About this collection

This CPD module is focused on Sjögren’s syndrome, including its links to rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory autoimmune conditions, including systemic lupus erythematosus, fibromyalgia, and systemic sclerosis. On completion of this module, it is expected the reader will have an enhanced understanding of this area of rheumatology, including treatment options, such as DMARDs.

Cancer will affect approximately one-in-two people in Ireland at some point in their lives. Therefore, screening and early detection are increasingly important. On completion of this module, it is expected the reader will have an enhanced understanding of cancer classifications, staging, diagnosis and treatment. Various therapies are also discussed, including the pivotal role of the pharmacist.

This CPD module details the rising prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) based on the latest global figures and outlines the primary considerations for managing the disease in Ireland, with a particular focus on the role of the nurse in general practice. However, the information contained in the module is suitable for nurses from all backgrounds and specialties, who will undoubtedly encounter patients with the disease.

The risk factors, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, and complications of the T2DM are addressed, as is the treatment and management of the condition – both pharmacological and non-pharmacological. The current model of care for T2DM in Ireland, including inequalities and barriers to optimal treatment, are also described to guide the nurse through the current care pathways available for patients nationally.

A number of factors can contribute to the development of a migraine. Migraine is often confused with a ‘regular’ headache and can be debilitating if severe. On completion of this module, it is expected the reader will have an enhanced understanding of the pathophysiology of migraine, potential triggers, and management, including the right use of appropriate medications.

This module gives an expert overview of the presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of opioid dependence, with the latest Ireland-specific treatment guidelines and protocols.

RSV is a respiratory virus that primarily affects vulnerable populations, and pharmacists play a crucial role in vaccination against the virus, as well as other conditions. On completion of this module, it is expected the reader will have an enhanced understanding of different types of vaccines, indications, and child immunisation schedules. This module also addresses contraindications, adverse effects, and barriers to vaccination.

Diabetes is a group of chronic endocrine diseases characterised by elevated blood glucose levels. This is due to insufficient insulin production, impaired insulin action, or a combination of both. On completion of this module, it is expected the reader will have an enhanced understanding of the different types of diabetes, diagnostic tools, comorbidities and complications. This module will also touch on disease monitoring and pharmacological and non-pharmacological management strategies.

This module covers:

• Menopause and perimenopause – definitions
• Symptoms
• Long-term health impact
• HRT – benefits and risks
• Practical prescribing of HRT
• Non-hormonal therapies
• Lifestyle

This module covers:

• How to diagnose and where to refer patients with suspected melanoma
• Risk factors for the development of melanoma
• Treatment and follow-up of melanoma

Osteoporosis is common and affects an estimated over 300,000 people in Ireland. Although more common in females who have gone through the menopause, it can also affect men and occasionally children. It is defined as a decline in bone mass associated with a microarchitectural deterioration in bone resulting in an increased risk of fragility fracture.

This module explores the latest diagnosis and management approaches for asthma in adolescents and adults, including the most recent international guidelines.

This module gives a comprehensive overview of the important of iron throughout the various life stages of women, including menstruation, pregnancy, post-pregnancy, peri-menopause and menopause. The module discusses how to identify and treat  iron deficiency, including supplementation strategies, as well as diet and monitoring

COPD is the third-leading cause of mortality worldwide and correct and timely diagnosis is vital. On completion of this module, it is expected the reader will have an enhanced understanding of the most common symptoms, how to differentiate COPD from other respiratory diseases, and possible preventive measures. The importance of good inhaler technique and optimum pharmaceutical management are also addressed.

Osteoporosis is common and affects an estimated over 300,000 people in Ireland. Although more common in females who have gone through the menopause, it can also affect men and occasionally children. It is defined as a decline in bone mass associated with a microarchitectural deterioration in bone resulting in an increased risk of fragility fracture.

Many GI issues can be extremely troublesome and have life-long consequences. However, research and treatments are constantly evolving in this area. After reading this module, it is expected the reader will have an enhanced understanding of certain GI conditions, how preventative measures can help, and the diagnostic and treatment options for some of these conditions.

The management of wounds is best carried out by an organised multidisciplinary team that can offer support to the individual — and the pharmacist is one of the significant players in the process

A clinical overview of dermatology, including the role of the pharmacist. On completion of this module, it is expected that the reader will have an enhanced understanding of common dermatological conditions, including treatments and preventative measures

Cancer — the second leading cause of death globally — is a large group of diseases that is characterised by the abnormal and uncontrollable growth of cells, with the potential to invade or spread to other organs in the body.

This module gives an expert overview of the presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of opioid dependence, with the latest Ireland-specific treatment guidelines and protocols.

This module aims to give a detailed overview of the presentation, diagnosis, and latest treatment options to CLL in Ireland.

This module discusses one of the commonest feeding-related issues encountered in infants, reflux and gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, and outlines the latest guidance on diagnosis and management

This module discusses one of the commonest feeding-related issues encountered in infants, reflux and gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, and outlines the latest guidance on diagnosis and management

An expert overview of the pathology, epidemiology and diagnosis of IBD and the latest treatment and management strategies

Osteoporosis and fragility fractures — which can affect the vertebrae, hip, distal radius, proximal humerus, and pelvis — cause severe pain, disability and reduced quality of life. Half of all women and 25% of men over 50 will have experience of the disease.

Type 2 diabetes is a complex chronic disease, which requires a multifactorial behavioural and pharmacological approach to treatment in order to prevent or delay complications and maintain quality-of life. This includes management of blood glucose levels, weight, cardiovascular risk factors, comorbidities, and complications. A holistic, person-centered approach is essential to enhance engagement, and careful consideration of social determinants of health and preference of the person living with diabetes must guide individualisation of treatment goals and strategies.¹ This module will summarise the latest guidelines on the management of type 2 diabetes in non-pregnant adults.

This module examines the aetiology of MS. The geographical distribution, different subtypes and the treatment available are discussed.

This module focuses on diabetes mellitus, describes the prevalence patterns, and the differences between type 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus. We also look at the mechanisms of action behind antidiabetic drugs. 

On completion of this module, it is expected that the candidate will have a greater understanding of the medications used in the management of diabetes mellitus, particularly type 2, treatment approaches, and how the role of the pharmacist can help to support people with diabetes.

This module gives a comprehensive overview of the important of iron throughout the various life stages of women, including menstruation, pregnancy, post-pregnancy, peri-menopause and menopause. The module discusses how to identify and treat  iron deficiency, including supplementation strategies, as well as diet and monitoring

The goal of this module is to discuss three of the common chronic pain conditions encountered in both primary care and secondary care. For each condition, the diagnosis, classification and treatment modalities (both medical and interventional) will be discussed. 

This module reviews the diagnosis, pathogenesis and treatment of coccygodynia. The goal of this module is to review the presentation, pathogenesis, differential diagnosis and treatment of coccygodynia. It will also include a concise review of the functional anatomy of the coccyx.

This module provides an overview of the different types of acute pain often seen in community and GP settings, and current management strategies.

This module looks at hepatic encephalopathy, a common complication of chronic liver disease. It discusses what hepatic encephalopathy is, its causes and how best to treat and prevent its reoccurrence.

This module addresses the diagnosis and management of multiple sclerosis. Presenting symptoms, the 2017 McDonald criteria and the wide range of treatment options, their applications and risks are also discussed. The module also addresses pregnancy and MS.

Iron deficiency is common in patients with heart failure and is probably underdiagnosed in clinical practice. This module addresses the assessment and management of this common condition. It also discusses various studies and the latest guidelines regarding HF and iron deficiency.

The goal of this module is to review the diagnosis and treatment of chronic plaque psoriasis (CPP) in adults. The content identifies the key features of CPP in adults and recommends a stepwise approach to the management. It reviews methods of grading severity of disease and advises on an appropriate therapeutic approach to the management. It highlights common co-morbidities and complications of therapy.

This module provides an overview of lowering cholesterol using a dietary approach. Key learning points for healthcare professionals include the importance of preventing cardiovascular disease, the benefits of a cholesterol-lowering diet and the role of plant stanols and sterols.

This module addresses the aetiology, epidemiology, diagnosis and treatment of IBD. The differences between Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis and other colitides are explored.

The main learning outcome for this module is that patients should have an individualized approach to thromboprophylaxis for the prevention of venous thromboembolism. Risk stratification based on patient’s individual risk factors should be documented in the patient’s chart. There are a number of Risk Assessment Models that can be used for risk stratification including the Padua Prediction Score and IMPROVE Score for hospitalized medical patients while the Caprini score is validated and widely utilised for surgical patients. Patients immobilised due to trauma or lower limb casting also require a individualised risk-assessment to determine their need for prophylaxis. The module sets out common scenarios that we encounter in the fracture clinic with suggested management for VTE Prevention.

The goal of this module is to make a diagnosis and confirm diabetes mellitus, as well as understand the differing phenotype/genotypes of DM. The content and questions specifically identify key issues in the management of DM, addressing all relevant risk factors and co-morbities as well as understanding and knowing specific targets as iterated by NICE, ADA, and EASD. The module also includes the preferred multi-factorial approach to DM rather than a pure glucose-centric one, as demonstrated in the original STENO trials. The case also illustrates the model of the multi-factorial approach specifically looking at the newer cholesterol guidelines of the European Society of Cardiology, DM Sept. 2019 and approach to BP management (European Society of Hypertension, 2019).

The goal of this module is to review the diagnosis, classification and treatment of patients with lipid disorders based on the updated 2019 European Society of Cardiology Guidelines. The content identifies key features in the recognition and treatment of lipid disorders in both primary and secondary prevention in a step wise approach. It also reviews new emerging treatments for resistant dyslipidaemias including the use of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors and imaging techniques for risk stratification.

Feeding difficulties are very common during early infancy, especially during the first six weeks following birth. Although the aetiology can be varied, the majority of infants present with similar symptoms which include irritability, difficulty in completing feeds and poor sleeping patterns. Therefore, differentiating between benign causes and more pathological underlying clinical conditions can be challenging. However, failure to thrive is rarely associated with feeding issues that have an underlying pathophysiology and knowledge of normal infant growth and weight gain patterns is an important first step for distinguishing between benign and more serious causes. In this module, we discuss the commonest feeding issues encountered over the first three to six months of age (colic, gastroesophageal reflux disease, cow’s milk protein allergy and lactose intolerance) and suggest an approach to their management

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is a chronic autoimmune condition characterised by autoimmune destruction of the pancreatic beta cell. It is associated with macrovascular and microvascular complications. Tight glycaemic control has been shown to ameliorate the long-term complications of T1DM. Monitoring glucose levels frequently helps patients to achieve more intensive glycaemic control. Fingerprick blood glucose monitoring has traditionally been the most commonly used method. More recently, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems have shown improvements in glycaemic control, reduced frequency of hypoglycaemia, improved recognition of hypoglycaemia and an improvement in quality of life. This module will summarise the evidence for CGM and its current role in the management of patients with T1DM.

Learning objectives of this module:

• Understand the principal causes (AL amyloidosis and ATTR) and underlying pathophysiology of cardiac amyloidosis 
• Identify patients to screen for cardiac amyloidosis and the subsequent diagnostic process 
• Develop insight into the management of cardiac amyloidosis and its underlying causes

Psoriasis is an immune-mediated skin condition which affects approximately 1-to-3 per cent of the population, and can have a significant impact on quality-of-life and health, which is important not to underestimate. As outlined in this module, treatments for psoriasis have advanced such that patients can expect to have clear or nearly clear skin, with a broad range of effective therapies to treat mild to moderate to severe disease.

Discussing treatment of the various conditions with patients increases awareness of treatment expectations, potential adverse effects, recommended monitoring, and alternative options

This module aims to give a detailed overview of the presentation, diagnosis, and latest treatment options to CLL in Ireland.

Migraine is a complex neurological disorder in which under-diagnosis and under-treatment is widespread. There has been much excitement in the headache community in the last few years as migraine-specific preventative treatments, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) antagonist drugs, have finally come to the market. This CPD module aims to make healthcare professionals more aware of the many non-headache presentations of migraine, highlight why migraine is under diagnosed, and discuss the latest treatment approaches so the maximum amount of people with migraine can be helped.

Cardiac conditions can be complex and multifactorial, depending on age, lifestyle, genetics and other factors. On completion of this module, the reader will have an enhanced understanding of the heart’s physiology, risk factors, diseases of the heart, and the importance of choosing the right therapy for the patient’s circumstances

Allergic rhinitis is inflammation of the nasal passages caused by an allergen, such as pollen, dust, mould, or skin flakes from certain animals. Hay fever is a type of allergic rhinitis caused by pollen or spores. Hay fever affects the nose, sinuses, throat, and eyes and usually occurs during the spring and summer months. Exactly when it occurs depends on which pollens the person is allergic to.

Diabetes is one of the fastest-growing diseases in Ireland. The Diabetic Federation of Ireland estimate there are over 200,000 diabetics in Ireland and that over half of these have no idea they have diabetes. On completion of this module, the reader should have an enhanced understanding of the types of diabetes, risk factors, and appropriate foods, as well as pharmacological treatment options.

Whilst there is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), certain medications and self-help strategies can relieve pain and slow progression. On completion of this module, it is expected that the reader will have an enhanced understanding of the nature of RA, including different severities of the condition, and pain management options to control the symptoms of the disease.

IBD is a complex disorder with multiple potential causative factors and the inflammatory response has a severe impact on quality of life. It also has the potential to create physical complications and potentially, other diseases. On completion of this module, it is expected the reader will have an enhanced understanding of the different types of IBD, physical manifestations, the various potential complications, and the treatment and management possibilities.

This module is focused on the different types of cancer and their causes, as well as potential treatment options and side-effects. The role of the pharmacist in oncology care is also discussed. On completion of this module, it is expected that the reader will have an enhanced understanding of oncology care and the different types of treatment methodologies available.

This module is focused on osteoporosis, including detection and symptoms. On completion of this module, it is expected the reader will have an enhanced understanding of osteoporosis, including potential causes and pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies.

There are many causes of dry skin. Among the most common causes are conditions like dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, and seborrhoeic dermatitis. This module will focus on these conditions. Upon completion of this module, it is expected the reader will have an enhanced understanding of the different types of these conditions, including their diagnosis, treatment and management, as well as the role of the pharmacist.

Atrial fibrillation is the most common form of arrhythmia, of which there are several. An arrhythmia is a heart rhythm problem and can manifest itself as the heart rate being too quick, too slow or irregular. On completion of this module, the reader should have an enhanced understanding of atrial fibrillation, including different types of arrhythmia, diagnostic methods, and the drugs and procedures that can be used to treat the condition.

This CPD module is focused on asthma in all its forms and the treatment opportunities. On completion of this module, it is expected that the reader will have an enhanced understanding of the causes, prevalence and distinctions between different severities of asthma, as well as evidence on the most effective treatment options.

This module is focused on sinusitis, a normally transient condition affecting the lining of the sinuses. It is expected that on completion of this module, the reader will have a greater understanding of the progression and symptoms of sinusitis, including the different types and causes, as well as treatment options and potential complications.

This module looks at the complexities of pain management and outlines a number of pharmacological pain management strategies. The methods of classification for pain are discussed and how this is important when deciding which treatment is most appropriate. Common pain medications are discussed in detail.

This module is focused on rheumatoid arthritis, it’s causes, prevalence and diagnosis. On completion of this module, it is expected that the reader will have an enhanced clinical understanding of the condition, including the different types of rheumatoid arthritis and treatment options and their potential side-effects. Arthritis is a general term used for the condition; however, there are over 100 types of arthritis. The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). RA is one of the most debilitating forms of the condition.

The aim of this CPD module is to discuss the pathophysiology of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), diagnosis and treatment. The complications of RA and how a multidisciplinary approach to care is needed for managing multisystem autoimmune diseases are also addressed.

An overview of the latest approaches and evidence in treating iron deficiency in patients with cardiovascular issues.

The aim of this online module is to explore the diagnosis, patient education, medications and nursing management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in early disease using the ‘treat-to-target’ approach. This module will also highlight clinical issues that can cause barriers to adequate disease control such as gaining patients’ trust, managing expectations and family planning.

This module discusses the clinical presentation and main types of delirium in hospitalised older adults. Furthermore, it addresses the risk factors, assessment diagnosis, prevention and management strategies of this common, yet poorly recognised, condition.

A comprehensive overview of the presentation and management of type 2 diabetes.

This module provides an overview of the different types of acute pain often seen in community and GP settings, and current management strategies.

Atrial fibrillation is the mostcommon form of arrhythmia, of which there are several. Anarrhythmia is a heart rhythm problem and can manifest itself as the heart rate being too quick, too slow or irregular. On completion of this module, the reader should have an enhanced understanding of atrial fibrillation, including different types of arrhythmia, diagnostic methods, and the drugs and procedures that can be used to treat the condition.

This clinical module provides a detailed overview of the prevention, diagnosis, and management of diabetic foot disease

This CPD module is focused on Sjögren’s syndrome, including its links to rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory autoimmune conditions, including systemic lupus erythematosus, fibromyalgia, and systemic sclerosis. On completion of this module, it is expected the reader will have an enhanced understanding of this area of rheumatology, including treatment options, such as DMARDs.

Feeding difficulties are very common during early infancy, especially during the first six weeks following birth. Although the aetiology can be varied, the majority of infants present with similar symptoms which include irritability, difficulty in completing feeds and poor sleeping patterns. Therefore, differentiating between benign causes and more pathological underlying clinical conditions can be challenging. However, failure to thrive is rarely associated with feeding issues that have an underlying pathophysiology and knowledge of normal infant growth and weight gain patterns is an important first step for distinguishing between benign and more serious causes. In this module, we discuss the commonest feeding issues encountered over the first three to six months of age (colic, gastroesophageal reflux disease, cow’s milk protein allergy and lactose intolerance) and suggest an approach to their management

This module outlines what ‘cervical’ is. It highlights the epidemiology, pathogenesis and risk factors of cervical cancer. The module summarises the staging and complex management options of the various stages that comprise cervical cancer. It also discusses cervical screening.

This module discusses the clinical presentation and the main types of Crohn’s disease. It also addresses the diagnosis, treatment and management of this emotionally challenging and physically debilitating disease.

In this module you will be introduced to some basic information about lung cancer. It highlights the epidemiology, pathogenesis and risk factors of lung cancer. The module summarises the complex staging and management options of the various stages of lung cancer. The latest treatments are also discussed.

Iron deficiency is common in patients with heart failure and is probably underdiagnosed in clinical practice. This module addresses the assessment and management of this common condition. It also discusses various studies and the latest guidelines regarding HF and iron deficiency.

This article aims to provide practice nurses with concise, evidence-based information regarding the safe and effective pharmacologic management of acute pain in children in the general practice setting. Information and resources outlined may aid the practice nurse in the process of parent education regarding effective pharmacologic management of pain in the home.

This module addresses the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis. The importance of early intervention so as to provide patients with appropriate information and testing to establish risk and and treatment is also discussed.

Type 2 diabetes is a complex chronic disease, which requires a multifactorial behavioural and pharmacological approach to treatment in order to prevent or delay complications and maintain quality of life. This module will summarise the latest guidelines on the management of type 2 diabetes in non-pregnant adults.

On completion of this module on acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) you will have an insight and understanding of AML, its pathology, symptoms, diagnosis, treatments, and current clinical practice guidelines (CPGs).

The aim of this CPD module is to discuss the pathophysiology of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), diagnosis and treatment. The complications of RA and how a multidisciplinary approach to care is needed for managing multisystem autoimmune diseases are also addressed.

An overview of the latest approaches and evidence in treating iron deficiency in patients with cardiovascular issues.

It is important that any medical professional working with children is comfortable with the diagnosis of diabetes, its day-to-day management, and the recognition and treatment of diabetic emergencies.

This module explores the latest diagnosis and management approaches for asthma in adolescents and adults, including the most recent international guidelines.

This module is sponsored by BIAL Pharma UK Ltd. BIAL have not had any input into the content of this module. Idiopathic Parkinson’s disease (IPD) is a common, progressive, neurodegenerative disease which affects 1 per cent of the population over 60. IPD is a complex disease which manifests in different ways over the course of disease, so treatment strategies must evolve with the predominant problem at each stage of the disease.

A comprehensive overview of the presentation and management of type 2 diabetes.

This module reviews the diagnosis and management of depression in adults. The objective is to review the diagnosis of depression, based on the ICD-11 and DSM-5 criteria, and the management of depression.

This CPD module gives a comprehensive expert overview of the latest treatment strategies for hypercholesterolaemia.

This CPD module gives a comprehensive expert overview of the latest treatment strategies in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC), including diagnosis, staging, surgery and drug regimens.

This clinical module provides a detailed overview of the prevention, diagnosis, and management of diabetic foot disease.

The goal of this module is to review the need and process for risk assessment for venous thromboembolism (VTE) with a focus on the process adopted in England, utilising the NHS risk assessment tool. VTE epidemiology, risk factors and approach to risk assessment in hospitalised patients and pregnancy are reviewed.

This module will focus on certain aspects of analgesia, including distinguishing different types of pain, particularly chronic pain. A holistic approach to pain control is outlined, as well as pain’s impact on the patient, including its causes and treatment options. On completion of this module, it is expected the reader will have a greater understanding of the suitability of different types of analgesia and how the doctor can educate the patient on aspects of self-care, among other considerations.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic systemic inflammatory autoimmune condition with periods of exacerbation and remission, characterised by synovitis and joint destruction mediated by cytokines, chemokines, and metalloproteases. This module uses a typical patient case study to outline the latest management strategies for this disease.

This module discusses the rationale for prescribing antipsychotic medication. The importance of involving the patient in the choice depending on the side effect profile of the various agents with a view to minimising the risk of non-compliance.

This module focuses on the causes and risk factors for diabetes, as well as the different types of appropriate treatment options and their pharmacological effects. This module also provides an overview of non-pharmacological options, and the benefits of exercise and dietary considerations. On completion of this module, it is expected the reader will have an enhanced understanding of the nature of diabetes and how it can best be managed using a combined approach.