on any medications prescribed for control of T2D.
  3. Implement the ADA T2D clinical practice guidelines to improve outcomes for patients.

Outline

  • Complications
    • Macrovascular
    • Microvascular
    • Neuropathy complications
  • Treatment
    • A1C Goals
    • Medications (ADA Guidelines) --cost of medications
    • Patient teaching Reduction of ASCVD Risks
  • Goals
    • Reduced HF Risk
    • Reduce risk of Neuropathy
    • Increased quality of Life

Target Audience

  • Nurses
  • Nurse Practitioners
  • Clinical Nurse Specialists
  • Physicians
  • Physician Assistants

Copyright : 01/06/2023

"Life is Dangerous, Wear a Helmet!", Concussion Assessment and Management

Not sure if a patient is concussed?  Or when they can return to activity? Hear the latest updates on concussion assessment, evaluation, and treatment modalities in adults, adolescents, and children. This session will also add the latest research and future directions in research. The talk is augmented by many video presentations highlighting various topics discussed in the session.

Program Information

Objectives

  1. Integrate presentation and key recommendations for evaluation of concussion in clinical practice.
  2. Execute assessment tools for predicting patient outcomes.
  3. Formulate the essential elements in the treatment and monitoring recovery of concussion syndromes.
  4. Devise the psychological issues associated with concussion.
  5. Determine at risk populations and future directions in concussion research.

Outline

  • What is a Concussion? (You Tube)  
    • “Not for Faint of Heart” (You Tube ) 
    • “Hold on to Your Helmets!”  
    • Concussion Facts - A New Model-Symptom with Focused Therapies  
    • Improving Recovery
  • What Should We Know?
    • Mild TBI- refer to GCS
    • Head Trauma--- Blunt Trauma (Penetrating as well)
    • Why Did I See My Provider (somatic complaints)
  • Studies and Physical Exam Findings
    • Additional Testing
  • Adult Psych. Issues or Mental Health Disorders associated with concussion identified
    • Treating Mental Health Problems-CBT
    • Summarizing concussion management
    • Meds for Persistent Symptoms
    • Concussions affecting children and adolescents
    • TBI more common in children and adolescent
    • Anxiety, Depression, and sleep disturbances
    • What is CTE?
  • Concerns to See a Provider
  • Research Into CTE
  • So-Where are we going with Concussion Research and Management?
    • New Research
    • Summary
    • Future Directions

Target Audience

  • Nurses
  • Nurse Practitioners
  • Clinical Nurse Specialists
  • Physicians
  • Physician Assistants

Copyright : 09/17/2022

When It's More Than Just a Nightcap: Alcohol Use Disorder

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) remains a significant threat to health and wellness on a variety of levels. While data collection has been impacted, it does appear that the COVID pandemic has only worsened the rates of addiction to alcohol and other substances. This recorded session will review evidenced based screening protocols, decision tools for determining appropriate levels of care, and options for medication management. The discussion will also include how to incorporate services into busy office- and hospital-based practices with a focus on harm reduction.

Program Information

Objectives

  1. Analyze burden of alcohol use disorder and options for screening.
  2. Implement outpatient and inpatient detox protocols and determine what is the appropriate level of care.
  3. Formulate medications used for assisting with maintenance of sobriety.

Outline

  • Impact of alcohol use disorder
  • Definitions related to alcohol consumption
  • Risks of heavy drinking
  • Benefits of screening for AUD and how to perform
  • Detox – outpatient and inpatient protocols
  • Medications for maintaining sobriety
  • Other supports for AUD

Target Audience

  • Nurses
  • Nurse Practitioners
  • Clinical Nurse Specialists
  • Physicians
  • Physician Assistants

Copyright : 01/11/2023

JNC8 – Is it Still Great? Hypertension Treatment Guidelines

It’s been almost ten years since the JNC8 Guidelines for Hypertension were released, yet some clinicians are not up to date with their evidence-based guidelines for managing patients with hypertension.  If you are still prescribing a beta blocker or non-dihydropyridine CCB as a primary antihypertensive...or, if you are recommending an ACE inhibitor for a person of African descent as primary therapy for hypertension with no known kidney disease...then this presentation is for you!  Learn the top four initial recommendations for the treatment of hypertension and be prepared to confidently manage ALL of your patients with hypertension. 

Program Information

Objectives

  1. Determine what BP treatment should be initiated to improve outcomes according to JNC8.
  2. Determine the target BP for those undergoing treatment according to JNC8.
  3. Distinguish the classes of medications that are best to initiate for the treatment of HTN according to JNC8.

Outline

  • Joint National Committee Guidelines (JNC8)
    • Guideline Emphasis
    • Three Questions
    • Blood Pressure Goals
  • Why is JNC8 more lenient with BP control?
    • HDFP
    • HSP
    • ANBPindefinitely
    • VA Cooperative
  • Which Antihypertensive Classes are first line?
  • What are 2nd, 3rd and later line options for the treatment of HTN?
  • What do Trials Matter?
    • ALLHAT
    • AASK
  • What are exceptions to the JNC8 rule?
  • Describe follow-up with JNC8
  • Discuss Lifestyle changes
  • How does JNC8 compare to ACC/AHA 2017 and other guidelines?

Target Audience

  • Nurses
  • Nurse Practitioner
  • Physician Assistant
  • Physicians

Copyright : 03/02/2023