Subject Medicine
november
Course Details
In recent years there has been a marked interest in identifying the causes of gastrointestinal disease in companion animals; the path to diagnosis has progressed with the identification
Course Details
In recent years there has been a marked interest in identifying the causes of gastrointestinal disease in companion animals; the path to diagnosis has progressed with the identification of serological biomarkers and more access to endoscopy within general practice. Novel protein diets have been developed by veterinary food companies resulting in a positive effect on outcome in combination with pharmaceuticals for some animals.
The veterinary nurse plays a key role investigation, treatment and client support for these often, chronic cases. Having an enhanced level of knowledge on the pathophysiology and treatment options, together with a firm understanding of the diagnostic process is paramount to patient recovery.
After completing this 6 week online course, the participants will have a greater knowledge and understanding of the basic principles of gastrointestinal disease which they can apply regularly in practice.
Week 1
Diseases of the Upper Gastrointestinal Tract
Upper gastrointestinal tract (UGIT) anatomy refresher
UGIT hereditary and acquired abnormalities
Investigation of vomiting and regurgitation
Sedation and general anaesthesia considerations
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
List the main structures of the UGIT
Describe the normal function and processes of the UGIT
Identify the difference between vomiting and regurgitation and the common causes
Understand the diagnostic approach to patients with UGIT symptoms
Explain the reasons why patients with UGIT disease are higher risk for investigative procedures
Evaluate current methods used in practice to sedate patients with UGIT disease and analyse if modifications to practice would be beneficial
Week 2
Diseases of the Lower Gastrointestinal Tract
Lower gastrointestinal tract (LGIT) anatomy refresher
LGIT pathophysiology
Mechanisms and classification of diarrhoea
Investigative process for LGIT symptoms
Patient preparation for GI endoscopy
Supportive treatment for patients with LGIT
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
List the main structures of the LGIT
Describe the normal function and processes of the LGIT
Differentiate diarrhoea types and common causes
Understand the diagnostic approach to patients with LGIT symptoms
Evaluate current care plans used in practice to prepare patients for endoscopy and analyse if modifications to practice would be beneficial
Summarise the key therapeutic treatments for patients with LGIT
Week 3
Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Anatomy and functions of the gastroscope
Cleaning and sterilising procedures
Endoscopy sourcing, storage, and auditing
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Label the main components and list the functions of a gastroscope
Explain the bedside procedure for cleaning and then sterilising the gastroscope
Select the correct biopsy tools and materials for optimal sampling and histological value
Evaluate practice protocols to standardise in line with current best practice
Week 4
Interventional Endoscopy
Foreign body removal
Balloon dilatation
Injection of steroids and anti-inflammatory medications
Endoscopically placed feeding tubes
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
List the various interventional uses of gastrointestinal endoscopy
Select the correct forcep tool for foreign body retrieval
Describe the ballooning technique use for oesophageal strictures
Explain the indications, risks and technique for placing a PEG tube
Week 5
Nursing Patients with Gastrointestinal Disease
Nursing basics and care plans
Pain and emesis management
Oesophageal tube placement
Assisted feeding methods
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
List the essential care requirements for nursing patients with GI disease
Identify symptoms of pain and nausea
Compare patient assessment tools to monitor status and benchmark interventional treatment
Calculate energy requirements and feeding volumes for tube feeds
Week 6
Enteropathy Therapeutics and Nutrition
Terminology of diseases
Pathways and mechanisms of enteropathies
Medications and therapies
EBVM current information
Dietary needs
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Differentiate between terms associated with chronic enteropathies
Analyse the treatments allocated to different types of enteropathy
Refer to updated resources and guidelines to further inform their knowledge and subsequently refer to it at a later date
Explain what a diet trial is
List the types of dietary allergen there are
The course will be fully tutored by Nicola Read and Gina Parkes and will consist of 15 hours of CPD given in various formats, including tutorials, tasks, case scenarios, forum discussions and quizzes. This course is tutored for 6 weeks, followed by a two week extension of untutored ‘catch up’ time, before the course officially ends.
All delegates will then have unlimited lifetime access to the learning material for future reference
Time
October 23 (Monday) - December 1 (Friday)
Location
Online
Speakers for this event
-
Gina Parkes
Gina Parkes
DipAVN(Small Animal), AFHEA, RVN
DipAVN(Small Animal), AFHEA, RVN
-
Nicola Read
Nicola Read
PgC (Oncology Veterinary Nursing), DipAVN (Med), RVN
Nicola qualified in 2000 from a well established small animal general practice in North West London where she also gained the D32/33 Assessor qualification. She spent a year at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home in 2001 to gain experience in a charity based organisation and then moved to the Queen Mother Hospital, Royal Veterinary College in 2002, in order to study for the RCVS advanced diploma. In June 2008 she became the Head Medicine Nurse at the Royal Veterinary College and is currently working towards the American Internal Medicine Veterinary Technicians Certificate. Her clinical interests are endocrinology, gastroenterology, oncology and immune-mediated disease.
PgC (Oncology Veterinary Nursing), DipAV...
Course Details
Course Summary Feeling tachycardic at the sight of an ECG wave? This 50 minute eCPD tutorial leaves all the big words at the door to help you really understand what
Course Details
Course Summary
Feeling tachycardic at the sight of an ECG wave?
This 50 minute eCPD tutorial leaves all the big words at the door to help you really understand what is happening when we look at an ECG waveform. Throughout the presentation you are encouraged to pause the recording, allowing yourself time to apply the knowledge and theory explained in the early parts of the presentation. This practical, self-paced learning method is almost certain to have you walking away feeling more confident in ECG interpretation.
Waveform physiology
Use and attachment of leads
Common arrhythmias and their causes
Course Tutor
Tawny Kershaw BSc (Hons), RVN, DipVNZS, AFHEA
Swift Veterinary Referrals
Course Length
The course is worth 50 minutes of CPD for UK delegates and 1 AVNAT point for Australian and New Zealand delegates
The course is provided with unlimited lifetime access for on-demand learning
Course Notes
Unfortunately, course notes are not available with this tutorial
Release date: Nov 2023
Time
november 1 (Wednesday) - 30 (Thursday)
Location
Online
Speaker
Tawny KershawBSc (Hons), RVN, DipVNZS, AFHEA Swift Veterinary Referrals
Course Details
Week 1 The Nurse's Role in Medical Clinics - When, Why and How? Why set up a monitoring clinic? How to set up a monitoring clinic Equipment needed for a monitoring
Course Details
Week 1
The Nurse’s Role in Medical Clinics – When, Why and How?
Why set up a monitoring clinic?
How to set up a monitoring clinic
Equipment needed for a monitoring clinic
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Understand the importance of nurses being involved in the long term monitoring of cats with medical diseases
Visualise how they would be able to set up this type of clinic in their own practice
Feel ready to learn and revise common chronic feline disease and become up to date with the latest evidence
Week 2
Managing Chronic Kidney Disease
What is CKD?
What effects does CKD have on the body?
How to monitor CKD
Treatment aims for CKD
IRIS staging
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Understand the pathophysiology of CKD
Identify parameters used to monitor the CKD patient
Understand the IRIS staging scheme
Understand what treatments are appropriate at which stage of disease
Use evidence based medicine to help educate your clients
Week 3
Managing Diabetes Mellitus
What is diabetes mellitus?
How to monitor diabetes mellitus
Treatment aims for diabetes mellitus
Owner support for cats with diabetes mellitus
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Understand the pathophysiology of diabetes mellitus
Understand the difference between cats and dogs with diabetes mellitus
Understand how to monitor diabetes mellitus and the importance of blood glucose curves
Understand what treatments are available for diabetes mellitus
Counsel owners of cats with diabetes mellitus
Week 4
Managing Degenerative Joint Disease
How prevalent is DJD in cats?
How to assess cats for DJD
Treatments for DJD
How to engage owners in the treatment and monitoring of DJD
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Understand the prevalence of DJD in cats and use that information in the nursing treatment and handling of the cat
Assess cats using a variety of methods both in the clinic and at home for DJD
Understand the different treatments available for DJD
Educate owners about the treatments and how the owner can assess the cat to
improve compliance
The course will be fully tutored by Suzanne Rudd and will consist of 10 hours of CPD given in various formats, including tutorials, tasks, case studies, forum discussions and quizzes. This course is tutored for 4 weeks, followed by a two week extension of untutored ‘catch up’ time, before the course officially ends.
All delegates will then have unlimited lifetime access to the learning material for future reference
Time
November 13 (Monday) - December 8 (Friday)
Location
Online
Speaker
Suzanne RuddDipAVN(Medical) RVN The Feline Centre, University of Bristol
december
Course Details
In recent years there has been a marked interest in identifying the causes of gastrointestinal disease in companion animals; the path to diagnosis has progressed with the identification
Course Details
In recent years there has been a marked interest in identifying the causes of gastrointestinal disease in companion animals; the path to diagnosis has progressed with the identification of serological biomarkers and more access to endoscopy within general practice. Novel protein diets have been developed by veterinary food companies resulting in a positive effect on outcome in combination with pharmaceuticals for some animals.
The veterinary nurse plays a key role investigation, treatment and client support for these often, chronic cases. Having an enhanced level of knowledge on the pathophysiology and treatment options, together with a firm understanding of the diagnostic process is paramount to patient recovery.
After completing this 6 week online course, the participants will have a greater knowledge and understanding of the basic principles of gastrointestinal disease which they can apply regularly in practice.
Week 1
Diseases of the Upper Gastrointestinal Tract
Upper gastrointestinal tract (UGIT) anatomy refresher
UGIT hereditary and acquired abnormalities
Investigation of vomiting and regurgitation
Sedation and general anaesthesia considerations
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
List the main structures of the UGIT
Describe the normal function and processes of the UGIT
Identify the difference between vomiting and regurgitation and the common causes
Understand the diagnostic approach to patients with UGIT symptoms
Explain the reasons why patients with UGIT disease are higher risk for investigative procedures
Evaluate current methods used in practice to sedate patients with UGIT disease and analyse if modifications to practice would be beneficial
Week 2
Diseases of the Lower Gastrointestinal Tract
Lower gastrointestinal tract (LGIT) anatomy refresher
LGIT pathophysiology
Mechanisms and classification of diarrhoea
Investigative process for LGIT symptoms
Patient preparation for GI endoscopy
Supportive treatment for patients with LGIT
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
List the main structures of the LGIT
Describe the normal function and processes of the LGIT
Differentiate diarrhoea types and common causes
Understand the diagnostic approach to patients with LGIT symptoms
Evaluate current care plans used in practice to prepare patients for endoscopy and analyse if modifications to practice would be beneficial
Summarise the key therapeutic treatments for patients with LGIT
Week 3
Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Anatomy and functions of the gastroscope
Cleaning and sterilising procedures
Endoscopy sourcing, storage, and auditing
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Label the main components and list the functions of a gastroscope
Explain the bedside procedure for cleaning and then sterilising the gastroscope
Select the correct biopsy tools and materials for optimal sampling and histological value
Evaluate practice protocols to standardise in line with current best practice
Week 4
Interventional Endoscopy
Foreign body removal
Balloon dilatation
Injection of steroids and anti-inflammatory medications
Endoscopically placed feeding tubes
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
List the various interventional uses of gastrointestinal endoscopy
Select the correct forcep tool for foreign body retrieval
Describe the ballooning technique use for oesophageal strictures
Explain the indications, risks and technique for placing a PEG tube
Week 5
Nursing Patients with Gastrointestinal Disease
Nursing basics and care plans
Pain and emesis management
Oesophageal tube placement
Assisted feeding methods
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
List the essential care requirements for nursing patients with GI disease
Identify symptoms of pain and nausea
Compare patient assessment tools to monitor status and benchmark interventional treatment
Calculate energy requirements and feeding volumes for tube feeds
Week 6
Enteropathy Therapeutics and Nutrition
Terminology of diseases
Pathways and mechanisms of enteropathies
Medications and therapies
EBVM current information
Dietary needs
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Differentiate between terms associated with chronic enteropathies
Analyse the treatments allocated to different types of enteropathy
Refer to updated resources and guidelines to further inform their knowledge and subsequently refer to it at a later date
Explain what a diet trial is
List the types of dietary allergen there are
The course will be fully tutored by Nicola Read and Gina Parkes and will consist of 15 hours of CPD given in various formats, including tutorials, tasks, case scenarios, forum discussions and quizzes. This course is tutored for 6 weeks, followed by a two week extension of untutored ‘catch up’ time, before the course officially ends.
All delegates will then have unlimited lifetime access to the learning material for future reference
Time
October 23 (Monday) - December 1 (Friday)
Location
Online
Speakers for this event
-
Gina Parkes
Gina Parkes
DipAVN(Small Animal), AFHEA, RVN
DipAVN(Small Animal), AFHEA, RVN
-
Nicola Read
Nicola Read
PgC (Oncology Veterinary Nursing), DipAVN (Med), RVN
Nicola qualified in 2000 from a well established small animal general practice in North West London where she also gained the D32/33 Assessor qualification. She spent a year at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home in 2001 to gain experience in a charity based organisation and then moved to the Queen Mother Hospital, Royal Veterinary College in 2002, in order to study for the RCVS advanced diploma. In June 2008 she became the Head Medicine Nurse at the Royal Veterinary College and is currently working towards the American Internal Medicine Veterinary Technicians Certificate. Her clinical interests are endocrinology, gastroenterology, oncology and immune-mediated disease.
PgC (Oncology Veterinary Nursing), DipAV...
Course Details
Week 1 The Nurse's Role in Medical Clinics - When, Why and How? Why set up a monitoring clinic? How to set up a monitoring clinic Equipment needed for a monitoring
Course Details
Week 1
The Nurse’s Role in Medical Clinics – When, Why and How?
Why set up a monitoring clinic?
How to set up a monitoring clinic
Equipment needed for a monitoring clinic
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Understand the importance of nurses being involved in the long term monitoring of cats with medical diseases
Visualise how they would be able to set up this type of clinic in their own practice
Feel ready to learn and revise common chronic feline disease and become up to date with the latest evidence
Week 2
Managing Chronic Kidney Disease
What is CKD?
What effects does CKD have on the body?
How to monitor CKD
Treatment aims for CKD
IRIS staging
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Understand the pathophysiology of CKD
Identify parameters used to monitor the CKD patient
Understand the IRIS staging scheme
Understand what treatments are appropriate at which stage of disease
Use evidence based medicine to help educate your clients
Week 3
Managing Diabetes Mellitus
What is diabetes mellitus?
How to monitor diabetes mellitus
Treatment aims for diabetes mellitus
Owner support for cats with diabetes mellitus
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Understand the pathophysiology of diabetes mellitus
Understand the difference between cats and dogs with diabetes mellitus
Understand how to monitor diabetes mellitus and the importance of blood glucose curves
Understand what treatments are available for diabetes mellitus
Counsel owners of cats with diabetes mellitus
Week 4
Managing Degenerative Joint Disease
How prevalent is DJD in cats?
How to assess cats for DJD
Treatments for DJD
How to engage owners in the treatment and monitoring of DJD
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Understand the prevalence of DJD in cats and use that information in the nursing treatment and handling of the cat
Assess cats using a variety of methods both in the clinic and at home for DJD
Understand the different treatments available for DJD
Educate owners about the treatments and how the owner can assess the cat to
improve compliance
The course will be fully tutored by Suzanne Rudd and will consist of 10 hours of CPD given in various formats, including tutorials, tasks, case studies, forum discussions and quizzes. This course is tutored for 4 weeks, followed by a two week extension of untutored ‘catch up’ time, before the course officially ends.
All delegates will then have unlimited lifetime access to the learning material for future reference
Time
November 13 (Monday) - December 8 (Friday)
Location
Online
Speaker
Suzanne RuddDipAVN(Medical) RVN The Feline Centre, University of Bristol
january
Course Details
Of the numerous cancers that affect our feline companions, lymphoma, squamous cell carcinoma, soft tissue sarcoma and mammary tumours are the most frequently diagnosed in the veterinary clinic. This 4 week
Course Details
Of the numerous cancers that affect our feline companions, lymphoma, squamous cell carcinoma, soft tissue sarcoma and mammary tumours are the most frequently diagnosed in the veterinary clinic.
This 4 week course dedicates a week per subject, where we explore the risk factors associated with each of these neoplasms and investigate the methods used to acquire a diagnosis. Treatment options will be discussed with particular detail placed on medical and surgical management techniques that can be applied to general practice and specialist nursing alike.
After completing this online course, participants will have a greater knowledge of these common diseases, enabling understanding of the prognosis and treatment goals; ultimately broadening communication and practical skills in the subject area.
This course is particularly suitable for nurses who have experience in oncology and are looking to broaden their knowledge and compliments the ‘Common Canine Cancer’ course with particular focus on feline friendly care. For nurses in general practice, the course ‘Introduction to Oncology’ may be more suitable.
Week 1
Mammary Tumours
Mammary tumours are a common tumour in cats which are often malignant, yet a small percentage are benign. Early detection and intervention can have a positive outcome and some patients go on to live disease-free lives, others require continuous treatment and monitoring.
Presentation and behaviour of mammary tumours
Diagnosis and staging
Treatment modalities and monitoring considerations
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Explain the potential causes of mammary tumours in cats
List what investigative procedures may be necessary to secure a diagnosis and what safety factors should be observed when sampling masses
Understand which treatment modalities are most useful for which form of the disease
Describe the patient and client care considerations when managing cases of feline mammary tumours
Week 2
Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphocytes and/or lymphoid tissue, which is present in many locations within the body; presentation and treatment of these cases is dependant on location. This week we will cover:
Manifestation of feline lymphoma and categories of disease
Diagnosis, staging and prognostic indicators
Treatment options for feline lymphoma
Chemotherapy protocols, client expectations and how to create a feline friendly environment
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
List the common manifestations of feline lymphoma and the patient groups most affected
Understand the value of staging and monitoring the disease
Describe the subtypes of feline lymphoma and the difference in treatment approaches
Explain the rationale of a multimodal chemotherapy protocol and how it may impact on prognosis
Analyse personal skill set and determine how you could support feline patients with lymphoma using your practice facilities
Week 3
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common form of head and mouth cancer in cats; the behaviour of this neoplasm is sometimes unpredictable and can be very invasive. On week three we discuss the presentation, investigation and treatment options available for these patients and look at some practices which are novel to veterinary medicine.
Presentation, diagnosis and staging of squamous cell carcinoma, including lymph node mapping
Treatment options and impact on prognosis
Surgical interventions, nursing support and rehabilitation
Introduction to electrochemotherapy and photodynamic therapy
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Describe the different imaging techniques used to evaluate feline squamous cell carcinoma
List treatment options and prognostic indicators for feline squamous cell carcinoma
Understand the mechanism of action behind novel techniques for feline squamous cell carcinoma
Describe the common surgical interventions and post-operative patient considerations
Week 4
Soft Tissue Sarcoma
Feline injection site sarcoma (FISS) is one of the most common soft tissue sarcomas of cats. The disease may present as a minor mass to the owner but often this is just the tip of the iceberg. Week 4 looks at FISS in more detail and brings the courses learning materials all together in this last week
Soft tissue sarcoma pathophysiology overview
Diagnostic and staging processes
Treatment options, radiation and surgical management
Adjuvant (post-operative) chemotherapy and restaging
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Describe the diagnostic approach to determining cancer diagnosis and tumour burden
Explain typical neoplastic behaviour of FISS and the impact of intervention on survival time
Understand the fundamental reasoning for adjuvant chemotherapy and the options for post-operative care
The course will be fully tutored by Nicola Read, and will consist of 10 hours of CPD given in various formats, including tutorials, tasks, case studies, forum discussions and quizzes. This course is tutored for 4 weeks, followed by a two week extension of untutored ‘catch up’ time, before the course officially ends.
All delegates will then have unlimited lifetime access to the learning material for future reference
Time
January 8 (Monday) - February 2 (Friday)
Location
Online
Speaker
Nicola ReadDipAVN (Medical), PgCert Veterinary Oncology, AFHEA, RVN Head Oncology Nurse, Royal Veterinary College
Course Details
Week 1 From Conception to Weaning Parent health prior to conception and how this may affect pregnancy, parturition, and offspring Nutritional requirements during pregnancy Nutritional adaptations required during lactation Neonate nutritional requirements,
Course Details
Week 1
From Conception to Weaning
Parent health prior to conception and how this may affect pregnancy, parturition, and offspring
Nutritional requirements during pregnancy
Nutritional adaptations required during lactation
Neonate nutritional requirements, including how to hand feed effectively
Weaning
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Discuss how nutrition affects reproduction and key adaptations that are required
Have a clear understanding of how to promote health through nutrition during lactation
Identify the essential nutritional requirements for neonates
Understand how to hand feed neonates correctly
Week 2
Growth
Optimal growth
Effects of neutering
Nutritional considerations for large breed puppies
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Correctly use growth charts to map growth
Identify when growth is not ideal and the necessary changes that are required to maintain a healthy weight to adulthood
Have a good understanding of the nutritional adaptations that will be required at the point of neutering
Week 3
Adult Maintenance
Promoting health in adults
Maintaining a stable weight
Treat management
Recognise key aspects of feeding working dogs
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Understand nutritional requirements for adults and how these must be adapted for each pet’s circumstance
Identify points of concern and to make appropriate recommendations
Reflect on how nutritional requirement for working dog may differ from pet dogs
Week 4
Golden Oldies – Senior Pets
Defining ‘senior’ age as an individual process
Understanding age related changes and how these require nutritional adaptation
Environmental considerations for pets in their senior years
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Confidently assess the needs of a senior pet
Identify environmental changes that may be required
Understanding of the dynamic changes to nutrition that are required for seniors to better support the pet and pet owner
Week 5
Diet Choices
Examination of the pet food label
Introduction to alternative diet types and how to have conversations with pet owners
How to manage pets fed an alternative diet within a hospital environment
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Identify all key information on a pet food label and how this is used to determine a feeding amount
Have a broad understanding of the pros and cons associated with alternative diets that are now commonly fed
Appreciate methods for assessing the suitability of alternative diets and how to improve safety
Confidently talk to the pet owner who wish to feed an alternative diet type
Week 6
Maintaining an Ideal Weight
Assess ideal weight through body condition scoring and muscle condition scoring
Simple steps to ensure obesity does not occur, and what can help if it does
How to calculate a feeding quantity of dry, wet or mixed diet types
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Confidently be able to body condition score and muscle condition score to identify an ideal weight and good health
Understand how simple food management in the home can prevent obesity occurring
Thoroughly understand calculations for determining a feeding amount to prevent over, or under feeding
This course will be fully tutored by Georgia Woods-Lee and will consist of 15 hours of CPD given in various formats, including tutorials, tasks, case studies, forum discussions and quizzes. This course is tutored for 6 weeks, followed by a two week extension of untutored ‘catch up’ time, before the course officially ends.
All delegates will then have unlimited lifetime access to the learning material for future reference
Time
January 22 (Monday) - March 1 (Friday)
Location
Online
Speaker
Georgia Woods-LeeBSc(Hons), RVN, Cert CFVHNut, VTS (Nutrition) WEIGHT MANAGEMENT CLINIC NURSE, UNIVERSITY OF LIVERPOOL
february
Course Details
Of the numerous cancers that affect our feline companions, lymphoma, squamous cell carcinoma, soft tissue sarcoma and mammary tumours are the most frequently diagnosed in the veterinary clinic. This 4 week
Course Details
Of the numerous cancers that affect our feline companions, lymphoma, squamous cell carcinoma, soft tissue sarcoma and mammary tumours are the most frequently diagnosed in the veterinary clinic.
This 4 week course dedicates a week per subject, where we explore the risk factors associated with each of these neoplasms and investigate the methods used to acquire a diagnosis. Treatment options will be discussed with particular detail placed on medical and surgical management techniques that can be applied to general practice and specialist nursing alike.
After completing this online course, participants will have a greater knowledge of these common diseases, enabling understanding of the prognosis and treatment goals; ultimately broadening communication and practical skills in the subject area.
This course is particularly suitable for nurses who have experience in oncology and are looking to broaden their knowledge and compliments the ‘Common Canine Cancer’ course with particular focus on feline friendly care. For nurses in general practice, the course ‘Introduction to Oncology’ may be more suitable.
Week 1
Mammary Tumours
Mammary tumours are a common tumour in cats which are often malignant, yet a small percentage are benign. Early detection and intervention can have a positive outcome and some patients go on to live disease-free lives, others require continuous treatment and monitoring.
Presentation and behaviour of mammary tumours
Diagnosis and staging
Treatment modalities and monitoring considerations
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Explain the potential causes of mammary tumours in cats
List what investigative procedures may be necessary to secure a diagnosis and what safety factors should be observed when sampling masses
Understand which treatment modalities are most useful for which form of the disease
Describe the patient and client care considerations when managing cases of feline mammary tumours
Week 2
Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphocytes and/or lymphoid tissue, which is present in many locations within the body; presentation and treatment of these cases is dependant on location. This week we will cover:
Manifestation of feline lymphoma and categories of disease
Diagnosis, staging and prognostic indicators
Treatment options for feline lymphoma
Chemotherapy protocols, client expectations and how to create a feline friendly environment
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
List the common manifestations of feline lymphoma and the patient groups most affected
Understand the value of staging and monitoring the disease
Describe the subtypes of feline lymphoma and the difference in treatment approaches
Explain the rationale of a multimodal chemotherapy protocol and how it may impact on prognosis
Analyse personal skill set and determine how you could support feline patients with lymphoma using your practice facilities
Week 3
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common form of head and mouth cancer in cats; the behaviour of this neoplasm is sometimes unpredictable and can be very invasive. On week three we discuss the presentation, investigation and treatment options available for these patients and look at some practices which are novel to veterinary medicine.
Presentation, diagnosis and staging of squamous cell carcinoma, including lymph node mapping
Treatment options and impact on prognosis
Surgical interventions, nursing support and rehabilitation
Introduction to electrochemotherapy and photodynamic therapy
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Describe the different imaging techniques used to evaluate feline squamous cell carcinoma
List treatment options and prognostic indicators for feline squamous cell carcinoma
Understand the mechanism of action behind novel techniques for feline squamous cell carcinoma
Describe the common surgical interventions and post-operative patient considerations
Week 4
Soft Tissue Sarcoma
Feline injection site sarcoma (FISS) is one of the most common soft tissue sarcomas of cats. The disease may present as a minor mass to the owner but often this is just the tip of the iceberg. Week 4 looks at FISS in more detail and brings the courses learning materials all together in this last week
Soft tissue sarcoma pathophysiology overview
Diagnostic and staging processes
Treatment options, radiation and surgical management
Adjuvant (post-operative) chemotherapy and restaging
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Describe the diagnostic approach to determining cancer diagnosis and tumour burden
Explain typical neoplastic behaviour of FISS and the impact of intervention on survival time
Understand the fundamental reasoning for adjuvant chemotherapy and the options for post-operative care
The course will be fully tutored by Nicola Read, and will consist of 10 hours of CPD given in various formats, including tutorials, tasks, case studies, forum discussions and quizzes. This course is tutored for 4 weeks, followed by a two week extension of untutored ‘catch up’ time, before the course officially ends.
All delegates will then have unlimited lifetime access to the learning material for future reference
Time
January 8 (Monday) - February 2 (Friday)
Location
Online
Speaker
Nicola ReadDipAVN (Medical), PgCert Veterinary Oncology, AFHEA, RVN Head Oncology Nurse, Royal Veterinary College
Course Details
Week 1 From Conception to Weaning Parent health prior to conception and how this may affect pregnancy, parturition, and offspring Nutritional requirements during pregnancy Nutritional adaptations required during lactation Neonate nutritional requirements,
Course Details
Week 1
From Conception to Weaning
Parent health prior to conception and how this may affect pregnancy, parturition, and offspring
Nutritional requirements during pregnancy
Nutritional adaptations required during lactation
Neonate nutritional requirements, including how to hand feed effectively
Weaning
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Discuss how nutrition affects reproduction and key adaptations that are required
Have a clear understanding of how to promote health through nutrition during lactation
Identify the essential nutritional requirements for neonates
Understand how to hand feed neonates correctly
Week 2
Growth
Optimal growth
Effects of neutering
Nutritional considerations for large breed puppies
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Correctly use growth charts to map growth
Identify when growth is not ideal and the necessary changes that are required to maintain a healthy weight to adulthood
Have a good understanding of the nutritional adaptations that will be required at the point of neutering
Week 3
Adult Maintenance
Promoting health in adults
Maintaining a stable weight
Treat management
Recognise key aspects of feeding working dogs
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Understand nutritional requirements for adults and how these must be adapted for each pet’s circumstance
Identify points of concern and to make appropriate recommendations
Reflect on how nutritional requirement for working dog may differ from pet dogs
Week 4
Golden Oldies – Senior Pets
Defining ‘senior’ age as an individual process
Understanding age related changes and how these require nutritional adaptation
Environmental considerations for pets in their senior years
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Confidently assess the needs of a senior pet
Identify environmental changes that may be required
Understanding of the dynamic changes to nutrition that are required for seniors to better support the pet and pet owner
Week 5
Diet Choices
Examination of the pet food label
Introduction to alternative diet types and how to have conversations with pet owners
How to manage pets fed an alternative diet within a hospital environment
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Identify all key information on a pet food label and how this is used to determine a feeding amount
Have a broad understanding of the pros and cons associated with alternative diets that are now commonly fed
Appreciate methods for assessing the suitability of alternative diets and how to improve safety
Confidently talk to the pet owner who wish to feed an alternative diet type
Week 6
Maintaining an Ideal Weight
Assess ideal weight through body condition scoring and muscle condition scoring
Simple steps to ensure obesity does not occur, and what can help if it does
How to calculate a feeding quantity of dry, wet or mixed diet types
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Confidently be able to body condition score and muscle condition score to identify an ideal weight and good health
Understand how simple food management in the home can prevent obesity occurring
Thoroughly understand calculations for determining a feeding amount to prevent over, or under feeding
This course will be fully tutored by Georgia Woods-Lee and will consist of 15 hours of CPD given in various formats, including tutorials, tasks, case studies, forum discussions and quizzes. This course is tutored for 6 weeks, followed by a two week extension of untutored ‘catch up’ time, before the course officially ends.
All delegates will then have unlimited lifetime access to the learning material for future reference
Time
January 22 (Monday) - March 1 (Friday)
Location
Online
Speaker
Georgia Woods-LeeBSc(Hons), RVN, Cert CFVHNut, VTS (Nutrition) WEIGHT MANAGEMENT CLINIC NURSE, UNIVERSITY OF LIVERPOOL
Course Details
As RVN’s we can be involved with assisting the surgery for dental treatments, but more often our role within the dentistry suite falls into the role of monitoring
Course Details
As RVN’s we can be involved with assisting the surgery for dental treatments, but more often our role within the dentistry suite falls into the role of monitoring and assisting with the anaesthesia plan for our dentistry procedures. This can be a daunting prospect with many factors to consider. This course will help reduce stress and increase confidence and positivity within the dental suite.
As RVN’s we are also in the perfect position to ensure a high standard of post operative care is provided to our patients, both within the hospital and when they are discharged into the care of their owners.
Week 1
Dentistry Analgesia
Different analgesia drugs available
Dose selection
Routes of administration
Drug combinations
Local nerve blocks
Sides effects of drugs
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Assist the veterinary surgeon in selecting appropriate analgesic drugs for different oral surgeries
Be aware of potential side effects of these drugs
Alongside the veterinary surgeon, create a tailored drug protocol for each patient to go home with
Comfortably calculate analgesic drugs at low doses
Be aware of what drugs are suitable as a combination
Understand the exclusion or reduced dose of some drugs, regarding co-morbidities
Use pain scoring methods and understand what analgesia the patient may need
Week 2
Anaesthesia – Airway Security and Hypothermia
How to maintain a patent airway
Patient positioning
To cuff or not to cuff?
Causes of hypothermia
Negative effects of hypothermia
Preventing and treating hypothermia
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Understand different styles of ET tubes and their benefits and potential negatives
Understand appropriate ET tube cuff pressures and why this is so integral to protecting the airway
Appreciate techniques to protect the airway
Know the gold standard method to move patients under anaesthesia, whilst protecting their airway
List the common causes of hypothermia
Understand the negative effects of hypothermia
Have practical knowledge on how to prevent and treat hypothermia
Understand the risk of using some heating devices
Week 3
Anaesthesia – Managing Hypotension
Causes of hypotension
Negative side effects of hypotension
How to obtain accurate blood pressure reading
How to prevent hypotension
Fluid therapy
Anaesthesia drug choices
The use of vasopressors and anticholinergics
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Obtain accurate blood pressure readings for cats and dogs under general anaesthesia for dentistry
Understand the limitations of blood pressure measurements and trouble shoot potential problems
Know what is deemed as an appropriate blood pressure reading under general anaesthetic
Know which drugs may interfere with maintaining blood pressure
Understand what could happen to our patients if left hypotensive
Feel more confident, alongside the veterinary surgeon, in making a treatment plan tailored to each individual patient, to treat any hypotensive episodes
Week 4
Post-operative Care
Immediate post op care once extubated
Care for patients in the recovery ward
Discharge instructions
Post op care at home
Post op checks
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Maintain and monitor a patent airway in the immediate post-operative period
Understand the importance of close monitoring in recovery
Create a post-operative plan tailored to each individual patient
Feel confident to create discharge instructions for your patient
Confidently communicate with the owner about the anaesthesia and surgery the patient has received
Perform a thorough physical post-operative check, including the whole patient
Understand the best dental care an owner can provide at home, along with alternative options if these goals cannot be met
The course will be fully tutored by Stacey Parker and will consist of 10 hours of CPD given in various formats, including tutorials, tasks, case studies, forum discussions and quizzes. This course is tutored for 4 weeks, followed by a two week extension of untutored ‘catch up’ time, before the course officially ends.
All delegates will then have unlimited lifetime access to the learning material for future reference
Time
February 5 (Monday) - March 1 (Friday)
Location
Online
Speaker
Stacey ParkerISFM Cert(FN), NCert (Anaes) & (Dent), AdvNCert (Anaes), LVNP (Anaes), RVN Dental Nurse, Perry Dental Referrals
Course Details
Nurses at both general practice and referral level will commonly nurse patients with endocrine disease throughout their career. Understanding the basic concepts of endocrinology means nurses can apply
Course Details
Nurses at both general practice and referral level will commonly nurse patients with endocrine disease throughout their career. Understanding the basic concepts of endocrinology means nurses can apply knowledge to their care in order to better support their patients.
Having an understanding of the pathophysiology of common endocrine diseases, as well as the tests performed means that we can become a useful support in clinical decision making, which subsequently improves job satisfaction and allows us to nurse to our full potential.
Each week we will look at a different endocrine disease in the cat or the dog. Following the course you will have refreshed your underpinning knowledge of the endocrine system in the canine and feline patient to include the chemical messenger and feedback systems, the types of endocrine diseases commonly affecting our patients, the tests we use and how these diseases impact our nursing care.
Week 1
Canine Hypothyroidism
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Identify the clinical signs of canine hypothyroidism
Explain the role of hormones in the body
Explain the relationship between TSH and thyroid hormones
Describe what canine hypothyroidism is and why it occurs
Describe ways to support the client owning a canine with hypothyroidism
Week 2
Canine and Feline Diabetes
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Name the 3 types of cell that contribute to the endocrine function of the pancreas
Name the two main types of insulin used in cats and dogs
Describe the reason dogs become diabetic
Describe the reason cats become diabetic
Explain some differences in the nursing considerations you would give cats compared to dogs and why
Week 3
Feline Acromegaly
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Identify 3 major hormones that are lost when you remove the anterior pituitary gland
Explain how feline hypersomatotropism occurs
Discuss how excess growth hormone results in acromegaly
Explain the nursing considerations for a hypophysectomy patient
Explain the support that a client might need for a cat with FeHS
Week 4
Feline Hyperthyroidism
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Discuss the clinical signs that a hyperthyroid cat might present with
Explain the effects of too much thyroid hormone on the body
Demonstrate an understanding of the treatment options available for the disease in order to support the client with the hyperthyroid cat
Describe the most commonly used test to diagnose feline hyperthyroidism and what that test is measuring
Explain the difference between free T4 and total T4
Week 5
Canine Hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing’s Disease)
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Explain the reasons why canine hyperadrenocorticism (HAC) occur
Identify the clinical signs associated with a canine HAC patient
Discuss some of the common tests available for HAC and the reasons for their use
Identify 3 main forms of treatment for the canine HAC patient
Demonstrate an understanding of the nursing considerations for the patient with HAC
Week 6
Canine Hypoadrenocorticism (Addison’s Disease)
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Explain the causes of canine hypoadrenocorticism
Identify some of the clinical signs that a patient may present with and why
Discuss the treatment options available to the client with the hypoadrenocorticism pet
Demonstrate an understanding of the nursing considerations for a canine with hypoadrenocorticism
Name some of the tests that a vet may ask you to carry out on the suspected hypoadrenocorticism patient and discuss why they may be required
The course will be fully tutored by Gina Parkes and will consist of 15 hours of CPD given in various formats, including tutorials, tasks, case scenarios, forum discussions and quizzes. This course is tutored for 6 weeks, followed by a two week extension of untutored ‘catch up’ time, before the course officially ends.
All delegates will then have unlimited lifetime access to the learning material for future reference
Time
February 5 (Monday) - March 15 (Friday)
Location
Online
Speaker
Gina ParkesDipAVN(Small Animal), PgCert(Ved Ed), FHEA, RVN Head Medicine Nurse, Royal Veterinary College
Course Details
It is estimated that one in three companion animals will die of cancer, which makes understanding the disease and caring for these animals and their families common within
Course Details
It is estimated that one in three companion animals will die of cancer, which makes understanding the disease and caring for these animals and their families common within our role. Despite this demand, there is limited space in the veterinary nurse curriculum dedicated to cancer and so here we explore the subject in more practical detail.
This course discusses how cancer manifests in the companion animal, how a cancer diagnosis is made and how chemotherapy treatments are administered. Throughout the weekly sessions there are activities and opportunities to test your learning and evaluate how you could introduce some of the practical elements into your practice.
After completing this 4 week online course, the participants will have a greater knowledge and understanding of the basic principles of veterinary oncology and be able to apply this to their own working practices.
Week 1
What is Cancer?
Pathophysiology of neoplasia
Common causes of cancer in animals
Classifications of cancer types
The difference between benign and malignant disease
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Understand the alterations in the cell cycle that results in neoplastic disease
List the different types of cancer based on tissue origin
Describe the different causes of cancer in small animals
Explain how benign disease is different to malignant disease and the risks associated with both conditions
Identify higher risk categories of patients and analyse the research available in line with evidence-based medicine
Week 2
Diagnosis and Prognosis
Fine needle aspirates
Cancer cytology
Cancer staging
Specialist tests for cancer
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
List fine needle aspirate methods to optimise cytological yield
Evaluate a cytology sample in-house to ensure sample is of diagnostic quality
Understand the commonly preferred methods for staging patients with neoplasia
Describe the types of specialist tests required to further categorise cancer
Analyse personal skill set and determine if any modifications to current practice would be beneficial
Week 3
Common Chemotherapy Agents
Overview of common chemotherapy drugs
Administering chemotherapy
Chemotherapy safety
Adverse effects with administering chemotherapy
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Understand how chemotherapy agents work
Explain how to correctly administer chemotherapy agents
List what safety factors should be observed when administering chemotherapy in practice
Describe how to manage an extravasation injury and reduce risk of chemotherapy associated nausea and vomiting
Evaluate practice protocols to standardise and promote best practice in line with most current information
Week 4
Client and Patient Support
Introduction to oncology clinics
Nadir checks
Managing adverse effects following chemotherapy administration
The Cancer Journey
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Describe how and why a nadir check is performed
Identify common adverse effects associated with chemotherapy
Understand preventive and interventional treatment protocols for chemotherapy associated adverse effects
Explain the causes for likely outcome of treatment failure and the physiology behind this
Reflect over professional skill set and evaluate how you can further enhance your personal development to support clients of patients with cancer
The course will be fully tutored by Nicola Read and will consist of 10 hours of CPD given in various formats, including tutorials, tasks, case studies, forum discussions and quizzes. This course is tutored for 4 weeks, followed by a two week extension of untutored ‘catch up’ time, before the course officially ends.
All delegates will then have unlimited lifetime access to the learning material for future reference
Time
February 26 (Monday) - March 22 (Friday)
Location
Online
Speaker
Nicola ReadDipAVN (Medical), PgCert Veterinary Oncology, AFHEA, RVN Head Oncology Nurse, Royal Veterinary College
march
Course Details
Week 1 From Conception to Weaning Parent health prior to conception and how this may affect pregnancy, parturition, and offspring Nutritional requirements during pregnancy Nutritional adaptations required during lactation Neonate nutritional requirements,
Course Details
Week 1
From Conception to Weaning
Parent health prior to conception and how this may affect pregnancy, parturition, and offspring
Nutritional requirements during pregnancy
Nutritional adaptations required during lactation
Neonate nutritional requirements, including how to hand feed effectively
Weaning
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Discuss how nutrition affects reproduction and key adaptations that are required
Have a clear understanding of how to promote health through nutrition during lactation
Identify the essential nutritional requirements for neonates
Understand how to hand feed neonates correctly
Week 2
Growth
Optimal growth
Effects of neutering
Nutritional considerations for large breed puppies
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Correctly use growth charts to map growth
Identify when growth is not ideal and the necessary changes that are required to maintain a healthy weight to adulthood
Have a good understanding of the nutritional adaptations that will be required at the point of neutering
Week 3
Adult Maintenance
Promoting health in adults
Maintaining a stable weight
Treat management
Recognise key aspects of feeding working dogs
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Understand nutritional requirements for adults and how these must be adapted for each pet’s circumstance
Identify points of concern and to make appropriate recommendations
Reflect on how nutritional requirement for working dog may differ from pet dogs
Week 4
Golden Oldies – Senior Pets
Defining ‘senior’ age as an individual process
Understanding age related changes and how these require nutritional adaptation
Environmental considerations for pets in their senior years
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Confidently assess the needs of a senior pet
Identify environmental changes that may be required
Understanding of the dynamic changes to nutrition that are required for seniors to better support the pet and pet owner
Week 5
Diet Choices
Examination of the pet food label
Introduction to alternative diet types and how to have conversations with pet owners
How to manage pets fed an alternative diet within a hospital environment
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Identify all key information on a pet food label and how this is used to determine a feeding amount
Have a broad understanding of the pros and cons associated with alternative diets that are now commonly fed
Appreciate methods for assessing the suitability of alternative diets and how to improve safety
Confidently talk to the pet owner who wish to feed an alternative diet type
Week 6
Maintaining an Ideal Weight
Assess ideal weight through body condition scoring and muscle condition scoring
Simple steps to ensure obesity does not occur, and what can help if it does
How to calculate a feeding quantity of dry, wet or mixed diet types
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Confidently be able to body condition score and muscle condition score to identify an ideal weight and good health
Understand how simple food management in the home can prevent obesity occurring
Thoroughly understand calculations for determining a feeding amount to prevent over, or under feeding
This course will be fully tutored by Georgia Woods-Lee and will consist of 15 hours of CPD given in various formats, including tutorials, tasks, case studies, forum discussions and quizzes. This course is tutored for 6 weeks, followed by a two week extension of untutored ‘catch up’ time, before the course officially ends.
All delegates will then have unlimited lifetime access to the learning material for future reference
Time
January 22 (Monday) - March 1 (Friday)
Location
Online
Speaker
Georgia Woods-LeeBSc(Hons), RVN, Cert CFVHNut, VTS (Nutrition) WEIGHT MANAGEMENT CLINIC NURSE, UNIVERSITY OF LIVERPOOL
Course Details
As RVN’s we can be involved with assisting the surgery for dental treatments, but more often our role within the dentistry suite falls into the role of monitoring
Course Details
As RVN’s we can be involved with assisting the surgery for dental treatments, but more often our role within the dentistry suite falls into the role of monitoring and assisting with the anaesthesia plan for our dentistry procedures. This can be a daunting prospect with many factors to consider. This course will help reduce stress and increase confidence and positivity within the dental suite.
As RVN’s we are also in the perfect position to ensure a high standard of post operative care is provided to our patients, both within the hospital and when they are discharged into the care of their owners.
Week 1
Dentistry Analgesia
Different analgesia drugs available
Dose selection
Routes of administration
Drug combinations
Local nerve blocks
Sides effects of drugs
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Assist the veterinary surgeon in selecting appropriate analgesic drugs for different oral surgeries
Be aware of potential side effects of these drugs
Alongside the veterinary surgeon, create a tailored drug protocol for each patient to go home with
Comfortably calculate analgesic drugs at low doses
Be aware of what drugs are suitable as a combination
Understand the exclusion or reduced dose of some drugs, regarding co-morbidities
Use pain scoring methods and understand what analgesia the patient may need
Week 2
Anaesthesia – Airway Security and Hypothermia
How to maintain a patent airway
Patient positioning
To cuff or not to cuff?
Causes of hypothermia
Negative effects of hypothermia
Preventing and treating hypothermia
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Understand different styles of ET tubes and their benefits and potential negatives
Understand appropriate ET tube cuff pressures and why this is so integral to protecting the airway
Appreciate techniques to protect the airway
Know the gold standard method to move patients under anaesthesia, whilst protecting their airway
List the common causes of hypothermia
Understand the negative effects of hypothermia
Have practical knowledge on how to prevent and treat hypothermia
Understand the risk of using some heating devices
Week 3
Anaesthesia – Managing Hypotension
Causes of hypotension
Negative side effects of hypotension
How to obtain accurate blood pressure reading
How to prevent hypotension
Fluid therapy
Anaesthesia drug choices
The use of vasopressors and anticholinergics
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Obtain accurate blood pressure readings for cats and dogs under general anaesthesia for dentistry
Understand the limitations of blood pressure measurements and trouble shoot potential problems
Know what is deemed as an appropriate blood pressure reading under general anaesthetic
Know which drugs may interfere with maintaining blood pressure
Understand what could happen to our patients if left hypotensive
Feel more confident, alongside the veterinary surgeon, in making a treatment plan tailored to each individual patient, to treat any hypotensive episodes
Week 4
Post-operative Care
Immediate post op care once extubated
Care for patients in the recovery ward
Discharge instructions
Post op care at home
Post op checks
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Maintain and monitor a patent airway in the immediate post-operative period
Understand the importance of close monitoring in recovery
Create a post-operative plan tailored to each individual patient
Feel confident to create discharge instructions for your patient
Confidently communicate with the owner about the anaesthesia and surgery the patient has received
Perform a thorough physical post-operative check, including the whole patient
Understand the best dental care an owner can provide at home, along with alternative options if these goals cannot be met
The course will be fully tutored by Stacey Parker and will consist of 10 hours of CPD given in various formats, including tutorials, tasks, case studies, forum discussions and quizzes. This course is tutored for 4 weeks, followed by a two week extension of untutored ‘catch up’ time, before the course officially ends.
All delegates will then have unlimited lifetime access to the learning material for future reference
Time
February 5 (Monday) - March 1 (Friday)
Location
Online
Speaker
Stacey ParkerISFM Cert(FN), NCert (Anaes) & (Dent), AdvNCert (Anaes), LVNP (Anaes), RVN Dental Nurse, Perry Dental Referrals
Course Details
Nurses at both general practice and referral level will commonly nurse patients with endocrine disease throughout their career. Understanding the basic concepts of endocrinology means nurses can apply
Course Details
Nurses at both general practice and referral level will commonly nurse patients with endocrine disease throughout their career. Understanding the basic concepts of endocrinology means nurses can apply knowledge to their care in order to better support their patients.
Having an understanding of the pathophysiology of common endocrine diseases, as well as the tests performed means that we can become a useful support in clinical decision making, which subsequently improves job satisfaction and allows us to nurse to our full potential.
Each week we will look at a different endocrine disease in the cat or the dog. Following the course you will have refreshed your underpinning knowledge of the endocrine system in the canine and feline patient to include the chemical messenger and feedback systems, the types of endocrine diseases commonly affecting our patients, the tests we use and how these diseases impact our nursing care.
Week 1
Canine Hypothyroidism
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Identify the clinical signs of canine hypothyroidism
Explain the role of hormones in the body
Explain the relationship between TSH and thyroid hormones
Describe what canine hypothyroidism is and why it occurs
Describe ways to support the client owning a canine with hypothyroidism
Week 2
Canine and Feline Diabetes
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Name the 3 types of cell that contribute to the endocrine function of the pancreas
Name the two main types of insulin used in cats and dogs
Describe the reason dogs become diabetic
Describe the reason cats become diabetic
Explain some differences in the nursing considerations you would give cats compared to dogs and why
Week 3
Feline Acromegaly
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Identify 3 major hormones that are lost when you remove the anterior pituitary gland
Explain how feline hypersomatotropism occurs
Discuss how excess growth hormone results in acromegaly
Explain the nursing considerations for a hypophysectomy patient
Explain the support that a client might need for a cat with FeHS
Week 4
Feline Hyperthyroidism
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Discuss the clinical signs that a hyperthyroid cat might present with
Explain the effects of too much thyroid hormone on the body
Demonstrate an understanding of the treatment options available for the disease in order to support the client with the hyperthyroid cat
Describe the most commonly used test to diagnose feline hyperthyroidism and what that test is measuring
Explain the difference between free T4 and total T4
Week 5
Canine Hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing’s Disease)
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Explain the reasons why canine hyperadrenocorticism (HAC) occur
Identify the clinical signs associated with a canine HAC patient
Discuss some of the common tests available for HAC and the reasons for their use
Identify 3 main forms of treatment for the canine HAC patient
Demonstrate an understanding of the nursing considerations for the patient with HAC
Week 6
Canine Hypoadrenocorticism (Addison’s Disease)
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Explain the causes of canine hypoadrenocorticism
Identify some of the clinical signs that a patient may present with and why
Discuss the treatment options available to the client with the hypoadrenocorticism pet
Demonstrate an understanding of the nursing considerations for a canine with hypoadrenocorticism
Name some of the tests that a vet may ask you to carry out on the suspected hypoadrenocorticism patient and discuss why they may be required
The course will be fully tutored by Gina Parkes and will consist of 15 hours of CPD given in various formats, including tutorials, tasks, case scenarios, forum discussions and quizzes. This course is tutored for 6 weeks, followed by a two week extension of untutored ‘catch up’ time, before the course officially ends.
All delegates will then have unlimited lifetime access to the learning material for future reference
Time
February 5 (Monday) - March 15 (Friday)
Location
Online
Speaker
Gina ParkesDipAVN(Small Animal), PgCert(Ved Ed), FHEA, RVN Head Medicine Nurse, Royal Veterinary College
Course Details
It is estimated that one in three companion animals will die of cancer, which makes understanding the disease and caring for these animals and their families common within
Course Details
It is estimated that one in three companion animals will die of cancer, which makes understanding the disease and caring for these animals and their families common within our role. Despite this demand, there is limited space in the veterinary nurse curriculum dedicated to cancer and so here we explore the subject in more practical detail.
This course discusses how cancer manifests in the companion animal, how a cancer diagnosis is made and how chemotherapy treatments are administered. Throughout the weekly sessions there are activities and opportunities to test your learning and evaluate how you could introduce some of the practical elements into your practice.
After completing this 4 week online course, the participants will have a greater knowledge and understanding of the basic principles of veterinary oncology and be able to apply this to their own working practices.
Week 1
What is Cancer?
Pathophysiology of neoplasia
Common causes of cancer in animals
Classifications of cancer types
The difference between benign and malignant disease
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Understand the alterations in the cell cycle that results in neoplastic disease
List the different types of cancer based on tissue origin
Describe the different causes of cancer in small animals
Explain how benign disease is different to malignant disease and the risks associated with both conditions
Identify higher risk categories of patients and analyse the research available in line with evidence-based medicine
Week 2
Diagnosis and Prognosis
Fine needle aspirates
Cancer cytology
Cancer staging
Specialist tests for cancer
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
List fine needle aspirate methods to optimise cytological yield
Evaluate a cytology sample in-house to ensure sample is of diagnostic quality
Understand the commonly preferred methods for staging patients with neoplasia
Describe the types of specialist tests required to further categorise cancer
Analyse personal skill set and determine if any modifications to current practice would be beneficial
Week 3
Common Chemotherapy Agents
Overview of common chemotherapy drugs
Administering chemotherapy
Chemotherapy safety
Adverse effects with administering chemotherapy
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Understand how chemotherapy agents work
Explain how to correctly administer chemotherapy agents
List what safety factors should be observed when administering chemotherapy in practice
Describe how to manage an extravasation injury and reduce risk of chemotherapy associated nausea and vomiting
Evaluate practice protocols to standardise and promote best practice in line with most current information
Week 4
Client and Patient Support
Introduction to oncology clinics
Nadir checks
Managing adverse effects following chemotherapy administration
The Cancer Journey
Learning objectives
After completion of this week, participants should be able to:
Describe how and why a nadir check is performed
Identify common adverse effects associated with chemotherapy
Understand preventive and interventional treatment protocols for chemotherapy associated adverse effects
Explain the causes for likely outcome of treatment failure and the physiology behind this
Reflect over professional skill set and evaluate how you can further enhance your personal development to support clients of patients with cancer
The course will be fully tutored by Nicola Read and will consist of 10 hours of CPD given in various formats, including tutorials, tasks, case studies, forum discussions and quizzes. This course is tutored for 4 weeks, followed by a two week extension of untutored ‘catch up’ time, before the course officially ends.
All delegates will then have unlimited lifetime access to the learning material for future reference
Time
February 26 (Monday) - March 22 (Friday)
Location
Online
Speaker
Nicola ReadDipAVN (Medical), PgCert Veterinary Oncology, AFHEA, RVN Head Oncology Nurse, Royal Veterinary College
