Free CEUs for Nurse Practitioners

Free Pharmacology Hours- Best Practice in Care for Menopausal Patients

2017-04-04T13:39:00.000-04:00

Best Practice in Care for the Menopausal Patient: 14 Years after the Women's Health Initiative- Initial and subsequent findings from the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) resulted in confusion regarding the safety and efficacy of menopause hormone therapy (MHT). Additional studies and reanalysis of the WHI findings over the past 14 years have brought management of menopausal symptoms back to the forefront in women’s health. This interactive activity is designed to update primary care and women’s health providers on the most current evidence-based practices in managing menopausal symptoms and evaluating individualized benefits vs risks of patients based on personal and family history. A review of the WHI will be included as well as an examination of FDA and off-label MHT pharmacologic therapeutic options. Other topics included non pharmacologic symptom management choices and non-hormonal agents that are guideline-based for women who either don’t want to take hormonal agents or who cannot take MHT. Identify key conclusions of the preliminary and subsequent findings of the WHI as reported by the Principal Investigators of the study. Describe reporting components from the WHI conclusions that factored into misinterpretations into the analysis of risks and benefits associated with use of hormone therapy in postmenopausal women. Discuss the short- and long-term consequences to menopausal women, especially in younger women who are likely to be more symptomatic, if clinicians do not explore the severity of menopausal transition in their aging female patients. Discuss evidence-based hormone therapy guidelines issued from renowned health organizations for treatment and management of various symptoms and comorbidities associated with menopausal transition. Apply risk benefits to the clinical case studies presented to determine best practice decisions in recommending pharmacological vs non-pharmacological therapeutic options for management of menopausal transition.

1.25 Free CEUs for Advanced Practice Nurses which includes 1.25 Free Pharmacology Hours

Tips for Clinical Documention in Asthma Management

2017-03-10T12:12:00.000-05:00

Asthma Management and Tips for Clinical Documentation- Whether you know the step approach to asthma therapy like the back of your hand, or rely on pulling it up in an app when a patient presents with asthma, the goal of this presentation is to review asthma management guidelines in a simple, concrete way to ensure the appropriate classification of asthma severity. Clinicians tend to underestimate asthma severity which can lead to inappropriate therapy. National asthma guidelines recommend assessment and documentation of asthma severity at each office visit which directs clinicians to consider the long-term management of asthma, rather than just acute treatment of the disease. Does your documentation reflect all that was assessed, discussed, determined and agreed upon at the visit? The clinical documentation of asthma severity includes indicators of quality care such as receipt of an action plan, spacer device, peak flow meter, asthma education and influenza vaccination. The chart must reflect supportive documentation regarding the specific ICD-10 diagnosis (es) selected. This presentation also will provide tips to consider for improved chart documentation of asthma in your clinical practice setting. Understand how to classify asthma severity and control. Evaluate the stepwise approach in asthma management. Review optimal pharmacotherapy options in the provision of quality asthma care. Enhance clinical documentation skills for appropriate coding and reimbursement.

1.25 Free CEUs for Advanced Practice Nurses

Expires 11/30/18

Free Pharmacology Hours- Improving Outcomes in Heart Failure Patients

2017-02-07T12:00:00.000-05:00

Meeting Quality Measures and Improving Outcomes in Heart Failure Patients With Comorbidities: Where Do New Therapies Fit? Describe the interrelationships of pathophysiology in heart failure (HF) and metabolic syndrome. Assess how current HF therapies can be used synergistically in the treatment of patients with comorbid metabolic syndrome. Evaluate the efficacy and safety of newly approved therapies for treating patients with HF and comorbid metabolic syndrome.

1.0 Free Contact Hours for Nurse Practitioners which includes 1.0 Hours of Pharmacology

Expires 12/16/17

Educational funding donation provided by Amgen and an educational grant from Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation.

4.0 Free CEUs- Preventive Healthcare

2017-01-19T12:00:00.000-05:00

Preventive Health Care- Screening is an effective method for detecting and preventing acute and chronic diseases. In the United States healthcare tends to be provided after someone has become unwell and medical attention is sought. Poor health habits play a large part in the pathogenesis and progression of many common, chronic diseases. Conversely, healthy habits are very effective at preventing many diseases. The common causes of chronic disease and prevention are discussed with a primary focus on the role of health professionals to provide preventive healthcare and to educate patients to recognize risk factors and to avoid a chronic disease.

4.0 Free CEUs for Nurse Practitioners which includes 0.5 Free Hours of Pharmacology

Free Pharmacology Hours: Head Lice- Diagnosis and Treatment

2017-01-04T12:00:00.000-05:00

Head Lice: Update on Diagnosis and Treatment- Head lice infestation (also known as pediculosis) is the infection of the head hair and scalp by the head louse, Pediculus humanus capitis. The condition is common in the United States, particularly among the young; an estimated 14 million individuals are treated for head lice annually, with 6 to 12 million being children. Once infection occurs, the head lice irritate the skin and/or scalp and cause itching. Discuss the etiology and biology of head lice infestation Identify signs and symptoms of head lice infestation and distinguish between active infestation and other material in hair Evaluate the effectiveness and risks of various prescription and over-the-counter lice treatment options, particularly newer agents Counsel parents and patients on proper implementation of various treatments for head lice

1.0 Free CEUs for Nurse Practitioners which includes 0.5 Free Hours of Pharmacology

Expires 9/1/17

Congestive Heart Failure- Free Hour of Pharmacology

2016-12-08T12:17:00.000-05:00

Heart Failure Management: A 2016 Update List two new drug classes approved in 2015 for the treatment of heart failure. List two specific goals for patient education regarding risk and benefit for these new therapies. Identify the indications for the use of ivabradine. Identify the indications for the use of the combination agent sacubitril/valsartan in the patient with heart failure.

1.0 Free CEUs for Advanced Nurse Practitioners which includes 1.0 Free Hours of Pharmacology

Expires 9/2017

Optimizing Treatment for HIV-infected Patients

2016-11-15T13:14:00.000-05:00

Antiretroviral Therapy: Optimizing Treatment for HIV-infected Patients- With over 25 approved antiretroviral medications available in the U.S., clinicians are faced with multiple excellent options for initial treatment of an HIV-infected patient. Choosing between these options should be guided by specific characteristics of the patient (e.g. presence or absence of drug resistance, comorbidities, HLA-B5701 status), particular features of the regimen (drug-drug interactions, dosing frequency, food requirements), and patient preferences. Thus, antiretroviral therapy in 2016 is not one-size-fits-all; rather, therapy should be individualized and personalized. Review considerations involved in choosing an antiretroviral regimen for initial therapy, Evaluate options for switching therapy when a patient is experiencing side effects or drug-drug interactions, and Review best practices for monitoring HIV-infected patients on antiretroviral therapy.

2.0 Free Contact Hours for Nurse Practitioners which includes 2.0 Free Hours of Pharmacology

Expires 10/15/17

Support for this activity has been made possible through an educational grant from Gilead Sciences.

Insurance Billing and Coding for Obesity Medicine

2016-10-28T12:27:00.000-04:00

Insurance Billing & Coding- As the obesity epidemic progresses, healthcare professionals should look toward educational forums to learn about the most modern advances in research, treatment, and best business practices to improve the quality of life for individuals who are obese and overweight. The conference promotes educational advancement by merging academic and clinical experts with professionals, and provides an opportunity for networking and the exchange of indispensable knowledge. List the steps necessary to keep up to date on latest regarding billing for obesity medicine. Explain why preventive billing and coding did not work for us. Describe how sick billing coding works for us.

0.75 Free CEUs for Nurse Practitioners

Expires 10/11/17

Emerging Insulin Agents- Your Role in Improving Diabetes Outcomes

2016-10-13T12:57:00.000-04:00

Emerging Insulin Agents and the Pivotal Role of Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants in Improving Diabetes Outcomes- In the US in 2012, 29.1 million people (9.1% of the population) had diabetes. Some projections estimate that diabetes will affect up to 50% of the US population by 2020, or as many as 1 in 3 Americans. Implementation of effective and aggressive evidence-based diabetes care can change this grim trajectory. Nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) play an increasingly pivotal role in managing diabetes patients and controlling morbidity and mortality. As frontline providers, NPs and PAs are in an ideal position to recognize and initiate corrective measures for inadequate treatments, help patients set and achieve therapeutic goals, and assess diabetes-related complications as they arise. NPs and PAs also play an active role in educating patients about their therapies, administrations, and dosages. Apply knowledge of the phamacokinetic profiles of insulin formulations to develop an individualized insulin regimen from diagnosis to ongoing management, ensuring achievement of HbA1c goals and reducing the risk of complications. Evaluate the place of new and emerging insulin formulations in the treatment armamentarium for diabetes. Incorporate effective strategies for providing patient education and psychological support for patients with diabetes who are initiating or continuing insulin therapy.

1.0 Free Contact Hours for Nurse Practitioners which includes 0.25 Free Hours of Pharmacology

Expires 11/25/17

Addressing the Contraception Needs of Adolescents and Young Adults

2016-09-27T12:00:00.000-04:00

Addressing the Contraception Needs of Adolescents and Young Adults- Despite improvements in the safety and tolerability of Long Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs), as well as current guideline recommendations, recent studies suggest that physician attitudes have been slow to change. Physicians' concerns regarding the use of LARCs may reduce patient counseling regarding this option, which in turn will limit a patient's knowledge regarding LARC use and safety and as a consequence result in underuse. These findings suggest that there is a significant unmet need for educational interventions targeting health providers concerning the safety of LARCs for young and nulliparous women which may play an important role in increasing access to LARCs for this population. Describe the rate of unintended pregnancy in the United States. Identify evidence-based guidelines about contraceptive eligibility criteria. Describe contraception counseling utilizing a shared decision making framework. Counsel patients about a range of contraception options including method initiation and management of common side effects. Discuss the safety and efficacy of long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC) including IUDs and implants. List clinician and patient contraception related resources. Consider systems practices which can affect contraceptive initiation and continuation.

1.0 Free Contact Hours for Nurse Practitioners which includes 0.5 free hours of pharmacology

This course also offers Free CME for Physicians

Expires 7/31/17

Improving Management of Depression in Primary Care

2016-09-05T11:52:00.000-04:00

Improving the Management of Depression in Primary Care: Insights into Diagnosis and Treatment- Major depressive disorder (MDD) is one of the most common mental disorders diagnosed in the United States, with an estimated 16% of US adults experiencing MDD at some point during their lifetimes. According to the American Medical Association, chronic depression is often untreated and, on average, patients with depression receive the recommended quality of care only 58% of the time. The goal of this activity is to expand knowledge, skills, and competency among nurse practitioners (NPs) in diagnosing and selecting optimal individualized therapy for adults with MDD, ultimately helping to achieve the best possible patient outcomes. Summarize guideline changes in the new Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, that impact the diagnosis and assessment of MDD. Assess the severity and risks of depression at the time of diagnosis. Summarize current evidence for efficacy and safety of new therapies recently approved for the treatment of depression. Develop customized treatment regimens for adults with depression, considering medication efficacy and safety, drug interactions, dosing options, and patient comorbidities. Explain the benefits of using rating scales to assess patient response to depression treatment and medication side effects.

1.0 Free CEUs for Nurse Practitioners which includes 0.5 Free Pharmacology Hours

Expires 6/1/18

Rehab and the Obese Patient

2016-08-05T12:21:00.001-04:00

Changing Health Behavior: The Challenge of the Rehab Patient- As the obesity epidemic progresses, healthcare professionals should look toward educational forums to learn about the most modern advances in research, treatment, and best business practices to improve the quality of life for individuals who are obese and overweight. Learn addiction-related strategies that can be used to improve weight loss outcomes. Describe the clinical characteristics and effective treatments for eating disorders.

1.0 Free CEUs for Nurse Practitioners

ADHD in Adolescents: Early Morning Impairments

2016-06-09T11:54:00.000-04:00

Early Morning Functioning Impairments in Children and Adolescents With ADHD- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in children, which affected approximately 11% of children aged 4 to 17 years of age (6.4 million) in 2011. ADHD is often diagnosed in childhood and lasts into adulthood in approximately 65% to 75% of cases. A recent systematic literature review suggests that the annual incremental costs for the disorder in the United States are between $143 and $266 billion dollars. Despite improvements with the drug delivery systems of ADHD medications, early morning functioning (EMF) remains an issue in many children with ADHD. According to a recent survey, the majority of caregivers reported early morning ADHD symptoms (74%) and EMF impairment (76%) as moderate to severe (ADHD symptom score: 5-10). Parents reported that they often: felt overwhelmed and exhausted (41%); raised their voice more (37%); and felt constantly stressed (30%) as a result of their child’s ADHD symptoms during the EMR.4 It was also noted that 79% of caregivers had discussed early morning impairments with their child’s physician. In light of these figures, a number of coping strategies, including nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic interventions, have been developed. Therefore, it is important for healthcare professionals to become more aware that the early morning is problematic for children with ADHD and their families. Discuss the concept of early morning ADHD symptoms and related functional impairments as a significant unmet clinical need in school-age children diagnosed with ADHD. Examine scales to measure before-school behaviors. Discuss current nonpharmacologic strategies for coping with early morning ADHD symptoms in school-age children. Discuss existing and emerging medications for managing early morning ADHD symptoms in school-age children.

1.0 Free CEUs for Nurse Practitioners which includes 0.2 Hours of Pharmacology

Expires 1/20/17

This activity is supported by an educational grant from Ironshore Pharmaceuticals & Development, Inc.

Free Pharmacology Hours- Treatment Options for Familial Hypercholesterolemia

2016-05-18T12:24:00.000-04:00

Emerging Treatment Options for Familial Hypercholesterolemia- Review the underlying genetic mutations and the role of genetic screening for heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH) and homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HoFH) as it relates to diagnosis and treatment of familial hypercholesterolemia and in response to statins, ezetimibe and proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin 9 (PCSK9) monoclonal antibody treatment. Discuss the emerging evidence on genetic mutations and their potential therapeutic significance in the development of novel low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) targets. Identify the relationship of LDL-C reduction and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk reduction including the risk in HeFH and HoFH. Discuss the clinical presentation and implications of HeFH and the use of optimal LDL-C target goals for these patients based on current consensus recommendations.

1.0 Free CEUs for Nurse Practitioners which includes 0.75 Hours of Pharmacology

Expires 6/11/17

Free Pharmacology Hours- Stroke Prevention in Patients with A Fib

2016-05-05T12:00:00.000-04:00

Stroke Prevention in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation- This course addresses the the factors contributing to strokes in patients with atrial fibrillation, how to assess for stroke and bleeding risk, the pharmacology of oral anticoagulants, and individualization of treatment. Discuss the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and risk factors for stroke in atrial fibrillation as they relate to prevention. Use validated risk assessment tools to assess and stratify patients with atrial fibrillation for the risk of stroke in order to individualize decisions regarding the appropriateness of stroke prophylaxis. Describe approved anticoagulants, including their mechanism of action, safety, efficacy, indications, and contraindications. Use validated tools to assess bleeding risk in patients treated with anticoagulants. Implement appropriate primary and secondary pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic interventions for stroke prevention tailored to risk stratification and patient characteristics, with knowledge of clinical guidelines, recommendations, and considerations of special populations.

1.25 Free CEUs for Advanced Practice Nurses which includes 1.25 Hours of Pharmacology

Expires 1/31/18

This program is funded through an educational grant from Boehringer Ingelheim

Diagnosing and Managing Bipolar Disorder

2016-04-27T13:09:00.000-04:00

The Front-Line in the Diagnosis and Clinical Management of Bipolar Disorder- Bipolar disorder is characterized by the cyclical occurrence of elevated (manic or hypomanic) and depressed mood states. The illness, which includes the bipolar I and bipolar II subtypes, exacts a heavy toll in terms of quality of life, functioning, morbidity, comorbidity, and mortality. A special challenge for diagnosis and treatment is bipolar depression. A number of studies suggest that patients with bipolar disorder are misdiagnosed on initial presentation, and most often with major depressive disorder. Engaging the patient and family in treatment of bipolar disorder is key to improving patient outcomes. A collaborative relationship with bipolar patients can improve adherence to medications and induce an open, honest dialogue about symptoms and level of functioning. isorders and unipolar from bipolar depression. Engage patients with bipolar disorder in an ongoing discussion of pharmacological treatment and regularly review for efficacy and side effects. Regularly assess all patients with bipolar disorder for metabolic issues related to psychiatric medications and recommend lifestyle changes to improve health.

1.5 Free CEUs for Nurse Practitioners which includes 0.75 Pharmacology Hours

Expires 3/4/17

Management of Idiopathic Overactive Bladder in the Elderly

2016-03-31T12:56:00.000-04:00

Best Practice Recommendations for Management of Overactive Bladder in the Elderly -Advanced practice gerontological nurses are uniquely positioned to effectively and safely manage elderly patients presenting with symptoms of idiopathic overactive bladder (OAB) and impact outcomes throughout their continuum of care. This activity, based on a recent live symposium, aims to provide nurses and nurse practitioners who manage elderly patients with a better understanding of the differential diagnosis of OAB, goals of therapy, benefits and limitations of behavioral and pharmacologic interventions, and expected outcomes from treatment. Emphasis is placed on effective communication techniques and patient counseling strategies to enhance adherence to OAB therapy, minimize treatment-related adverse effects, and improve treatment satisfaction. Employ effective communication strategies for screening and diagnosis of overactive bladder (OAB). Describe the benefits and specific limitations of current management approaches for OAB, including behavioral modifications and other approved interventions, in elderly patients. Manage treatment-emergent adverse events and therapy modification to improve clinical outcomes in elderly patients. List strategies to improve adherence to treatments in the elderly patient population. Detail the pros and cons of currently prescribed OAB medication in the elderly population.

1.5 Free CME for Nurse Practitioners

Expires 11/3/16

Free Pharmacology Hours- Managing Sleep Disturbances in Psych Patients

2016-03-17T14:52:00.000-04:00

Managing Sleep Disturbances in Psychiatric Patients- Discuss the diagnosis and management of sleep disorders in psychiatric patients. Individualize treatment choices, giving consideration to efficacy, safety, long-term data, and unique patient characteristics. Formulate appropriate treatment regimens considering the emergence of new investigative agents. Provide appropriate care and counsel for patients and their families.

1.0 Free AANP CEUs for Nurse Practitioners which includes 0.36 Hours of Pharmacology

Expires 8/18/16

Supported by independent educational grants from Forest, Jazz, Lundbeck, Merk, Sunovion, and Takeda Pharmaceuticals

Free CEU for Nurse Midwives- Intrapartum Speculum Training

2016-02-25T14:05:00.000-05:00

Intrapartum Sterile Speculum Training for Registered Nurses- The American College of Nurse-Midwives presents a free continuing education credit program designed to teach intrapartum nurses the basic skills needed to perform a sterile speculum examination. These skills can be used when gathering vaginal samples which have been ordered to help make a clinical diagnosis. The samples are used to rule out ruptured membranes, evaluate for fetal fibronectin and/or obtain specimens for vaginal cultures.

1.0 Free CEUs for Nurse Practitioners

Menopause: Hormonal vs Nonhormonal Therapy

2016-02-11T11:46:00.000-05:00

Menopausal Symptoms: Comparative Effectiveness of Therapies- Discuss the comparative effectiveness of different treatments for reducing menopausal symptoms and improving quality of life. Discuss the effects of menopausal hormone therapy preparations on coronary heart disease, stroke, or venous thromboembolism; gallbladder disease; osteoporotic fractures; or endometrial, breast, colorectal, and ovarian cancer. Discuss the effects of nonhormone therapy preparations on coronary heart disease, stroke, or venous thromboembolism; gallbladder disease; osteoporotic fractures; and endometrial, breast, colorectal, and ovarian cancer. Identify factors that affect the applicability of the results of the review.

1.0 Free CEUs for Nurse Practitioners

Expires 9/23/17

Pharmacology Basics- 4 Free Hours of Pharmacology

2016-02-07T12:11:00.000-05:00

Pharmacology Basics- This course will describe the basic principles of pharmacology, pharmacokinetic processes including absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion, as well as several drug classes and some of the commonly seen drugs within those classes.
The participant will be familiar with the role of receptors related to medications.
The participant will identify the four components of pharmacokinetics.
The participant will be familiar with how medications are classified.
The participant will identify some medications from some commonly seen classifications, as well as their actions, uses, adverse reactions and side effects, contraindications, and implications.

4.0 Free CEUs for Nurse Practitioners which includes 4.0 Hours of Pharmacology

Expires 2/25/16

Provided by:

Obesity & Pregnancy: Best Practices to Improve Quality of Life

2016-01-26T12:41:00.000-05:00

Pregnancy and Obesity- As the obesity epidemic progresses, healthcare professionals should look toward educational forums to learn about the most modern advances in research, treatment, and best business practices to improve the quality of life for individuals who are obese and overweight. To identify and modify potential early risk factors for health promotion and disease prevention. To understand extra-genetic mechanisms as determinants of obesity in women and children. Provide insights into recent studies related to weight management during pregnancy.

1.0 Free CEUs for Nurse Practitioners

Expires 12/15/16

Current Evidence for Tailoring Antithrombotic Therapy in AF- Free Pharmacology Hours

2016-01-12T12:00:00.000-05:00

Stroke Prevention in Atrial Fibrillation: Current Evidence for Tailoring Antithrombotic Therapy- Nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia encountered in clinical practice and afflicts more than 3 million people in the United States. AF is an independent risk factor for ischemic stroke severity, recurrence, and mortality. Individuals with AF have a 4 to 5 times greater risk for ischemic stroke. The National Stroke Association emphasizes the importance of treatment to prevent stroke in patients with AF, noting that patients tend to experience worse outcomes from AF-related stroke compared with non-AF-related stroke. Although most AF-related strokes can be prevented with antithrombotic therapy, many patients with AF are not receiving optimal evidence-based care for stroke prevention. Patients with AF whose clinicians are not up to date with the current best practices for stroke prevention are at risk of experiencing suboptimal outcomes Apply evidence-based scoring assessments to properly risk stratify patients with atrial fibrillation, considering stroke and bleeding risks. Discuss key differences in the pharmacologic profiles of the new oral anticoagulants that may impact selection of a specific agent for an individual patient with atrial fibrillation. Select the correct dosage for oral anticoagulant therapy for patients with atrial fibrillation and renal impairment. Develop individualized guideline-based antithrombotic treatment regimens for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation.

1.0 Free CEUs for Nurse Practitioners which includes 0.8 Free Hours of Pharmacology

Expires 12/18/17

Preterm Infant Nutrition: Evidence-Based Manangement

2015-12-23T12:02:00.002-05:00

Evidence-Based Nutrition Management of Preterm Infants- Determine adequate protein requirements for preterm infants. Apply necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) preventative strategies in the neonatal intensive care unit. Adjoin current controversies in NEC with new treatment modalities.

1.5 Free CEUs for Nurse Practitioners

Expires 6/14/17

PediatricNutritionCE This activity is supported by an educational grant from the Mead Johnson Pediatric Nutrition Institute.

Naloxone: Universal Antidote for Opioid OD- Free Pharmacology Hours

2015-12-07T12:39:00.000-05:00

Naloxone: The Universal Antidote for Opioid Overdose- Every day, approximately 113 people die from a drug overdose in the United Sates. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 74% of the 22,810 deaths attributed to drug overdoses in 2011 involved opioid pain relievers or prescription painkillers.[i] Moreover, in 2007, prescription opioid abuse cost the United States 55.7 billion dollars, an amount that includes job loss and incarceration. Overdoses are far more likely to occur in otherwise healthy individuals, and they are a leading cause of accidental death in young people. The morbidity and mortality of this disease are disproportionally high in terms of economic cost and emotional burden on survivors and their families. Given the immense toll that this disease takes on the lives of patients, caregivers, and society, it is critical for healthcare providers to understand how to screen for potentially at-risk patients, quickly diagnose those who are overdosing, and effectively treat patients when they see them in the hospital or ambulatory setting. -Naloxone, the antidote to opioid drugs, is an extremely effective agent with minimal side-effects. However, this medication is not being used as effectively as necessary, and it is not as readily available as it should be to save lives. In addition, healthcare providers do not know enough about naloxone, and patients who are overdosing outside a hospital setting do not always have timely access to the medication. Identify patients at increased risk for opioid overdose and diagnose patients presenting with drug overdoses, including those patients with respiratory and central nervous system depression. Evaluate recently developed treatments for opioid overdoses and their potential use by at-risk individuals and their families. Educate patients and caretakers about how to administer naloxone, how to re-evaluate the patient as the naloxone wears off, and how to inform emergency personnel of known or suspected opioid overdose.

1.0 Free AANP CEUs for Nurse Practitioners which includes 0.5 Hours of Pharmacology

Expires 10/30/16