Description
SAVC and AVNAT Approved Course
This flexi CPD course is aimed at vet nurses and vet technicians in general practice and is available on-demand with unlimited lifetime access. Each module consists of a tutorial, quiz and further reading articles
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 module 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.
Module 1
Canine Hypothyroidism
- 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
Module 2
Canine and Feline Diabetes
- 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
Module 3
Feline Acromegaly
- 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
Module 4
Feline Hyperthyroidism
- 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
Module 5
Canine Hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing’s Disease)
- 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
Module 6
Canine Hypoadrenocorticism (Addison’s Disease)
- 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 available immediately following purchase, with unlimited lifetime access and will provide a total of:
10 hours of CPD (UK)
10 points (Australia and New Zealand)
10 points (South Africa – SAVC Accreditation Number AC/2322/25)
Release date: Feb 2025
Storm C –
This course was really informative. I liked how each week covered a different endocrine disorder which helped make it easier to learn the different conditions without getting confused. The pre tutorial research was also a good idea as it made you think about the topic before going ahead with the tutorial.
Rated: Intermediate / Advanced level
Lydia T –
The tutorials were clear and easy to follow. The tutor was enthusiastic and explained complex processes really well. I found this course really interesting and it has definitely improved my understanding of these illnesses. I will be able to apply what I have learnt to my nursing care and nurse clinics with owners.
Rated: Introduction / Intermediate level
Vicki H –
Good level of information and bitesize assignments allowed for great learning and time management
Rated: Intermediate level
Sarah G –
Very informative and goes in depth to give a much better understanding of endocrine diseases. Great to help with improving patient nursing and nursing clinics. Great range of learning sources and techniques.
Rated: Introduction / Intermediate level
Stacey P –
Very in-depth and encourages active listening and note taking which for me can sometimes be a struggle! Amazing tutorials – love the note taking app you provide plus the speaker was very clear and concise. The work provided utilises the information learned and really shows how much you have taken away. 10/10
Rated: Introduction / Intermediate / Advanced
Jade S –
Great course, really informative. The tutorials are done really well and lots of information. Enjoyed doing the quizzes, assignments and further reading. I thought the course was really well done and good mix of things to do
Rated: Intermediate level
Kirsty W –
Great! nice layout and lots of support throughout the training.
Rated: Intermediate level
Rebecca S –
Fantastic!
Rated: Intermediate level
Rebekah H –
Overall I found this course incredibly enjoyable! The written assignments were challenging and although I did not participate in the forums they were very interesting to read, especially with the experienced cases. The tutorials were easy to follow and informative and the extra reading resources were excellent. I will continue to read over what I have learnt from this course, it has given me a great grounding to develop on my knowledge. I hope to rejoin a similar course and be able to join in more with the discussions.
Abi R –
Very good range of endocrine diseases discussed.