Full Course Description

Necessary Medication Adjustments in Patients with Kidney Failure

In the United States, chronic kidney disease is very common. Patients who have chronic kidney disease typically also have a number of other co-morbid conditions. As a result, these patients typically take more than one medication for the management of their chronic condition, which may include medications for high blood pressure, diabetes, and other conditions. Because of the decline in kidney function, the dosages of the medications used to treat these chronic conditions need to be carefully adjusted in order to prevent adverse drug reactions. In addition, it is important to note that patients who have advanced chronic kidney disease should not take certain medications. It is essential for primary care providers to have an understanding of the various stages of chronic kidney disease and the ability to adjust medications based on how well the kidneys are functioning. In addition to this, it is essential you correctly diagnose patients who have drug interactions and toxicities, particularly those patients whose kidney function is compromised.

Program Information

Objectives

Analyze progression of chronic kidney disease to end-stage kidney disease.
Manage medication related problems in kidney failure.
Determine risk factors for medication related problems in kidney failure.
Evaluate the adverse drug reactions of nephrotoxic medications.

Outline

Chronic kidney disease progression to end-stage kidney disease

Medication related problem in kidney failure

Blood pressure medication in kidney failure patients
Volume management in kidney failure patients
Diabetic medications in kidney failure patients
Anemia issues in kidney failure patients
Metabolic bone disease management in kidney failure patients
Pain management in kidney failure patients

Risk factors for medication related problems in patients with kidney failure

Case Study

Copyright : 03/22/2024

Diabetes Medication Therapy: Treatment Strategies in Line with the Most Recent Medical Advancements

Nicole Pezzino, PharmD, BCACP, CDCES, delivers a comprehensive update to manage diabetes through the lens of medication therapy. She will delve into an in-depth analysis of mediation-treatment options from the guidelines, highlighting the evolving landscape of treatment modalities. The comprehensive breakdown of commonly prescribed diabetes medications provides a detailed understanding of their indications, efficacy including A1c reduction, as well as newly identified benefits related to ASCVD, HF, and CKD. You will gain valuable insights into the latest safety considerations, including potential side effects, warnings, precautions, contraindications, and advanced monitoring protocols. Each medication will highlight important counseling points and patient tips to improve medication adherence, thereby enhancing patient outcomes. With the provision of clinical pearls, the presentation aims to equip healthcare professionals with the latest updates on diabetes medications, enabling you to make informed decisions and optimize treatment strategies in line with the most recent medical advancements.

Program Information

Objectives

Analyze the medication treatment options from the 2024 ADA Standards of Care for Diabetes.
Compare the treatment algorithm from the ADA and AACE/ACE guidelines for diabetes and individualize medications based on patient’s other comorbidities.
Examine the efficacy, safety and recommended counseling points for the drugs reviewed.
Summarize appropriate clinical pearls and lifestyle modifications for patients with diabetes.

Outline

Diabetes Medication Guideline Updates

Including 8 organ dysfunctions

Breakdown of Most Commonly Prescribed Diabetes Medications

Medication name ((Brand (Generic))
Indication – Including dosing and mechanism of action
Efficacy – A1c reduction, ASCVD/HF/CKD benefits
Safety – Side effects, warnings/precautions, contraindications, monitoring
Adherence – counseling points and patient tips
Clinical pearls/takeaways

Key Takeaways

Lifestyle modification
Call to action
Replication

Copyright : 03/21/2024

GOLD Guidelines: Formulate Effective Evidence-Based and Patient-Centered Treatment Regimens for COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a common, heterogenous lung condition characterized by chronic respiratory symptoms. Treatment often involves the use of one or more bronchodilators and inhaler devices. This comprehensive program will discuss diagnostic parameters, the initial treatment approach, and follow-up recommendations for ongoing management. An in-depth update of available medication classes and inhaler device types will also be provided to assist prescribers in confidently creating optimal evidence-based and patient-centered regimens.

Program Information

Objectives

Determine COPD Grade and Group according to the COPD GOLD Guidelines.
Identify therapeutic interventions recommended by the COPD GOLD Guidelines.
Compare and contrast drug classes used in COPD.
Recognize factors to consider when selecting inhaler devices and strategies to improve adherence to medication regimens.
Formulate effective evidence-based and patient-centered treatment regimens for COPD at initial evaluation and follow-up.

Outline

Diagnosis parameters

Symptoms, risk factors, and spirometry

COPD Grade and Group

Factors to assess after diagnosis: Severity of airflow limitation (GOLD Grade), symptoms (CAT score, mMRC), exacerbation history, multimorbidity
ABE Assessment Tool used to determine COPD Group

COPD Recommendations

Goals of therapy
Non-pharmacologic interventions
Medication classes: SABA, LABA, SAMA, LAMA, ICS + PDE4-I, macrolide antibiotics, OCS, and methylxanthines
Main types of inhaler devices (MDI, DPI, SMI)

Selecting Initial Treatment

Apply drug information to the ABE Assessment Tool for initial COPD evaluation
Practice the concepts with a knowledge check question

Adjusting Treatment

Approach to follow-up appointments using the 1) dyspnea and 2) exacerbation pathway in the GOLD Guidelines
Practice the concepts with a knowledge check question

Inhaled Delivery Considerations

Factors that affect choice of inhaler
Factors that affect adherence rates
Strategies to improve appropriate inhaler technique and adherence rates

Copyright : 03/22/2024

The Diagnosis and Treatment of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease, Nonalcoholic Steato Hepatitis, Cirrhosis, & Hepatoma

Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) affects 24% of the US population and only 5% are aware of their disease. That’s staggering when you consider how NAFLD can progress to Nonalcoholic Steato Hepatitis, Cirrhosis, and Hepatoma.

How can we diagnose and follow these patients in a primary care setting? What treatments are available? What is the data on these treatments?

Please join Peter Buch, MD as he discusses the important role that you will play in treating a tsunami of future liver disease due to NAFLD. This will be done in a practical, case based, very interactive and fun format. You’ll conclude with practical, useful clinical tools necessary to help you NAFLD patients.

Program Information

Objectives

Differentiate clinically between Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver (NAFL) and Nonalcoholic Steato Hepatitis (NASH).
Determine at risk individuals for NAFL and NASH.
Measure progression of disease from NAFL to NASH to cirrhosis.
Evaluate the appropriate treatment options.

Outline

Changing Terminology

Metabolic Dysfunction Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD)
Metabolic Dysfunction Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH)

Evaluation of a Patient with Mildly Elevated Liver Function Tests

Alcohol ingestion
Medication use
Herbs
Illicit drug use

Necessary Testing

CBC
HBsAg, HBcAb, HBsAb
HCV Ab and RNA confirmation
Fe/TIBC and Ferritin
Ultrasound of biliary tree and pancreas

Risk Factors for Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

Obesity
Type 2 diabetes
Dyslipidemia
High blood pressure
Metabolic syndrome
Dramatic increase in obesity and NAFLD expected by 2030

NAFLD Diagnosis

First - rule out other causes of liver disease
Especially consider alcohol
Medications
Food supplements
Hepatitis B, C

Techniques to Determine Alcohol Consumption

CAGE questions
AUDIT questions
Nonjudgmental zone

Usefulness of Labs to Determine Alcohol Consumption

AST:ALT ratio
GGTP
PEth test

Importance of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) in Primary Care

Risk of cirrhosis
NASH will become the major cause of hepatocellular cancer by 2025

Progression of NAFLD

From NAFLD to NASH to cirrhosis to hepatoma
Only a portion of patients progress to the next stage

Non-Invasive Tests to Check for Progression of Liver Disease

Fibrosis-4 Score (FIB-4)
What it is and how it is utilized?
What is the sensitivity and specificity?
Fibrosure/Fibrotest
ELF Test

Imaging in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Ultrasound
Fibroscan
Magnetic Resonance Elastography

When is a Liver Biopsy Still Needed to Make the Diagnosis

If there is more than one liver disease
If diagnosis is in doubt

Why Patients with NAFLD have a 10% Higher Mortality Rate

Cardiovascular disease
Cirrhosis/hepatoma is not the main cause of early morbidity/mortality

Standard Ways of Treating NAFLD

Exercise and weight loss
Hepatitis A and B vaccinations
Avoid alcohol
Coffee as a treatment modality?
Which diet is best?
Mediterranean
Ketogenic

How do we approach NAFLD in lean individuals?

Weight loss?
Exercise?

Medications used to treat NASH

Vitamin E
Studies to date
Risks/benefits/alternatives
Pioglitazone
Risks/benefits/alternatives
GLP-1 receptor agonists
Effective for weight loss
Not yet proven to reduce fibrosis in NASH
Improvement in cardiovascular mortality
Renal dysfunction

Bariatric Surgery for NASH

The data
When it is covered by 3rd party payers

Target Audience

Nurses
Physicians

Copyright : 12/08/2023

Psychopharmacology of ADHD: Deepening Clinician Insight into Medication Strategies

Stephanie Shafer, MSN, ANP-BC, PMHNP-BC, will deliver an advanced and updated review of stimulant (e.g., methylphenidate, amphetamines) and non-stimulant (e.g., atomoxetine, guanfacine) medications, with a particular focus on understanding the mechanisms of action, how they differ, and how one might synergistically compliment another. Learn how these medications affect the brain’s chemistry and function to alleviate ADHD symptoms, allowing for a deeper appreciation of their therapeutic potential. Central to the discussion will be the identification of presenting symptomatology and the evaluating of treatment outcomes. This focus will provide the knowledge and skills needed to adeptly navigate the evolving landscape of ADHD management.

By the talk’s conclusion, you will possess a robust understanding of ADHD’s neurobiological basis, as well as a comprehensive knowledge of the mechanisms by which available medications act. Deliver personalizing care for patients with ADHD to enhance their quality of life and daily functioning to the future.

Program Information

Objectives

Explain the key neurobiological factors involved in ADHD, including neurotransmitter systems, brain regions implicated, and how they contribute to the symptoms of the disorder.
Evaluate the pharmacological treatments available for ADHD, including stimulant medications (e.g., methylphenidate, amphetamines) and non-stimulant mediations (e.g., atomoxetine, guanfacine).
Differentiate ADHD from common differentials and tailor pharmacotherapy to individual patients.
Analyze the effectiveness of ADHD medications, while also considering potential side effects.

Outline

Neurobiology of ADHD

Neurotransmitter systems
Brain regions implicated
Contribution to symptoms

Examine Pharmacological Treatment Options

Stimulant medications
- Methylphenidate
- Amphetamines
Non-stimulant medications
- Atomoxetine
- Guanfacine, etc.
Mechanisms of action
Efficacy and effectiveness
Differences and combinations

Individualized Treatment Strategies

Differential diagnosis
- Distinguish ADHD from common differentials
- Consideration of comorbid psychiatric conditions
Tailoring pharmacotherapy
- Customize treatment plans based on individual patient profiles
- Adjust dosage and medication type as needed
Address overlapping symptomatology
- Strategies to manage symptoms that overlap with other disorders
- Coordinate care with other healthcare providers

Evaluate Treatment Outcomes & Side Effects

Effectiveness of Medications
- Reduction of ADHD symptoms
- Improvement in daily functioning
- Cognitive and emotional beliefs
Side Effects
- Common side effects of ADHD medications
- Strategies to minimize side effects

Copyright : 03/21/2024

Geriatric Psychopharmacology: Integrate Modern Pharmaceutical Knowledge into Practice

Join Steven Rubin, MD, to expand your existing knowledge about medications and their effects on older adults. This presentation will delve into current indications for commonly prescribed medications. There are risks and benefits to weigh when prescribing for our geriatric patients. Some medications will help, while others will hinder. The latest evidence-based pharmaceutical guidelines will be provided, including when to withhold and withdraw medications. Master the skills to integrate modern pharmaceutical knowledge with more traditional prescriptive methods to help patients achieve longevity with quality.

Program Information

Objectives

Recognize fundamental properties and categories of medications and their effects on older adults.
Apply bio-psycho-social medicine insights to the art of caregiving.
Integrate modern pharmaceutical knowledge with traditional prescriptive methods to help patients achieve longevity with quality.
Evaluate current guidelines for patients who may be using both prescription and non-prescription pharmaceutical agents.

Outline

Geriatric Presentations: Drugs, Dementia, Delirium, and other D’s

Disorders of mood: Depression, anxiety and bipolar
Dementia and mild cognitive impairment
Delusions, delirium and (sun)downers

Medications That Help, Medications That Hinder

Risks, benefits & alternatives
Duplicities, triplicities, and specialized care

The Latest Evidence-Based Geriatric Psychopharmacology Guidelines

Prescription considerations
Medications, malpractice, and you (4 more D’s)

Copyright : 03/22/2024

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

Determine goals of asthma therapy as it relates to the GINA Strategy.
Analyze why SABAs have been demoted as a rescue inhaler in the management of asthma.
Determine the LABA-ICS of choice according to the GINA Strategy.
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

Simple and Complex UTI Management: With E. coli Resistance Considerations

This session will dissect the evolving landscape for managing the spectrum of urinary tract infections in light of the increasing prevalence of E. coli resistance. Time will be spent exploring trends in E. coli resistance and the associated impact on antimicrobial selection particularly for complicated urinary tract infections, including pyelonephritis. The session will review recommendations for managing non-typical urinary pathogens, such as Candida. Attention will be given to non-antibiotic approaches to limit recurrent urinary tract infections, and guidance for managing asymptomatic bacteriuria.

Program Information

Objectives

Describe resistance trends of urinary pathogens in the community.
Formulate effective evidence-based treatment regimens for simple cystitis.
Integrate cephalosporins for successful management of complicated urinary tract infections.
Contact antibiotic and non-antibiotic approaches to prevent recurrent urinary tract infections.
Distinguish clinical scenarios requiring initiation of antimicrobials in response to bacteriuria.

Outline

Resistance

Evidence of changing resistance patterns to typical urinary antimicrobials for common urinary pathogens

Simple Cystitis

Nitrofurantoin evidence and pharmacology
Fosfomycin evidence and pharmacology

Complicated Cystitis

Etiological considerations/resistance in complicated cystitis
Cephalosporins
Fosfomycin

Pyelonephritis

Evaluate evidence for cephalosporin use in pyelonephritis
Drug overdosing and kinetics considerations

Atypical Urinary Pathogens

Approach to Candida
Approach to other pathogens

Recurrent UTI

Antibiotic prophylaxis
Methenamine prophylaxis
topical estrogen prophylaxis

Asymptomatic Bacteriuria

Definitions and Guideline Recommendations
Impact of antibiotic use

Copyright : 04/20/2023

Geriatric Pharmacology: Provide Optimal Pharmacotherapy

In the United States those over the age of 85 use a large amount of medical resources including medications. Sequelae from medication usage are common in the elderly and may result in hospitalizations and/or death. This Pharmacy lecture will provide you with the necessary tools to carefully monitor your patients medications and provide optimal pharmacotherapy. We will explore drug/drug and drug/disease scenarios. We will create a plan that will minimize the number of meds one needs to take and maximize the drug's side effect profile to our advantage. We will understand the importance of knowing the BEERS list. Upon completion of these pharmacy lectures you will feel more comfortable with medication management in older adults.

Program Information

Objectives

Define the terms polypharmacy and prescribing/medication cascade.
Describe the elements of a thorough medication history and reconciliation.
Identify prescription and over the counter risk of drug interactions.
Utilize the BEERS criteria to identify potentially inappropriate medications in the older adult.
Identify common medications that may affect current/future disease states.

Outline

What is polypharmacy?

Who is at risk?
What are the causes?
Prescribing Cascade

What is the BEERS list?

The American Geriatric Society Beers Criteria
What is on the Beers list?

What are drug interactions

Drug-drug interactions
Drug-food/beverage interactions

Drug-disease interactions

How do drug interactions occur?

A pharmacodynamic interaction

Why is it important to check for interaction?
Do drug interactions occur often?
Other factors causing drug interactions?
How do I check for drug interactions?
What should I do if I find a drug interaction?

Target Audience

Nurse Practitioners
Advance Practice Registered Nurses
Nurses
Physician Assistants
Occupational Therapists
Physical Therapists
Speech Language Pathologists
Nursing Home Administrators
Social Workers

Copyright : 09/29/2023

Vaccine-Preventable Diseases in the Older Adults

We know that certain diseases disproportionately impact older adults, resulting in higher rates of hospitalizations, complications, and deaths. In this session, we will discuss the most common vaccine-preventable diseases in older adults, including transmission, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. We will also discuss the most current vaccine recommendations and therapies to care for the older adult.

Program Information

Objectives

Name five of the most common vaccine-preventable diseases in the older adult.
Explain why vaccine-preventable diseases disproportionately impact older adults.
Name the top recommended vaccines for older adults and the diseases they can help to prevent.
List 4 strategies for improving vaccine rates in your older patients.

Outline

Burden of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases in the Older Adult

Why disease is worse in the older adult
Herd immunity
The immune response of the older adult
Economics of diseases

Influenza

Transmission
Impact of the disease in the older adult (Hospitalizations, deaths)
Diagnostics
Treatment
Vaccine recommendations

Covid-19

Still with us!
Why it is more severe in certain individuals (risk factors)
Transmission (what we have learned)
Diagnosis
Current treatments
Vaccine recommendations
What’s on the Horizon

RSV

Not just a childhood disease
Extent of the disease burden in older adults
Clinical symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment
Newest vaccines available

Pertussis

How are we doing in controlling this
Extent of the disease in older adults
Vaccine levels in the U.S.
Diagnosis
Treatment
Vaccine recommendations

Shingles

Extent of the disease in older adults
Clinical signs and symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment
Vaccine recommendations

Pneumococcal

What is it and how does it affect older adults
How is it transmitted
Complications associated with it
Clinical presentations
Diagnosis
Treatment
Vaccine recommendations

Hepatitis

Which types are a concern for older adults and which populations?
Transmission by type
Presentation of each type
Diagnosis
Treatment
Vaccine recommendations

Special populations

Vaccines for special populations (Diabetes, traveler, missing vaccines)

What’s on the Horizon

Combination vaccines
Universal flu
Diseases with vaccines under development

Wrapping Up

What can the NP/PA do to improve vaccine levels?
Why your recommendation matters
Having difficult conversations

Target Audience

Nurse Practitioners
Advance Practice Registered Nurses
Nurses
Physician Assistants
Occupational Therapists
Physical Therapists
Speech Language Pathologists
Nursing Home Administrators
Social Workers

Copyright : 09/29/2023

Pharmacology Update: End of Life Symptom Management

Alleviation of non-pain symptoms at end of life can often be challenging for patients, families, and practitioners. Managing these symptoms includes a thorough history and physical, understanding complex pathophysiology related to the symptoms, and prescribing appropriate medications that lead to an optimal quality of life. This session will review common symptoms, pharmacologic management, and relevant family education, while utilizing an interdisciplinary approach.

Program Information

Objectives

Discuss the components of treating dyspnea at end of life, to include history and physical, pathophysiology, pharmacologic management, family education, and inclusion of the interdisciplinary team.
Review pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic management of GI symptoms at end of life to include nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, and anorexia.
Identify specific strategies to treat anxiety and existential distress at end of life utilizing medications and the interdisciplinary team.
Evaluate the causes and treatment of fatigue when it presents with terminal illness.
Assess depression at end of life and pharmacologic management.

Outline

Alleviating Suffering at End of Life: Managing Non-Pain Symptoms

Dyspnea
GI symptoms - nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, anorexia
Anxiety/existential distress
Fatigue
Depression

Discover the latest best practices for each symptom:

History and physical
Pathophysiology
Pharmacologic management
Family education
Interdisciplinary approach
Case study
Sample assessment tools

Copyright : 10/19/2023

Advanced Psychopharmacology for Clinicians: Using Psychopharmacology to Understand and Treat Addiction Disorders

Common medications used to treat substance use disorders like naltrexone, naloxone and methadone can be easy to confuse… and hard to understand even for the most seasoned professionals.

And, that’s just the beginning… Drug testing, poly-substance abuse, and co-occurring mental health problems create more obstacles.

Not only does award-winning researcher, author and board-certified clinical psychiatric pharmacist, David Dadiomov, PharmD, BCPP bring clarity to the latest research on Substance Use Disorders (SUD) and the role antidepressants, antipsychotics, psychedelics can play…

He’ll walk you through specific, easy-to-apply strategies on high-risk prescription opioid use, therapeutic drug monitoring, substance intoxication and withdrawal, treatment-resistant psychiatric conditions and more.

Whether you work in direct patient care or allied health settings… you’ll be able to apply his interventions to immediately see improved outcomes for your patients.

You’ll get unique and practical case studies and a simplified, comprehensive guide for medication and non-medication interventions for nearly most SUDs so you can quickly respond to signs of substance-use related emergencies and know how SUDs impact various health conditions… even for your most vulnerable patient populations.

Whether you’re a prescriber or not, you’ll get you need to stay up to speed on a rapidly changing field to improve your treatment outcomes and protect your license!

Program Information

Objectives

Identify the principles of harm reduction
Recognize the signs and symptoms of substance intoxication and withdrawal
Understand the diagnosis of substance use disorders
Apply psychopharmacology to the treatment of addiction disorders (opioids, alcohol, stimulants, cannabis)

Outline

Psychopharmacology and Practical Application of Addiction Treatment

Psychopharmacology of addiction medications
Disparities in addiction treatment for patients
- Alcohol
- Opioids
- Stimulants
- Nicotine
Strategies to increase treatment access for patients
Regulatory considerations for addiction treatment
Supporting therapy recommendations
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Contingency management
Harm reduction practices
- Needle exchange
- Naloxone distribution
- Overdose education
- Fentanyl test strips

Treatment of Behavioral Health Disorders with Psychedelics

Harm reduction approach to illicit substance
- Principles of harm reduction
- Providing unbiased information to patients
- Providing important education on the risks of substance use in particular situations
- Providing important education on the benefits of substance use in particular situations
Therapeutic evidence of treatment of mental health disorders with psychedelics
- Psilocybin
  - Depression
  - Anxiety
  - Addiction
- DMT
- LSD
- MDMA
- Ketamine
Safety considerations for psychedelics
- Drug interactions impacting safety
  - Classic psychedelics and antidepressants (SSRIs and SNRIs)
    - Becker 2022
    - Introduction to serotonin toxicity
- Drug interactions that reduce efficacy
- Adverse effects of the different agents
Microdosing strategies/evidence
Psychedelics in conjunction with therapy
Integration strategies
- Pre-trip preparations
- Other therapy strategies

Target Audience

Addiction Counselors
Case Managers
Counselors
Marriage & Family Therapists
Nurses
Pharmacists
Psychologists
Social Workers
other Mental Health Professionals
other health care professionals
Physician Assistants
Nurse Practitioners

Copyright : 10/10/2022

NEW Drug Enforcement Administration Training Requirement for Prescribers: Complete 8 Hours on Opioid & Other Substance Use Disorders

This 8-hour training on opioid and other substance use disorders satisfies the new Drug Enforcement Administration training requirement for prescribers.

Opioid medications are very powerful pain killers, that carry a significant addiction risk. Our nation faces a crisis of overdose deaths from opioids, including heroin, illicit fentanyl, and prescription opioids. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 100,000 people died of drug overdoses in the United States during the 12-month period May 2020 to April 2021, reflecting a new record high. These deaths represent a mere fraction of the total number of Americans harmed by opioid misuse and addiction. Many Americans now suffer daily from a chronic medical illness called “opioid addiction” or opioid use disorder (OUD). Healthcare professionals, treatment providers, and policymakers have a responsibility to expand access to evidence-based, effective care for people with OUD.

Prescription opioids have been suggested to be an important gateway drug. In fact, opioids should not be first-line treatment for chronic pain, acute mild to moderate pain and dental pain. Health care providers should first consider nonopioid pain relievers or nonpharmacological options.

To mitigate this explosion of opioid-associated morbidity and mortality, Paul Langlois APN, PhD, CCRN, CCNS, presents this training requirement for all DEA-registered practitioners on the treatment and management of patients with opioid and substance use disorder. Treatment of OUD in specialty populations will be highlighted: pregnant women, adolescents, incarcerated personnel and patients with persistent cancer-related pain. Numerous case studies will be used throughout this presentation to solidify the learning experience. Discover conscientious ways to address patient’s pain, while lowering the risk for addiction!

Program Information

Objectives

Evaluate non-opioid medications to manage acute and chronic pain in both the in- and out-patient setting.
Differentiate between medication modalities to treat dental pain.
Appraise pharmacologic interventions to treat opioid use disorder.
Contrast the actions of opioid agonists, opioid antagonists and abuse deterrent medications in the treatment of opioid use disorder.
Identify the pharmacologic treatments for opioid use disorder in the following special populations: pregnant women, adolescents, incarcerated individuals, patients who have non-cancer moderate to severe pain.
Demonstrate the procedure to refer patients with substance abuse disorder to specialty health professionals.

Outline

Mechanism of Action of Opioids

Partial opioids
Full opioids

Criteria for Prescribing Opioids and Nonopioids

In-patient pain management
Out-patient pain management
Dental procedures
Pregnant woman

Treatment of Subacute and Chronic Pain

Non-pharmacologic modalities
Non-opioid pharmacology

Tapering Opioids

Clinical opioid withdrawal scale
Tapering methodology

State Prescription Drug Monitoring Program

Toxicology Testing

Urine
Serum
Point of care

Opioids and Benzodiazepines

Abuse Deterrent Medications

Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)

Diagnosis of OUD using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders

Medications

Methadone
Buprenorphine
Naltrexone
Lofexidine

OUD in pregnancy
OUD in adolescents
OUD in incarcerated imdividuals
OUD in patients with persistent non-cancer related pain
Mechanism for referral to substance abuse specialist

Opioid Overdose and Cardiac Arrest

Target Audience

Nurses
Physicians

Anti-Obesity Medications (AOMs) for Short and Long-Term Pharmacotherapy Treatment

Obesity is a complex and multifaceted condition that affects individuals across all age groups, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds, with far-reaching consequences for their health and well-being. It is a prevalent global health issue affecting approximately half the world’s population. A shared mission among healthcare professionals is to equip themselves with the knowledge and skills to address this critical issue effectively. The pharmacotherapy management of obesity is not just about prescribing medications; it is about transforming lives, improving patient outcomes, and helping individuals regain control over their health and quality of life. Currently, the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) has approved nine anti-obesity medications (AOMs) for the short and long-term treatment of obesity. AOMs are recommended with lifestyle change for the therapy of overweight and obesity, following a similar methodology to other chronic disorders.

Pamela Moye, PharmD, BCPS, will breakdown the various facets of obesity management, from understanding the root causes and the epidemiological context to exploring the latest pharmacological interventions. This engaging session will also provide you with insights into practical approaches to develop patient-centered treatment plans, empower patients with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their health and promote long-term adherence. There will be an exploration of case studies that challenge decision-making skills and enrich clinical expertise.

Program Information

Objectives

Review the underlying pathophysiology of obesity and metabolic adaptations to weight loss.
Identify the pharmacotherapy options available for obesity management, including FDA-approved medications, their mechanisms of action, and their efficacy.
Explain the indications, contraindications, and precautions associated with various obesity medications.
Recognize potential side effects and adverse reactions of obesity medications and develop strategies for managing them.
Implement monitoring and follow-up strategies to assess the effectiveness of pharmacotherapy and address non-responder and relapse issues.
Apply the most recent evidence-based guidelines to develop individualized patient treatment plans, considering patient-specific factors and goals.

Outline

FDA Approved Obesity Pharmacotherapy Options

Orlistat
Phentermine
Phentermine and topiramate extended release
Byproprion and naltrexone extended release
Liraglutide
Semaglutide
Setmelanotide
Tirzepatide

Mechanism of action and efficacy
Indications, contraindications, and precautions
Potential side effects and adverse reactions
Medication safety and monitoring

Individualized Treatment Plans

Tailoring pharmacotherapy to patient-specific factors
Dosing strategies and titration
monitoring and follow-up
Addressing non-responder and relapse issues

Case Study Reviews

Review patient cases and scenarios
Discussion of treatment decisions and outcomes

Innovative Cost-Conscious Prescriptive Decisions in Chronic Disease Treatment

Be inspired to make positive changes in underserved and low-income healthcare, promoting cost-conscious decisions without sacrificing quality care. Martha Ndung’u, PharmD will share her expertise and passion for innovative cost-conscious prescriptive strategies, databases and tools for cost analysis, drug formulary selection, and real-world successes. You will be empowered with the knowledge and skills to make cost-conscious decisions in chronic disease treatment.

Program Information

Objectives

Explore the economic impact of chronic diseases and their management in underserved and low-income patients.
Evaluate the cost-effectiveness of treatment options for chronic diseases.
Discover innovative approaches to managing chronic diseases on a limited budget.
Acquire practical tools and resources for making cost-conscious decisions in treatment.

Outline

Economic Impact of Chronic Diseases

The burden of chronic diseases
Significance of underserved and low-income healthcare
Cost breakdown of managing chronic diseases
Pharmacoequity: The challenges of cost-effective care

Cost-Effective Analysis

Principles of cost-effectiveness analysis
Case studies: Comparing treatment options
Identifying high-value interventions

Innovative Strategies for Cost-Conscious Care

Leveraging technology and community partnerships
Collaborative care models
Patient education and self-management

Real-World Success Stories

Showcase cost-conscious programs
Lessons learned from global healthcare initiatives

Practical Tools and Resources

Accessible databases and tools for cost analysis
Drug formulary selection and utilization
Patient-centered decision-making

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

Accurately identify and diagnose patients with chronic migraine using the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD).
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.
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.
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

Motivational Interviewing for Busy Clinicians: Transform Brief Patient Interactions to Promote Behavior Change

Have you felt frustrated and out of ideas on how to help your patients make healthy lifestyle changes? Do you feel like you are just repeating yourself at each patient encounter and getting nowhere? Are you worried that if your patients don’t make healthier choices soon, it might be too late? You are not alone. So many healthcare professionals feel the same way. If you only could help patients move in the direction of healthy change, you know it would make such a positive impact on their lives.

We all know diabetes, heart disease, and obesity are some of the leading causes of death and disability in our country. If we as clinicians can help our patients with their modifiable risk factors, we can help them reduce their risks for illness, injury and disease. Many patients know what needs to be done to reduce their risks, but don’t or can’t make the necessary behavior changes on their own. What hinders them from making the changes they desire to? Is it a problem of motivation, fear, confidence or even prioritization? Imagine if you could have a better conversation with your patients that helps them explore their reasons for making healthy changes and help them move into action.

Utilizing MI in your practice can feel difficult with time constraints and so many things that need to be addressed in a typical patient visit. In this course, you will learn practical ways to incorporate MI into your patient encounters. You will learn how you can use MI, even in brief encounters, to help move patients in the direction of change to improve their health and well-being.

Program Information

Objectives

Determine how MI can help their patients with healthy behavior change.
Demonstrate key MI fundamental skills.
Identify patient situations/problems where MI might be helpful.
Plan for ways to integrate an MI approach into routine patient visits.

Outline

Healthy Lifestyle Changes are Difficult to Make: Discover the Skills to Help Your Patients Find Success

The patient perspective
How clinicians get in the way
MI as a tool for behavior change

Motivational Interviewing Essentials: Principles and Skills

Review of the Spirit, Tasks and Skills of Motivational Interviewing
Strategies for evoking change talk
Techniques for responding to Sustain Talk and Discord
Included updates from the 4th edition of "Motivational Interviewing: Helping People Change and Grow" by William Miller and Stephen Rollnick (creators of MI)

Integrating MI into Practice: Practical Ways to Incorporate MI During Your Patient Encounters

Utilizing MI in brief encounters
Integrating MI into your assessments
Providing advice and information in an effective way
MI for remote health encounters (telehealth)

Target Audience

Nurses
Physicians

The Hero’s Journey in Medicine & Beyond

Dr. Damania will discuss the transition to Health 3.0 through the monomyth of the Hero’s Journey. He will pay special attention to burnout and moral injury in the healthcare workforce and discuss how we can forge a new way for delivering care that is compassionate, relationship-based and technology-enabled. Dr. Damania will provide guidance and inspiration to dispel your doubts and fears, while also giving you strength and courage to begin the quest!

Program Information

Objectives

Identify the elements of the classic hero’s journey in individuals and our healthcare system.
Determine the root causes of provider burnout, moral injury and suffering.
Identify approaches to self-realization that address the root causes of suffering.
Explain new financial and care models that aim to deliver cost-effective, high-quality care while integrating left brain and right brain approaches.

Outline

The Hero’s Journey

Why it is relevant individually and systemically
Introduce the process of awakening and self-realization

Left Brain vs. Right Brain

Discuss the different approaches of the two hemispheres

Health 1.0

Review the old system as a starting place for the hero’s journey, pure right brain medicine

Health 2.0

Review the current medical paradigm, pure left brain medicine
The Hero’s Journey into trials and tribulations
Role of The Mentor

The Roots of Moral Injury/Burnout

Review of the current challenges in our healthcare system related to fee-for-service incentives
Malpractice considerations
Increasing administrative burden
Inability to focus on or get reimbursed for preventative and holistic approaches
Discuss mind-identification and thought-belief

The Hero’s Journey

The role of creative destruction of the false self and awakening
The role of meditation, retreats, practices

Health 3.0

Integration of left and right brain approaches with appropriate dominance of right hemisphere holistic approach
Discussion of medical models of Health 3.0

Awakening/Meditation

Sample techniques such as self-inquiry, natural meditation, and others