About this collection

Neuropathic pain is one of the most incapacitating pains and represents a significant unmet medical need. This module aims to give an overview of medication-focused treatment recommendations and highlight future possible targets in this field

This module reviews the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical assessment, and medical and surgical management of male LUTS, integrating evidence from major randomised controlled trials and current guideline recommendations.

This module focuses on the clinical management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA). On completion of this module, it is expected the reader will have an enhanced understanding of the diagnostic and treatment considerations, including follow-up and monitoring, and tapering or discontinuation of medicines.

This module provides evidence-based assessment and safe management approaches specifically designed for medically-compromised orofacial pain patients. Participants will develop competency in: comprehensive medical history assessment, identification of medication interactions and contraindications, risk stratification of medically-compromised patients, adaptation of assessment techniques for complex patients, safe pharmacological management with medical comorbidities, safe interventional procedures in high-risk patients and coordination with medical providers for optimal outcomes.

This advanced module provides comprehensive understanding of neuropathic and persistent orofacial pain mechanisms, advanced diagnostic techniques and contemporary management strategies incorporating cutting-edge pharmacological, interventional and regenerative approaches. Participants will develop advanced competency in pathophysiological mechanisms underlying neuropathic pain transition, advanced diagnostic imaging and electrophysiological testing, precision medicine approaches to treatment selection and integration of laser-assisted photobiomodulation and biologic regenerative therapies.

Upon completion, advanced practitioners will be equipped to manage complex, refractory neuropathic and persistent orofacial pain cases, implement precision medicine diagnostic algorithms, coordinate multidisciplinary care and deliver evidence-based advanced management strategies that optimise clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction in this challenging patient population.

Target Audience: Practicing dentists, oral medicine specialists, pain clinicians, dental postgraduate students and specialists in orofacial pain management.

This CPD module presents a case study of a physically active middle-aged male who developed persistent lateral thigh pain following a minor injury. Through this case, the module explores the pathogenesis and clinical features of hip osteoarthritis, potential alternative causes of lateral thigh pain, and the role of rehabilitation-based interventions.

Following completion of this module, participants should be able to:

1. Recognise the clinical features of hip osteoarthritis and understand its typical presentation, pathogenesis, and risk factors.
2. Identify alternative causes of lateral thigh and shin pain, including lumbar radiculopathy, greater trochanteric pain syndrome, iliotibial band pathology, and myofascial pain syndromes.
3. Correlate clinical examination findings with imaging results, recognising situations where radiological findings may not fully explain the patient’s symptoms.
4. Perform a structured clinical assessment of patients presenting with hip and lateral thigh pain, including gait evaluation, neurological examination, and functional testing.
5. Understand the role of conservative management strategies, including targeted rehabilitation, soft tissue therapy, and adjunct techniques, in the management of musculoskeletal pain syndromes affecting the hip region.
6. Appreciate the importance of multidisciplinary care and evidence-informed decision-making when considering surgical versus non-surgical management options.

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.

CPD Module: Endometriosis management for general practice nurses

GPNs are often the first clinicians to encounter individuals with symptoms suggestive of endometriosis. Their role in early recognition, education, symptom monitoring, safety-netting, and referral is therefore pivotal

Module Aim

After completing this CPD module, the reader should be able to:
• Describe the epidemiology and public health burden of endometriosis.
• Explain the normal menstrual cycle and the pathophysiology of endometriosis in clear, patient-centred terms.
• Recognise typical and atypical clinical presentations and red flags.
• Understand how pharmacological treatments work and why they are used.
• Explain the role and rationale of non-pharmacological interventions.
• Apply evidence-based management, monitoring, and referral pathways in general practice.
• Understand the impact of endometriosis on fertility, cancer risk, and surgical decision-making.

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 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.

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 clinicians through the current care pathways available for patients nationally.

This module aims to outline the presentation, treatment, importance of prevention of complications, and the growing reality of prevention of Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus (HZO) as a clinical entity.

This module was supported by an unrestricted educational grant from GSK

More than 10,000 new cases of heart failure are diagnosed in Ireland every year, yet the majority are still diagnosed via hospital admission. Despite its prevalence, heart failure remains a challenging condition to identify early due to non-specific symptoms like fatigue and breathlessness, which are often mistakenly attributed to aging.

In this episode, host Dawn O’Shea is joined by Professor Ken McDonald, Consultant Cardiologist at St. Vincent’s Hospital and National Co-Lead for the National Heart Program. Professor McDonald shares expert insights on the clinical “antennae” required to catch heart failure in the community, the critical role of natriuretic peptide testing, and the evolving landscape of disease-modifying therapies. He also addresses the integration of new treatments like SGLT2 inhibitors and the importance of structured patient self-care in long-term management.

5 Interesting Takeaways:

• The Diagnostic Delay Challenge: In the UK system, the time from the onset of symptoms to a formal diagnosis of heart failure can exceed two years—a delay that would be considered unacceptable in cancer care.
• The Power of Rule-Out Tests: Natriuretic peptide is an exceptional “rule-out” tool; if the test is normal, practitioners can be very confident the cause of breathlessness is not heart failure.
• The “Homegrown” Diuretic Effect: Certain disease-modifying treatments, such as the ARNI compound (sacubitril/valsartan), can reduce a patient’s need for traditional diuretics by preserving the body’s own natural atrial natriuretic peptide.
• SGLT2 Inhibitors’ Amazing Evolution: Originally developed for type 2 diabetes, SGLT2 inhibitors have emerged as a cornerstone of heart failure therapy for both reduced and preserved ejection fraction, even in patients without diabetes.
• The Importance of Reaction Over Detection: Advanced monitoring technology is only effective if there is a system to react to the data; many hospitalizations could be avoided if patients and providers acted more quickly on early signals like sudden weight gain or worsening fatigue.

Diabetes is one of the fastest growing diseases in Ireland. On completion of this module, it is expected the reader will have an enhanced understanding of causes and risk factors, pharmacological therapies, self-help measures, and emerging therapy options. Aspects of the different types of diabetes are also synopsised.

This CPD module outlines the latest guidance on diagnosing and managing asthma in adults and adolescents. It highlights updated recommendations from GINA 2025 and BTS/NICE/SIGN 2024, emphasising objective testing, early anti-inflammatory treatment, and the central role of ICS–formoterol as both reliever and controller. The module reviews key asthma phenotypes, stepwise management, and the growing use of biologics, while also covering practical considerations such as comorbidities, self-management, and long-term follow-up.

Orofacial pain represents one of the most prevalent yet frequently misdiagnosed conditions in dental and medical practice, affecting 10-15 per cent of the general population and accounting for significant healthcare burden, functional impairment and economic costs.

This comprehensive module provides structured, evidence-based assessment and management approaches for the full spectrum of orofacial pain conditions. Participants will develop competency in systematic pain history and examination techniques, application of validated assessment tools and classification systems, integration of neurobiological understanding with clinical assessment, identification of red flags requiring urgent referral, differential diagnosis of common orofacial pain presentations and implementation of evidence-based multimodal management strategies. Upon completion, practitioners will be equipped to provide comprehensive orofacial pain assessment, coordinate multidisciplinary care, implement appropriate management strategies and optimise patient outcomes in this challenging clinical population.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, presenting significant challenges in both primary and secondary care. Effective management requires a clear understanding of the underlying disease processes, associated risk factors, and the frequent comorbidities that complicate patient care.

This module provides a structured overview of COPD, covering the key elements required for confident clinical assessment and management. Learners will explore the pathophysiology of COPD and its risk factors, recognise common comorbid conditions, and review the essential investigations used to support diagnosis and monitoring. The module also addresses evidence-based management strategies for patients with chronic stable COPD, as well as the timely recognition and treatment of acute exacerbations.

On completion, participants will be better equipped to deliver informed, guideline-aligned care to patients living with COPD across a range of clinical settings.

This CPD module provides an outline of what pharmacists and pharmacy staff need to know about OTC medicines. On completion of this module, it is expected the reader will have an enhanced understanding of some of the most common OTC medications, including interactions, common side-effects, contraindications, and more. This module can also serve as a quick-reference guide for the most common OTC medications.

This CPD module provides a comprehensive overview of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) – focusing on best practice guidance and infection prevention and control (IPC). The module explores RSV itself, its mode of transmission, what IPC measures can be put in place, and what tools we have in our arsenal to prevent infection in our vulnerable population groups.

The symptoms of rheumatological conditions have an impact beyond joint pain and mobility issues. On completion of this module, it is expected the reader will have an enhanced understanding of the most common rheumatological conditions, including acute conditions and pharmacological therapies, including initiation and escalation principles.

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a slowly progressive neurodegenerative disorder with preclinical, prodromal and clinical stages. Despite being one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases, an accurate diagnosis of PD remains challenging. This CPD module gives a comprehensive overview of the presentation, diagnosis and latest management strategies of PD.

Over the last decade considerable progress has been made in type 1 (insulin dependent) diabetes care with significant advancements in continuous glucose monitoring devices and automated insulin delivery systems. This module charts the evolution of these technologies, examines the evidence on their benefits, and outlines key considerations in their usage.

General practice nurses (GPNs) play a crucial role in supporting women during menopause, providing education, symptom management, and guidance on lifestyle and pharmacological interventions.³ This module is designed to support GPNs fulfil this role.

Women’s health has many strands that often intersect. On completion of this module, it is expected the reader will have an enhanced understanding of menopausal health, UTIs, and vaginal health, as well as the current NICE guidelines.

Nurses in both primary and secondary care play a vital role in detecting CKD, delaying its progress, delivering and coordinating care during all of its stages, providing education and support to patients with the disease, and palliating symptoms throughout its trajectory. This CPD module provides an overview of CKD with a focus on general nursing considerations, rather than specialist renal care. The learner will gain knowledge about the high prevalence of CKD in Ireland; risk factors for developing the disease; its pathophysiology; functions of the kidney and subsequent systemic dysfunction in kidney disease; diagnosis and staging; general management strategies; and screening recommendations.

This practice development module provides an up to date, evidence-based review of CDI, focusing on risk factors, testing and diagnosis, classification, management, and infection prevention strategies, with reference to recent literature to further inform best practice.

Rates of hypertension, both in Ireland and worldwide, have exploded in recent decades. However, this has also led to a greater awareness of the condition and how it can be prevented and treated. On completion of this module, it is expected the reader will have an enhanced understanding of the risk factors for hypertension, as well as treatment options and special patient groups. Methods for obtaining the most accurate blood pressure measurement are also discussed.

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.

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

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 module provides an overview of cervical cancer, including its epidemiology, and underlying pathogenesis. It examines the key risk factors associated with the development of cervical cancer, with particular focus on persistent high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. The module outlines the classification, grading, and staging of cervical cancer using the FIGO system and explores management strategies, from early-stage to recurrent and metastatic cases. It highlights the important role of HPV-based cervical screening in early detection and prevention.

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.

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.

Menopause and perimenopause are key stages in a woman’s life that can significantly affect health and wellbeing. This practical CPD module equips healthcare professionals with the knowledge and confidence to recognise symptoms, understand long-term health implications, and provide effective, evidence-based support.

The module covers hormone replacement therapy (HRT), including benefits, risks, and practical prescribing, alongside non-hormonal treatment options and lifestyle approaches. Designed for real-world clinical practice, it supports informed, patient-centred menopause care.

Although more common in females who have gone through the menopause, Osteoporosis 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.

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.

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.