Cardiac
       Animated Cardiac Development (2 contact hours for $8 )
     
  • Describe the primitive cardiac tube, and its early growth in length, shape and function.
  • Differentiate the early structures that transform the single chamber into the four chambered pump.
  • Associate the openings between the heart's early chambers, andthe walls that eventually separate those chambers.
  • Describe the tissue growth that separates venous from arterial blood flow.
  • Relate embyrological events to potential cardiac defects in the fetus and newborn.
  

       Cardiac Case Studies (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify each dyshythmia.
  • Apply basic dysrhythmia knowledge to analyze the case study.
  

       Children with Down Syndrome (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify specific neurological, sensory, orthopedic, cardiac, respiratory, autoimmune, mental health, dental, and oncological health risks of children with Down syndrome, and describe appropriate nursing interventions related to these risks.
  • Cite the health care guidelines established by the National Down Syndrome Society for children with Down syndrome, and highlight nursing interventions to address these guidelines.
  • Identify specific recommendations for feeding and nutrition in youngsters with Down syndrome.
  • Discuss appropriate weight management strategies and physical activities for children with Down syndrome.
  • Describe developmental issues specific to children with Down syndrome, and identify beneficial therapies.
  • Outline services provided to children with Down syndrome through the early intervention program.
  • Identify supports available to children with Down syndrome through the public educational system and state services.
  

       ECG Strip Identification and Evaluation (5 contact hours for $20 )
     
  • Describe the conduction system of the heart.
  • Discuss the sites of action potential generation and propagation through the cardiac conduction system.
  • Contrast the effect of parasympathetic with sympathetic stimulation of the cardiac conduction system.
  • Correlate the actions of the heart represented by the p wave, PR interval, QRS complex, and T wave..
  • Choose proper placement of electrodes based on ECG mechanics.
  • Calculate a heart rate from an ECG strip.
  • Analyze the following rhythms as they would appear on an ECG strip: a) Normal sinus rhythm, b) Sinus Bradycardia, c) Sinus tachycardia
  • Analyze the following dysrhythmias as would appear on an ECG strip: a) Atrial fibrillation, b) Premature ventricular contractions, c) Ventricular tachycardia, d) Ventricular fibrillation, e) Asystole/ventricular standstill.
  • List nursing interventions associated with common dysrhythmias.
  • Describe the nursing interventions intended to correct the effects of insufficient tissue perfusion associated with symptomatic dysrhythmias.
  

       Heart Failure: Prevalence, Assessment, Prevention (3 contact hours for $12 )
      Upon completion of this course, the learner will be able to:
  • Define heart failure
  • Compare the three classification systems for HF.
  • Identify the prevalence of HF in their individual state.
  • Assess patients for risk factors for developing HF.
  

       Heart Failure: Psychological constructs (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify the psychological constructs that increase the risk of heart failure (HF).
  • Discuss the identification of depression in nursing assessments.
  • Describe treatment options for depression and anxiety to prevent heart failure.
  • Describe a patient interaction that promotes positive well-being.
  • Apply principles of Positive Psychology to prevent HF in patients at risk for HF.
  • Discuss the relationship between an optimistic view and pessimistic one on quality of life of patient with HF.
  • List three quality of life measurements used with patients who have HF.
  

       Hemodynamic Monitoring: An Introduction (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Discuss cardiac physiology as it relates to blood flow and hemodynamic monitoring.
  • Understand the terminology and normal values associated with hemodynamic monitoring.
  • Review methods of noninvasive hemodynamic monitoring.
  • Describe components, and purposes, of invasive monitoring, including arterial, central venous and pulmonary artery catheters.
  • Discuss issues related to nursing care for patients with invasive hemodynamic catheters.
  

       High Altitude Sickness (2 contact hours for $8 )
     
  • Define high altitude sickness.
  • Describe the body’s acclimatization process.
  • List the 3 primary types of acute mountain sickness (AMS).
  • List 2 additional forms of altitude sickness.
  • Describe the symptoms of mild, moderate, and severe AMS.
  • Discuss symptoms and treatment for high altitude cerebral edema (HACE).
  • Discuss symptoms and treatment for high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE).
  • List 3 medications used to treat High Altitude Sickness.
  • Describe the use of portable hyperbaric chambers.
  • Discuss high altitude effects on pre-existing conditions and contraindications for travel to high altitudes.
  • List 5 preventive measures against developing high altitude sickness.
  

       Interpretation of ABGs: A FOUR STEP METHOD  (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Recognize normal values for pH, PaO2, PaCO2, SaO2 and HCO3.
  • Explain significance of these values.
  • Describe how oxygen and carbon dioxide are carried in the body and how they are measured.
  • Relate the pH scale to acidosis and alkalosis.
  • Discuss the respiratory and metabolic mechanisms and their role in controlling the body's acid-base balance.
  • Interpret basic arterial blood gas values and relate these values to patient conditions.
  • Suggest therapies for acid-base correction.
  • Be aware of other resources for in-depth ABG interpretation information.
  

       PSVT in the Pediatric Patient (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Define PSVT.
  • Specify prevalence of PSVT in pediatric population, and age of onset.
  • Compare EKG characteristics of pediatric PSVT with normal pediatric EKG.
  • Compare and contrast normal cardiac conduction with abnormal conduction processes.
  • Explain two common mechanisms of initiation of PSVT.
  • Explain mechanism of WPW in relation to initiation of PSVT and describe how WPW is diagnosed and treated in the pediatric patient.
  • List elements of clinicalpresentation of PSVT in the infant, child and adolescent. Compare well-compensated patient to one who is displaying severe symptoms.
  • Describe severalself-treatments a child and family can be taught to convert PSVT to normal rhythm.
  • Describe immediate life support and diagnostic measures necessary for the child with symptomatic PSVT.
  • Identify medications and other treatments used in treatment of PSVT, their dosages, indications and side-effects.
  • Compare and contrast developmental issues of child and pre-adolescent to older adolescent receiving treatment for PSVT. Specify recommended provider behaviors in each case.
  

       VSD: Effects, Assessment and Treatment (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Describe the anatomy of the normal heart with respect to blood flow to and from the lungs.
  • Compare cyanotic heart defects with acyanotic heart defects.
  • Specify prevalence of ventricular septal defect (VSD) in the population.
  • Compare and contrast the flow of blood in the normal heart with blood flow in the heart affected by VSD.
  • Describe early effects of large VSDs; include reasons why children with VSD are prone to congestive heart failure (CHF).
  • Distinguish later effects of large VSDs.
  • Explain why VSDs in newborns are often not evident.
  • List diagnostic tools used to assess VSD.
  • List symptoms of congestive heart failure (CHF) in children.
  • List 2 common medications for CHF management and discuss actions of each medication, pediatric dosages and precautions.
  • Describe a palliative therapy for VSD.
  • Describe definitive therapy for VSD including risks and benefits.
  

  Complete Course Listing
       Abusive Head Trauma / Shaken Baby Syndrome (3 contact hours for $12 )
      Upon completion of this course, the learner will be able to:
  • Present knowledge of the incidence, mortality and morbidity associated with Abusive Head Trauma (AHT).
  • Consider the leading precipitating factors in AHT when assessing a child.
  • Describe the mechanism of injury in Abusive Head Trauma
  • Report a child with signs and symptoms of AHT.
  • Initiate education of parents about preventing AHT.
  

       Addressing Colleague Impairment (3 contact hours for $12 )
      Upon completion of this course the learner will be able to:
  • Define nurse impairment
  • Recognize signs of impairment in co-workers and others
  • Describe the mandatory reporting law in Florida.
  • Identify options for treatment of impaired nurses.
  • Describe options for workplace education and support for the impaired nurse.
  • Visualize the procedures for reporting an impaired coworker in your workplace.
  

       Adolescent Substance Use (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Recognize the factors that make the topic of substance use so emotionally intense.
  • Recognize common behavioral signs of substance use.
  • Explain screening tools and brief interventions for adolescents.
  • Identify the effects of popular street drugs today.
  • Recognize the problems of poly drug use in youth.
  • Explain the relationship between mental illness and drug use.
  • Describe risk-taking as a developmental task.
  • Differentiate a temporary drug-related psychosis from a true psychosis.
  • Understand the possible consequences of failure to elicit information about drug use.
  • Explain the effects of drug/substance use on the developing brain.
  

       Advances in Multiple Sclerosis (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • To describe the epidemiology, incidence, and prevalence of MS.
  • To identify the etiology and pathophysiology of MS.
  • To state 4 disease course classifications for MS.
  • To describe 10 symptoms commonly experienced by persons with MS.
  • To identify 3 criteria used to establish a diagnosis of MS.
  • To recognize factors associated with more favorable and less favorable prognoses in MS.
  • To state principles of symptoms management for the following symptoms: fatigue, sensory problems and pain, sexual dysfunction, speech and swallowing problems, spasticity and tremor, visual disturbances and vertigo, bladder dysfunction, bowel dysfunction and cognitive impairment.
  • To state care management for acute MS exacerbations.
  • To identify 5 disease-modifying drugs used in MS therapy.
  • To state potential problems with adherence to disease-modifying therapy.
  • To describe psychosocial issues commonly experienced by persons with MS.
  • To state the impact of MS on family functioning.
  • To identify the incidence of MS associated depression.
  • To state principles of treatment for depression for persons with MS.
  • To state the goals of rehabilitation for a person with MS.
  • To identify roles of members of the rehabilitation team.
  • To recognize 5 challenges faced by the rehabilitation health team in providing care for persons with MS.
  

       Analgesic Drugs and Pain Management (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Recognize problems created by under-treating pain and identify individuals who are at greatest risk for having their pain under-treated.
  • Distinguish between nociceptive and neuropathic pain.
  • Identify 3 classifications of analgesic drugs.
  • Recognize how nonopioid analgesics differ from opioid analgesics.
  • Identify the mechanism of action, side effects, and maximum daily dose of acetaminophen.
  • Identify the relationship between aspirin and Reye’s syndrome.
  • Recognize the mechanism of action of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and distinguish between nonselective and selective NSAIDS.
  • Identify common side effects of NSAIDs, ways to prevent and/or manage them and advantages and disadvantages of combining NSAIDs with opioid analgesics.
  • Discuss the concept of "opioid dose sparing."
  • Identify the mechanism of action of mu agonist opioid analgesics.
  • Discuss the concept of "analgesic ceiling."
  • List 3 opioid analgesics that are commonly used to treat severe escalating acute pain.
  • Discuss guidelines for using opioid analgesics and the concept of "titrating to effect" as it applies to opioid analgesics.
  • Recognize the rationale for avoiding using meperidine as an analgesic.
  • Discuss the value of giving analgesics on an around-the-clock rather than on a PRN basis to manage continuous pain.
  • Recognize common side effects associated with opioid analgesics and ways to manage side effects.
  • Recognize ways to assess respiratory depression in patients receiving opioid analgesics.
  • Distinguish among the terms "tolerance," "physical dependency," and "addiction."
  • Identify the percentage of patients who become addicted to opioids when receiving them under medical supervision.
  • Discuss conditions under which the following administration routes for opioid analgesics are used: oral, rectal, subcutaneous, intramuscular, intravenous, transdermal, and intrathecal.
  • Recognize nursing considerations for patients receiving opioid analgesics and identify ways in which patients receiving opioids can minimize adverse effects.
  • Discuss the mechanism of action of antidepressants and anticonvulsants in relation to pain management.
  • Evaluate the effect of the CDC opioid guidelines on your nursing practice.
  

       Animated Cardiac Development (2 contact hours for $8 )
     
  • Describe the primitive cardiac tube, and its early growth in length, shape and function.
  • Differentiate the early structures that transform the single chamber into the four chambered pump.
  • Associate the openings between the heart's early chambers, andthe walls that eventually separate those chambers.
  • Describe the tissue growth that separates venous from arterial blood flow.
  • Relate embyrological events to potential cardiac defects in the fetus and newborn.
  

       Antiretroviral Drugs for HIV and AIDS (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Recognize how HIV affects the immune system.
  • Describe how HIV is transmitted.
  • Identify the signs and symptoms of HIV infection and AIDS.
  • List AIDS-defining illnesses.
  • Discuss how the following classifications of antiretroviral drugs work: Nucleoside analogue reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), Protease inhibitors (PIs), Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs), Fusion inhibitors (FIs)
  • Describe factors involved in starting HIV drug treatment.
  • Identify the goal of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART).
  • Discuss the use of antiretroviral drugs during pregnancy.
  • Identify "black box" warnings for specific antiretroviral drugs.
  • Identify the influence of food, herbs, and drugs on antiretroviral therapy.
  • Discuss 3 types of antiretroviral regimen failure.
  • State 2 reasons why adherence to antiretroviral drug therapy is crucial.
  • Recognize ways healthcare professionals can help patients adhere to antiretroviral therapy.
  • Identify the meaning of the following terms: HIV infection, AIDS, AIDS defining illnesses, CD4+T cells, DNA, RNA, Nucleic acid, Reverse transcriptase, retrovirus, viral load, HAART.
  

       Biological Warfare: Diseases As Weapons (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • State information related to preparing for an incidence of bioterrorism including clues to bioterrorism attack and the signs, symptoms, modes of transmission of high-priority agents of bioterrorism.
  • State information related to reporting of an incidence of bioterrorism, including the ways to contact the proper authorities and correctly document the incidence of bioterrorism.
  • State information related to the implementation of decontamination procedures, the identification of treatment locations and treatment personnel, the acquisition of treatment-related supplies, the awareness of any facility-organized response plans, and the development of a patient care plan to address the situation.
  • Recognize the potential threat of the release of biological diseases/agents to the United States population.
  • Describe Category A, B, and C biological treats as classified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
  • Identify 4 rationales for the assignment of biological diseases/agents to a Category A classification.
  • Identify the potential as a biological weapon, epidemiology, clinical course, and disease management for the following: Anthrax, Botulism, Plague, Smallpox, Tularemia, Viral hemorrhagic fever.
  

       Bladder Management after Spinal Cord Injury (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Understand the basic relationship between spinal cord injury and problems with the urinary system and bladder function.
  • Explain the basic process of normal urination, including the anatomy and physiology of the bladder and it's nervous system control.
  • List the neurological changes that take place with supraspinal, suprasacral and infrasacral spinal cord injuries.
  • Describe the optimal initial bladder management strategies immediately after spinal cord injury, including during spinal shock.
  • List the factors to be considered in bladder training and management during the long-term recovery period after SCI.
  • Anticipate the problem of Autonomic Dysreflexia (AD) after SCI, including triggering factors, signs and symptoms, treatment options and prevention.
  • Discuss the incidence of urinary tract infections after SCI, including causes, signs and symptoms, assessment issues, treatment and prevention.
  

       Breast Cancer in situ (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Define breast carcinoma in situ (DCIS and LCIS).
  • List the breast cancer in situ subtypes and grading.
  • Discuss risk factors of DCIS and LCIS.
  • Differentiate between different biopsy methods.
  • Describe the typical treatments.
  • Explain the factors that influence the prognosis of DCIS and LCIS.
  • Suggest several factors that may influence successful follow-up.
  • Instruct patients on ways to reduce anxiety.
  

       Cancer Chemotherapy (5 contact hours for $20 )
     
  • To recognize 3 goals for the use of cytotoxic drugs in cancer treatment.
  • To identify and describe the phases of the cell life cycle.
  • To identify the advantages of combining cytotoxic drugs in cancer treatment.
  • To recognize 5 classifications of alkylating drugs.
  • To identify four types of biologic biological therapies used in cancer treatment.
  • To describe adjuvant, induction, consolidation, and maintenance cytotoxic drug regimens in cancer treatment.
  • To identity potential toxicities for frequently used cytotoxic drugs.
  • To describe 3 types of vascular access devices for the administration of cytotoxic drugs.
  • To identify the effects of chemotherapy and management strategies related to the following body systems: Hematopoeitic, Integumentary, Gastrointestinal, Cardiovascular, Neurological, Respiratory, Reproductive, and Urological.
  • To recognize symptoms of hypersensitivity reactions associated with cancer chemotherapy.
  • To state 6 goals for patient/family education when a patient is receiving cytotoxic drugs.
  • To describe 3 phases of clinical trials in cancer drug development.
  • To identify cancer chemotherapy resources for health care professionals and patients.
  

       Cardiac Case Studies (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify each dyshythmia.
  • Apply basic dysrhythmia knowledge to analyze the case study.
  

       Cerebral Palsy in Children (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify key characteristics of the four classic presentations of cerebral palsy.
  • Describe prenatal and pregnancy-related risk factors associated with cerebral palsy.
  • Discuss diagnostic tests used to establish a diagnosis of cerebral palsy.
  • List physical disabilities, developmental delays, and medical issues commonly associated with cerebral palsy in children.
  • Outline currently-accepted treatment modalities for children with cerebral palsy.
  • State professional recommendations regarding complementary and alternative treatments for children with cerebral palsy.
  • Describe the developmental and educational systems established to meet the needs of children with cerebral palsy, and identify the role of nurses in these settings.
  • Discuss effective case management for children with cerebral palsy, including implications of special needs trusts.
  • Discuss prognostic indicators that impact quality of life for children with cerebral palsy.
  • Identify appropriate online and print resources for professionals who work with children with cerebral palsy.
  • List appropriate online and print references, as well as support agencies, for parents of children with cerebral palsy.
  

       Child Abuse (3 contact hours for $12 )
      This course includes descriptions of four aspects of child abuse: neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse and emotional abuse. Emphasis in this course will be on:
  • detection of abused children
  • assessment of injuries and signs and symptoms
  • causes
  • long term effects
  • preventive measures
  • parent education
  • laws, mechanisms and the duty of nurses to report child abuse
  

       Children with Down Syndrome (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify specific neurological, sensory, orthopedic, cardiac, respiratory, autoimmune, mental health, dental, and oncological health risks of children with Down syndrome, and describe appropriate nursing interventions related to these risks.
  • Cite the health care guidelines established by the National Down Syndrome Society for children with Down syndrome, and highlight nursing interventions to address these guidelines.
  • Identify specific recommendations for feeding and nutrition in youngsters with Down syndrome.
  • Discuss appropriate weight management strategies and physical activities for children with Down syndrome.
  • Describe developmental issues specific to children with Down syndrome, and identify beneficial therapies.
  • Outline services provided to children with Down syndrome through the early intervention program.
  • Identify supports available to children with Down syndrome through the public educational system and state services.
  

       Diabetes Treatments: Insulin and Oral Drugs (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • State the physiological effects of insulin.
  • Recognize basic elements of the pancreatic beta cell.
  • Compare and contrast insulin preparations based on source, type, and concentration.
  • Identify situations in which insulin is used.
  • Recognize indications for specific insulin products and insulin therapy regimens.
  • State appropriate administration and storage guidelines for insulin.
  • Recognize the advantages and disadvantages of an insulin pump.
  • Identify the mechanism of action, side effects, and clinical use of anti-diabetic oral agents.
  • Describe the use of combination therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes.
  • Recognize the potential impact of interactions with other drugs that are commonly used by persons with diabetes.
  

       Diabetes: Nutrition and Exercise Therapy (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • To recognize medical nutrition goals for people with diabetes.
  • To identify the role of insulin and food sources in nutrition.
  • To discuss the rationale underlying carbohydrate counting and exchange lists.
  • To state adjustments to meal planning that should be made during an acute illness.
  • To recognize the benefits of exercise for persons with diabetes.
  • To identify methods of minimizing exercise induced risk.
  • To state exercise safety recommendations for persons taking antidiabetes agents.
  

       Domestic Violence Update for Nurses (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Define domestic/intimate partner violence.
  • Discuss the prevalence of abuse, and consider the numbers of patients in his/her practice that may be either victims or perpetrators of domestic violence.
  • List four types of abuse.
  • Discuss assessment and screening procedures for determining whether a patient has any history of being either a victim, or a perpetrator, of domestic violence.
  • Explain the Florida state regulations in relation to reporting abuse for children, vulnerable adults, and adults in general.
  • Describe the steps for reporting abuse.
  • List at least 4 different intervention services in the state of Florida.
  • Describe how to provide vulnerable patients with information on, or how to refer such patients to, resources in the local community, such as: domestic violence centers and other advocacy groups, that
  

       ECG Strip Identification and Evaluation (5 contact hours for $20 )
     
  • Describe the conduction system of the heart.
  • Discuss the sites of action potential generation and propagation through the cardiac conduction system.
  • Contrast the effect of parasympathetic with sympathetic stimulation of the cardiac conduction system.
  • Correlate the actions of the heart represented by the p wave, PR interval, QRS complex, and T wave..
  • Choose proper placement of electrodes based on ECG mechanics.
  • Calculate a heart rate from an ECG strip.
  • Analyze the following rhythms as they would appear on an ECG strip: a) Normal sinus rhythm, b) Sinus Bradycardia, c) Sinus tachycardia
  • Analyze the following dysrhythmias as would appear on an ECG strip: a) Atrial fibrillation, b) Premature ventricular contractions, c) Ventricular tachycardia, d) Ventricular fibrillation, e) Asystole/ventricular standstill.
  • List nursing interventions associated with common dysrhythmias.
  • Describe the nursing interventions intended to correct the effects of insufficient tissue perfusion associated with symptomatic dysrhythmias.
  

       Evidence Based Fall Prevention  (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify and describe five types of falls
  • List the five levels of injuries scale established by National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators.
  • Describe the scope of inpatient fall injury and death that occurs in U.S. acute care hospitals.
  • List patient characteristics that are common in patients at high risk for fall.
  • Identify the major validated fall risk assessment tools used in hospitals.
  • Explain the components of a falls risk program to a patient.
  

       Experiences of Previously Unconscious Patients  (3 contact hours for $0 )
     
  • Describe the five states that occur during unconsciousness:
    • unconsciousness
    • inner awareness
    • perceived (or presumed) unconsciousness
    • distorted consciousness
    • exceptional or paranormal experiences.
  • Analyze how movement affects unconscious patients.
  • Describe clinical application of the information.
  

       Heart Failure: Prevalence and Prevention (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Describe the prevalence of heart failure.
  • Compare the three classification systems for HF.
  • Describe risk factors that predispose patients to HF.
  • Discuss the Renal Angiotensin Aldosterone System as a target for pharmacologic intervention.
  • Discuss pharmacologic and interventional strategies used to manage the effects of cardiac remodeling caused by hypertension, atherosclerosis, asymptomatic valve disease, substance abuse, etc
  • Contrast the effects of concentric remodeling with the effects of eccentric remodeling.
  

       Heart Failure: Psychological constructs (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify the psychological constructs that increase the risk of heart failure (HF).
  • Discuss the identification of depression in nursing assessments.
  • Describe treatment options for depression and anxiety to prevent heart failure.
  • Describe a patient interaction that promotes positive well-being.
  • Apply principles of Positive Psychology to prevent HF in patients at risk for HF.
  • Discuss the relationship between an optimistic view and pessimistic one on quality of life of patient with HF.
  • List three quality of life measurements used with patients who have HF.
  

       Hemodynamic Monitoring: An Introduction (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Discuss cardiac physiology as it relates to blood flow and hemodynamic monitoring.
  • Understand the terminology and normal values associated with hemodynamic monitoring.
  • Review methods of noninvasive hemodynamic monitoring.
  • Describe components, and purposes, of invasive monitoring, including arterial, central venous and pulmonary artery catheters.
  • Discuss issues related to nursing care for patients with invasive hemodynamic catheters.
  

       Hepatitis C: Prevention, Assessment & Treatment (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Describe hepatitis C (HCV) and the mode of transmission.
  • Discuss the history of HCV.
  • Discuss the infectious process and genotypes.
  • List and describe 6 to 9 risk factors for HCV.
  • List 4 different types of HCV assessment tests and applications.
  • List and describe 5 to 8 primary symptoms/complications of HCV.
  • List and describe 3 types of treatment for HCV.
  • List and describe 5 to 7 prevention methods.
  

       High Altitude Sickness (2 contact hours for $8 )
     
  • Define high altitude sickness.
  • Describe the body’s acclimatization process.
  • List the 3 primary types of acute mountain sickness (AMS).
  • List 2 additional forms of altitude sickness.
  • Describe the symptoms of mild, moderate, and severe AMS.
  • Discuss symptoms and treatment for high altitude cerebral edema (HACE).
  • Discuss symptoms and treatment for high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE).
  • List 3 medications used to treat High Altitude Sickness.
  • Describe the use of portable hyperbaric chambers.
  • Discuss high altitude effects on pre-existing conditions and contraindications for travel to high altitudes.
  • List 5 preventive measures against developing high altitude sickness.
  

       HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders (HAND) (2 contact hours for $8 )
     
  • Compare the AIDS/HIV statistics between the United States and the World, men and women, different races and sexual preferences.
  • Review symptoms of HIV related cognitive impairment.
  • List five intervention strategies for managing motor and behavior changes.
  • Describe the origin of, and management of, challenging behaviors exhibited by persons with HIV.
  • Identify the three cognitive symptoms of AIDS Dementia Complex.
  

       Hospice Care (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Contrast the patient services provided by hospice care with those provided by Palliative care.
  • Describe the roles and functions of a hospice care team members.
  • Describe the services provided under the Hospice Medicare Benefit.
  • Discuss the levels of pain and their treatments often experienced by hospice patients.
  • Discuss emotional, psychosocial, spiritual and family issues related to end of life.
  • Discuss the ethical foundation of the patient's right to refuse life-sustaining treatment.
  • Discuss the significance of a living will, health care surrogate, and durable power of attorney for hospice patients.
  

       Human Trafficking (4 contact hours for Free )
     
  • Describe the types of human trafficking.
  • Describe the incidence of human trafficking and laws in your own state.
  • IIdentify individuals at greater risk of being a victim of human trafficking.
  • Identify valid assessment tools and indicators for identifying a human trafficking victim.
  • Describe signs and symptoms indicate a person may be a victim of human trafficking.
  • Use hotlines for reporting human trafficking at the National Human Trafficking Resource Center.
  • Use appropriate referral centers for legal and social services.
  

       Hypo/Hyperthermia in the Elderly (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Recognize why elderly patients have changes in body temperature regulation that make them susceptible to both hypothermia and hyperthermia.
  • Identify specific risk factors for hypothermia in the elderly.
  • Describe signs and symptoms of hypothermia.
  • Identify treatment for hypothermia.
  • List ways in which the elderly and their families/caregivers can reduce the risk of hypothermia.
  • Identify specific risk factors for hyperthermia in the elderly.
  • Recognize 5 categories of drugs that can increase hyperthermia risk in elderly patients.
  • Distinguish between heat stress, heat fatigue, heat syncope, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
  • Describe signs and symptoms of hyperthermia.
  • Identify treatment for hyperthermia.
  • List ways in which the elderly and their families/caregivers can reduce the risk of hyperthermia.
  

       Infection Control (3 contact hours for $12 )
      Upon completion of this course, the participant will be able to:
  • Evaluate the scope, risk, suffering and cost of preventable healthcare associated infections (HAI).
  • Recognize and redress conditions that enhance the proliferation and transmission of common pathogens associated with HAI.
  • Evaluate an infectious disease in terms of the Chain of infection.
  • Apply the appropriate levels of the Hierarchy of Controls.
  • Apply standard precautions and transmission precautions to minimize patient and healthcare worker risk from infectious disease.
  

       Influenza: Not Just a Bad Cold (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • List high risk groups for flu and prevalence of the disease.
  • Define "pandemic" and state when they have occurred in the last century.
  • Describe the significance of a flu epidemic to the health care system in the U.S.
  • List the 3 types of flu.
  • Differentiate between antigenic drift and antigenic shift.
  • State the main method of flu transmission.
  • Differentiate between the signs and symptoms of a cold and the flu.
  • List diagnostic tests for influenza.
  • Identify some reliable strategies for influenza prevention in the health care setting.
  • Differentiate between different vaccine types and list indications and contraindications for each.
  • Describe respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette in healthcare settings.
  • List the basic drugs used for influenza antiviral treatment and the groups most likely to receive this treatment.
  • Describe basic uncomplicated flu treatment.
  

       Inhalant Abuse: Nursing Implications (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Define inhalants.
  • Identify classes and examples of inhalants.
  • Recognize reasons why youths are using inhalants.
  • Describe the characteristics of a youth likely to start using.
  • Recognize inhalant research regarding gender and ethnicity.
  • Describe methods of inhalation and the most frequent site of usage.
  • Describe the effects of inhalants on the body.
  • Define inhalant intoxication, withdrawal, tolerance and addiction.
  • Describe the assessment process.
  • Identify emergency treatment.
  • Recognize fatal and long-term consequences of inhaling.
  • Correlate the relationship of inhalant abuse and delinquent behavior.
  • Describe keys to prevent inhalant abuse.
  

       Interpretation of ABGs: A FOUR STEP METHOD  (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Recognize normal values for pH, PaO2, PaCO2, SaO2 and HCO3.
  • Explain significance of these values.
  • Describe how oxygen and carbon dioxide are carried in the body and how they are measured.
  • Relate the pH scale to acidosis and alkalosis.
  • Discuss the respiratory and metabolic mechanisms and their role in controlling the body's acid-base balance.
  • Interpret basic arterial blood gas values and relate these values to patient conditions.
  • Suggest therapies for acid-base correction.
  • Be aware of other resources for in-depth ABG interpretation information.
  

       Liver Disease (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Describe the normal anatomy of the liver.
  • Recognize the normal physiologic functions of the liver, including its role in bile formation and secretion, metabolism, vitamin storage, coagulation, and detoxification.
  • Discuss the pathophysiology, and diagnosis of specific pathologic conditions that affect the liver,including cirrhosis, hepatitis, carcinoma, Wilson's disease, alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency, and intrahepatic biliary dysplasia.
  • Recognize complications of liver decompensation, including, portal hypertension, esophageal varices, hepatic encephalopathy, and ascites.
  • State measures to prevent food-borne and blood-borne hepatitis.
  

       Medical Error: What You Need to Know (2 contact hours for $8 )
     
  • Identify "culture of safety" principles that can reduce human error and improve patient safety.
  • Discuss the scope of adverse events associated with health care in the United States.
  • Identify institutional barriers and other factors that impact the occurrence of medical errors.
  • Differentiate between Root-Cause Analysis and Failure Mode and Effects Analysis.
  • Compare the factors of human error and systems failure as causes of adverse events.
  • Recognize error-prone practice settings and situations.
  • Identify three common medication errors.
  • Discuss at least three ways medication errors can be prevented.
  • Clarify current responsibilities for reporting errors and "near-misses."
  • Suggest processes to improve patient outcome.
  • Recognize and discuss safety needs of special and/or high risk populations.
  • Discuss needs and methods for public education.
  

       Methamphetamine Use: What You Need to Know  (5 contact hours for $20 )
     
  • Recognize the extent of methamphetamine use in the United States.
  • Describe the forms of "meth."
  • Describe the various methods to ingest methamphetamine.
  • Identify sources of methamphetamine in the United States.
  • Describe the pharmacological action of methamphetamine.
  • Compare and contrast methamphetamine and cocaine.
  • Describe patterns of methamphetamine use.
  • List cardiovascular and other systemic effects from methamphetamine use.
  • Identify fetal, maternal and neonatal effects from meth exposure during pregnancy.
  • Identify the drug of choice for treating "meth" psychosis. List side effects of this medication.
  • List 8 potential long term effects from methamphetamine use.
  • Identify common components of treatment programs.
  

       Near-Death and Other Transpersonal Experiences (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • I Identify five archetypal transpersonal experiences surrounding death and dying
  • Describe four ancillary phenomena experience near the time of death..
  • Discuss research studies on the incidence, veridicality, and effects of these experiences
  • List the clinical impact of these experiences on the patient and family members.
  • Describe therapeutic approaches that can assist the patient and family to reconcile their subjective and objective experiences..
  • Identify key components of these experiences relevant to the medical record.
  

       Nursing Ethics and Jurisprudence (3 contact hours for $12 )
      1. Examine the ethical principles inherent to the practice of nursing. 2. List the laws that regulate nursing practice in Texas. 3. Describe the purpose, functions, and structure of the Board of Nursing 4. Discuss licensure, certifications, and nursing scope of practice.
  

       Obesity: Etiology, Assessment, Medical Treatment (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify obesity risks in adults and children
  • Identify the comorbidities of obesity
  • Identify the statistical risks associated with obesity
  • Discuss the training and infrastructure requirements to safely care for obese patients
  • Describe the most common types of bariatric surgery used in the US
  • Identify the malnutrition risks to the patient after surgery
  

       Older Adult and Geriatric care (3 contact hours for $12 )
      This ""Geriatric care" course is designed to provide 3 contact hours of nursing continuing professional development in the patient care topics of:
  • Elder abuse
  • End-of-Life Issues
  • Physiology of aging
  • Neurologic, cognitive and psychological changes of aging
  • Cardiovascular changes in aging
  • Gastrointestinal and metabolic changes in aging
  • Musculoskeletal changes
  • Urogenital changes
  

       Otitis Media in Children (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Describe the primary population affected by otitis media.
  • Estimate the cost of otitis media.
  • Review the normal pediatric auditory anatomy.
  • Describe the anatomy and physiology of the middle ear.
  • List the functions of the eustachian tube (ET).
  • Associate the anatomical structures in and near the eustachian tube with ET functions.
  • Relate the ways that fluid enters and leaves the ET with changes in pressure and risk of disease.
  • Describe the differences between pediatric and adult auditory anatomy.
  • Differentiate between AOM and OME.
  • List the three primary pathogens isolated from the middle ear. .
  • List hereditary and racial factors contributing to the development of OM.
  • List environmental factors contributing to the development of OM.
  • Describe the benefit of pneumatic otoscopy.
  • List two methods of collecting indirect evidence of middle ear fluid.
  • List two methods of collecting direct evidence of middle ear fluid.
  • Suggest a logical sequence for performing an auditory physical assessment of a child.
  • Describe the medical treatment of AOM and OME.
  • List the first and second line antibiotics.
  • Describe some of the surgical treatments of OM.
  • Suggest some preventive measures against contracting OM.
  

       Palliative care: What nurses need to know (4 contact hours for $16 )
      Learner should be able to:
  • Define palliative care and discuss how it differs from hospice care.
  • Explain the rights of patients for self-determination.
  • Discuss emotional, psychosocial, spiritual, and family issues related to end of life.
  • List and explain the three levels of the WHO pain ladder.
  • Apply information on the use of analgesia and adjuvant medications and treatments to relieve suffering.
  • Discuss the options for advance directives with a patient.
  

       PICC Line Care and Maintenance (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Describe the indications and contraindications of PICC lines.
  • Relate anatomical considerations in PICC line placement.
  • Discuss PICC line complications.
  • Explain care and management of the PICC line, including dressing change, cap change, flushing the catheter, and catheter removal.
  • Anticipate appropriate patient education associated with PICC lines, and formulate an applicable nursing care plan.
  

       Pneumonia: Assessment and Intervention (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify pathogens associated with community-acquired and hospital-acquired pneumonia.
  • Understand the basic pathophysiology of pneumonia.
  • Identify several risk factors associated with CAP and HAP.
  • Describe the most common signs and symptoms of pneumonia.
  • Describe the pneumonia assessment process as you would for a patient.
  • Educate patients and family member on prevention strategies for CAP.
  

       PSVT in the Pediatric Patient (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Define PSVT.
  • Specify prevalence of PSVT in pediatric population, and age of onset.
  • Compare EKG characteristics of pediatric PSVT with normal pediatric EKG.
  • Compare and contrast normal cardiac conduction with abnormal conduction processes.
  • Explain two common mechanisms of initiation of PSVT.
  • Explain mechanism of WPW in relation to initiation of PSVT and describe how WPW is diagnosed and treated in the pediatric patient.
  • List elements of clinicalpresentation of PSVT in the infant, child and adolescent. Compare well-compensated patient to one who is displaying severe symptoms.
  • Describe severalself-treatments a child and family can be taught to convert PSVT to normal rhythm.
  • Describe immediate life support and diagnostic measures necessary for the child with symptomatic PSVT.
  • Identify medications and other treatments used in treatment of PSVT, their dosages, indications and side-effects.
  • Compare and contrast developmental issues of child and pre-adolescent to older adolescent receiving treatment for PSVT. Specify recommended provider behaviors in each case.
  

       Publishing (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • How to select topics for publication.
  • How to select an appropriate journal, book or online publisher for your work.
  • How to write and submit a query letter.
  • How to develop an outline for an article.
  • How to write an abstract, introduction, lead sentence, prepare the manuscript, conclusion, and references.
  • How to respond to editorial feedback about your article.
  • How to submit an article for publication.
  

       Respiratory Assessment: Adult and Child (5 contact hours for $20 )
     
  • Recognize the principal structures of the respiratory system.
  • Describe the function of the respiratory system.
  • State 6 significant respiratory symptoms.
  • Identify 4 techniques used in a respiratory assessment.
  • Describe normal assessment findings for chest inspection.
  • Recognize disturbances in breathing rate and rhythm.
  • Describe normal assessment findings for chest palpation.
  • Describe normal assessment findings for chest percussion.
  • Differentiate among the following sounds heard and felt on percussion: resonant sounds; flat sounds; dull sounds; hyperresonant sounds; and tympanic sounds.
  • Describe normal assessment findings for chest auscultation.
  • Describe the characteristics and implications of the following abnormal breath sounds:crackles or rales; wheezes, rhonchi, stridor.
  • Describe the implications of the following transmitted voice sounds: whispered pectoriloquy,bronchophony, egophony.
  • Describe expected assessment findings for the following respiratory diseases: atelectasis,pneumonia, bronchitis, emphysema, pleural effusion,pneumothorax.
  • Recognize techniques that are helpful in doing a respiratory assessment on a child.
  

       Telephone Triage (3 contact hours for $12 )
      This course offers a synopsis of telephone triage nursing.  It provides a general review of education requirements, salaries, fundamental skills, and an outline of training needed for specialty areas.
  

       Understanding Coagulation Tests (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Recognize the four stages of the coagulation process.
  • Identify normal values for prothrombin time and partial thromboplastin time.
  • Describe therapeutic measures used to help return prothrombin and partial thromboplastin times to normal values.
  • List drugs that affect prothrombin time and partial thromboplastin values.
  • Describe risk factors for excess bleeding and hypercoagulation states.
  • Discuss nursing interventions for patients with specific coagulation abnormalities.
  

       Understanding Liver Function Tests  (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify the primary functions of the liver.
  • Recognize types of diseases that cause liver dysfunction.
  • Differentiate between true tests of liver function and tests that are indicators of liver disease.
  • Identify normal values for liver function tests.
  • Recognize the role of albumin in the blood.
  • Describe the purpose of protein electrophoresis.
  • State the purpose of an A/G ratio.
  • Describe the normal pathway for the production and excretion of bilirubin.
  • Differentiate between unconjugated and conjugated bilirubin.
  • Recognize the importance of measuring liver enzymes as indicators of liver damage.
  • Describe the process used during a liver biopsy.
  

       Understanding Renal Function Tests (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Describe the function of the kidney.
  • Identify characteristics of the following degrees of renal dysfunction: diminished renal reserve,renal insufficiency, renal failure, and end-stage renal disease.
  • Identify normal values for the following renal function tests: Blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum and urine creatinine, creatinine clearance, urinary urea nitrogen and nitrogen balance, serum and urine osmolality, serum and urinary uric acid.
  • Compare and contrast factors that affect the BUN and serum creatinine levels.
  • Give examples of changes in serum and urine osmolality and propose appropriate nursing interventions.
  

       Understanding the CBC (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • List blood tests performed as part of a CBC.
  • Recognize the influence of the patient's hydration status on accurate CBC results.
  • State normal adult values for CBC test results.
  • Describe two physiologic reasons and two pathological reasons for an increase in red blood cells.
  • Describe four reasons for a decrease in red blood cells.
  • Identify panic values for hematocrit,hemoglobin, white blood cells, and platelets.
  • Recognize the purpose of hemoglobin in red blood cells.
  • Describe the calculation relationship between hematocrit and hemoglobin.
  • Describe the impact of pregnancy on CBC results.
  • Identify the purpose of erythrocyte indices.
  • Describe classifications of anemias based on the results of erythrocyte indices.
  • List five types of white blood cells and state the function of each type of cell.
  • State the implications of a "shift to the left" on a white blood cell differential.
  • Identify common patterns of white blood cell increase or decrease in disease processes.
  • Recognize the function of platelets in normal coagulation.
  • Formulate nursing diagnoses and describe interventions for a patient with an elevated RBC count, a decreased hematocrit, a decreased neutrophil count, and a decreased platelet count.
  

       Understanding Urinalysis (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Recognize the value of urinalysis as a screening examination for renal and nonrenal diseases.
  • Recognize types of urine specimens and methods of collection.
  • Differentiate between macroscopic and microscopic urine examinations.
  • Identify reference values for a normalurinalysis.
  • Interpret the meaning of abnormal findings on a urinalysis.
  • Recognize nursing diagnoses and propose interventions for patients with abnormal urine test findings.
  

       Urinary Incontinence in the Elderly (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Define urinary incontinence (UI) according to the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research (AHCPR).
  • Estimate the prevalence and cost of urinary incontinence (UI).
  • Describe literature and research of nurses' knowledge of UI in elderly patients.
  • Differentiate between the sudden onset UI and the chronic UI.
  • Identify the characteristics of the 6 types of UI.
  • Recognize history, lab tests, and physical exam pertinent to UI.
  • Describe how a health professional may individualize treatment/service plans for elderly patients in different levels of care.
  • Identify when basic evaluation is not sufficient, and know to whom to refer patients.
  

       West Nile Virus (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Describe the epidemiology of West Nile virus (WNV).
  • List and describe 3 tests used for diagnosis of WNV.
  • Describe the transmission cycle.
  • Discuss 6 modes of transmission.
  • List and describe 3 different classes of WNV infection.
  • Describe West Nile Fever.
  • List and describe 3 types of severe neurological disorders.
  • Discuss the differences among meningitis, encephalitis, and acute flaccid paralysis.
  • Describe treatment that is currently available and being used in clinical trials.
  • List 2 common medications for CHF management and discuss actions of each medication, pediatric dosages and precautions.
  • Discuss risk factors.
  • Discuss 4 types of preventive measures.
  • Describe 4 types of insect repellents and guidelines for use.
  

       Wound care (3 contact hours for $12 )
      •Describe the anatomy and physiology of the skin relevant to wound healing, •Identify five common types of wounds, •Describe the four stages of wound healing, •Carry out a wound assessment, •Identify five factors that can influence wound healing, •Apply appropriate pain management strategies.
  

  Diagnostics/Lab Test
       Advances in Multiple Sclerosis (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • To describe the epidemiology, incidence, and prevalence of MS.
  • To identify the etiology and pathophysiology of MS.
  • To state 4 disease course classifications for MS.
  • To describe 10 symptoms commonly experienced by persons with MS.
  • To identify 3 criteria used to establish a diagnosis of MS.
  • To recognize factors associated with more favorable and less favorable prognoses in MS.
  • To state principles of symptoms management for the following symptoms: fatigue, sensory problems and pain, sexual dysfunction, speech and swallowing problems, spasticity and tremor, visual disturbances and vertigo, bladder dysfunction, bowel dysfunction and cognitive impairment.
  • To state care management for acute MS exacerbations.
  • To identify 5 disease-modifying drugs used in MS therapy.
  • To state potential problems with adherence to disease-modifying therapy.
  • To describe psychosocial issues commonly experienced by persons with MS.
  • To state the impact of MS on family functioning.
  • To identify the incidence of MS associated depression.
  • To state principles of treatment for depression for persons with MS.
  • To state the goals of rehabilitation for a person with MS.
  • To identify roles of members of the rehabilitation team.
  • To recognize 5 challenges faced by the rehabilitation health team in providing care for persons with MS.
  

       Cardiac Case Studies (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify each dyshythmia.
  • Apply basic dysrhythmia knowledge to analyze the case study.
  

       ECG Strip Identification and Evaluation (5 contact hours for $20 )
     
  • Describe the conduction system of the heart.
  • Discuss the sites of action potential generation and propagation through the cardiac conduction system.
  • Contrast the effect of parasympathetic with sympathetic stimulation of the cardiac conduction system.
  • Correlate the actions of the heart represented by the p wave, PR interval, QRS complex, and T wave..
  • Choose proper placement of electrodes based on ECG mechanics.
  • Calculate a heart rate from an ECG strip.
  • Analyze the following rhythms as they would appear on an ECG strip: a) Normal sinus rhythm, b) Sinus Bradycardia, c) Sinus tachycardia
  • Analyze the following dysrhythmias as would appear on an ECG strip: a) Atrial fibrillation, b) Premature ventricular contractions, c) Ventricular tachycardia, d) Ventricular fibrillation, e) Asystole/ventricular standstill.
  • List nursing interventions associated with common dysrhythmias.
  • Describe the nursing interventions intended to correct the effects of insufficient tissue perfusion associated with symptomatic dysrhythmias.
  

       Hemodynamic Monitoring: An Introduction (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Discuss cardiac physiology as it relates to blood flow and hemodynamic monitoring.
  • Understand the terminology and normal values associated with hemodynamic monitoring.
  • Review methods of noninvasive hemodynamic monitoring.
  • Describe components, and purposes, of invasive monitoring, including arterial, central venous and pulmonary artery catheters.
  • Discuss issues related to nursing care for patients with invasive hemodynamic catheters.
  

       Interpretation of ABGs: A FOUR STEP METHOD  (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Recognize normal values for pH, PaO2, PaCO2, SaO2 and HCO3.
  • Explain significance of these values.
  • Describe how oxygen and carbon dioxide are carried in the body and how they are measured.
  • Relate the pH scale to acidosis and alkalosis.
  • Discuss the respiratory and metabolic mechanisms and their role in controlling the body's acid-base balance.
  • Interpret basic arterial blood gas values and relate these values to patient conditions.
  • Suggest therapies for acid-base correction.
  • Be aware of other resources for in-depth ABG interpretation information.
  

       Respiratory Assessment: Adult and Child (5 contact hours for $20 )
     
  • Recognize the principal structures of the respiratory system.
  • Describe the function of the respiratory system.
  • State 6 significant respiratory symptoms.
  • Identify 4 techniques used in a respiratory assessment.
  • Describe normal assessment findings for chest inspection.
  • Recognize disturbances in breathing rate and rhythm.
  • Describe normal assessment findings for chest palpation.
  • Describe normal assessment findings for chest percussion.
  • Differentiate among the following sounds heard and felt on percussion: resonant sounds; flat sounds; dull sounds; hyperresonant sounds; and tympanic sounds.
  • Describe normal assessment findings for chest auscultation.
  • Describe the characteristics and implications of the following abnormal breath sounds:crackles or rales; wheezes, rhonchi, stridor.
  • Describe the implications of the following transmitted voice sounds: whispered pectoriloquy,bronchophony, egophony.
  • Describe expected assessment findings for the following respiratory diseases: atelectasis,pneumonia, bronchitis, emphysema, pleural effusion,pneumothorax.
  • Recognize techniques that are helpful in doing a respiratory assessment on a child.
  

       Understanding Coagulation Tests (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Recognize the four stages of the coagulation process.
  • Identify normal values for prothrombin time and partial thromboplastin time.
  • Describe therapeutic measures used to help return prothrombin and partial thromboplastin times to normal values.
  • List drugs that affect prothrombin time and partial thromboplastin values.
  • Describe risk factors for excess bleeding and hypercoagulation states.
  • Discuss nursing interventions for patients with specific coagulation abnormalities.
  

       Understanding Liver Function Tests  (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify the primary functions of the liver.
  • Recognize types of diseases that cause liver dysfunction.
  • Differentiate between true tests of liver function and tests that are indicators of liver disease.
  • Identify normal values for liver function tests.
  • Recognize the role of albumin in the blood.
  • Describe the purpose of protein electrophoresis.
  • State the purpose of an A/G ratio.
  • Describe the normal pathway for the production and excretion of bilirubin.
  • Differentiate between unconjugated and conjugated bilirubin.
  • Recognize the importance of measuring liver enzymes as indicators of liver damage.
  • Describe the process used during a liver biopsy.
  

       Understanding Renal Function Tests (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Describe the function of the kidney.
  • Identify characteristics of the following degrees of renal dysfunction: diminished renal reserve,renal insufficiency, renal failure, and end-stage renal disease.
  • Identify normal values for the following renal function tests: Blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum and urine creatinine, creatinine clearance, urinary urea nitrogen and nitrogen balance, serum and urine osmolality, serum and urinary uric acid.
  • Compare and contrast factors that affect the BUN and serum creatinine levels.
  • Give examples of changes in serum and urine osmolality and propose appropriate nursing interventions.
  

       Understanding the CBC (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • List blood tests performed as part of a CBC.
  • Recognize the influence of the patient's hydration status on accurate CBC results.
  • State normal adult values for CBC test results.
  • Describe two physiologic reasons and two pathological reasons for an increase in red blood cells.
  • Describe four reasons for a decrease in red blood cells.
  • Identify panic values for hematocrit,hemoglobin, white blood cells, and platelets.
  • Recognize the purpose of hemoglobin in red blood cells.
  • Describe the calculation relationship between hematocrit and hemoglobin.
  • Describe the impact of pregnancy on CBC results.
  • Identify the purpose of erythrocyte indices.
  • Describe classifications of anemias based on the results of erythrocyte indices.
  • List five types of white blood cells and state the function of each type of cell.
  • State the implications of a "shift to the left" on a white blood cell differential.
  • Identify common patterns of white blood cell increase or decrease in disease processes.
  • Recognize the function of platelets in normal coagulation.
  • Formulate nursing diagnoses and describe interventions for a patient with an elevated RBC count, a decreased hematocrit, a decreased neutrophil count, and a decreased platelet count.
  

       Understanding Urinalysis (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Recognize the value of urinalysis as a screening examination for renal and nonrenal diseases.
  • Recognize types of urine specimens and methods of collection.
  • Differentiate between macroscopic and microscopic urine examinations.
  • Identify reference values for a normalurinalysis.
  • Interpret the meaning of abnormal findings on a urinalysis.
  • Recognize nursing diagnoses and propose interventions for patients with abnormal urine test findings.
  

  General
       Abusive Head Trauma / Shaken Baby Syndrome (3 contact hours for $12 )
      Upon completion of this course, the learner will be able to:
  • Present knowledge of the incidence, mortality and morbidity associated with Abusive Head Trauma (AHT).
  • Consider the leading precipitating factors in AHT when assessing a child.
  • Describe the mechanism of injury in Abusive Head Trauma
  • Report a child with signs and symptoms of AHT.
  • Initiate education of parents about preventing AHT.
  

       Addressing Colleague Impairment (3 contact hours for $12 )
      Upon completion of this course the learner will be able to:
  • Define nurse impairment
  • Recognize signs of impairment in co-workers and others
  • Describe the mandatory reporting law in Florida.
  • Identify options for treatment of impaired nurses.
  • Describe options for workplace education and support for the impaired nurse.
  • Visualize the procedures for reporting an impaired coworker in your workplace.
  

       Adolescent Substance Use (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Recognize the factors that make the topic of substance use so emotionally intense.
  • Recognize common behavioral signs of substance use.
  • Explain screening tools and brief interventions for adolescents.
  • Identify the effects of popular street drugs today.
  • Recognize the problems of poly drug use in youth.
  • Explain the relationship between mental illness and drug use.
  • Describe risk-taking as a developmental task.
  • Differentiate a temporary drug-related psychosis from a true psychosis.
  • Understand the possible consequences of failure to elicit information about drug use.
  • Explain the effects of drug/substance use on the developing brain.
  

       Advances in Multiple Sclerosis (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • To describe the epidemiology, incidence, and prevalence of MS.
  • To identify the etiology and pathophysiology of MS.
  • To state 4 disease course classifications for MS.
  • To describe 10 symptoms commonly experienced by persons with MS.
  • To identify 3 criteria used to establish a diagnosis of MS.
  • To recognize factors associated with more favorable and less favorable prognoses in MS.
  • To state principles of symptoms management for the following symptoms: fatigue, sensory problems and pain, sexual dysfunction, speech and swallowing problems, spasticity and tremor, visual disturbances and vertigo, bladder dysfunction, bowel dysfunction and cognitive impairment.
  • To state care management for acute MS exacerbations.
  • To identify 5 disease-modifying drugs used in MS therapy.
  • To state potential problems with adherence to disease-modifying therapy.
  • To describe psychosocial issues commonly experienced by persons with MS.
  • To state the impact of MS on family functioning.
  • To identify the incidence of MS associated depression.
  • To state principles of treatment for depression for persons with MS.
  • To state the goals of rehabilitation for a person with MS.
  • To identify roles of members of the rehabilitation team.
  • To recognize 5 challenges faced by the rehabilitation health team in providing care for persons with MS.
  

       Analgesic Drugs and Pain Management (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Recognize problems created by under-treating pain and identify individuals who are at greatest risk for having their pain under-treated.
  • Distinguish between nociceptive and neuropathic pain.
  • Identify 3 classifications of analgesic drugs.
  • Recognize how nonopioid analgesics differ from opioid analgesics.
  • Identify the mechanism of action, side effects, and maximum daily dose of acetaminophen.
  • Identify the relationship between aspirin and Reye’s syndrome.
  • Recognize the mechanism of action of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and distinguish between nonselective and selective NSAIDS.
  • Identify common side effects of NSAIDs, ways to prevent and/or manage them and advantages and disadvantages of combining NSAIDs with opioid analgesics.
  • Discuss the concept of "opioid dose sparing."
  • Identify the mechanism of action of mu agonist opioid analgesics.
  • Discuss the concept of "analgesic ceiling."
  • List 3 opioid analgesics that are commonly used to treat severe escalating acute pain.
  • Discuss guidelines for using opioid analgesics and the concept of "titrating to effect" as it applies to opioid analgesics.
  • Recognize the rationale for avoiding using meperidine as an analgesic.
  • Discuss the value of giving analgesics on an around-the-clock rather than on a PRN basis to manage continuous pain.
  • Recognize common side effects associated with opioid analgesics and ways to manage side effects.
  • Recognize ways to assess respiratory depression in patients receiving opioid analgesics.
  • Distinguish among the terms "tolerance," "physical dependency," and "addiction."
  • Identify the percentage of patients who become addicted to opioids when receiving them under medical supervision.
  • Discuss conditions under which the following administration routes for opioid analgesics are used: oral, rectal, subcutaneous, intramuscular, intravenous, transdermal, and intrathecal.
  • Recognize nursing considerations for patients receiving opioid analgesics and identify ways in which patients receiving opioids can minimize adverse effects.
  • Discuss the mechanism of action of antidepressants and anticonvulsants in relation to pain management.
  • Evaluate the effect of the CDC opioid guidelines on your nursing practice.
  

       Antiretroviral Drugs for HIV and AIDS (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Recognize how HIV affects the immune system.
  • Describe how HIV is transmitted.
  • Identify the signs and symptoms of HIV infection and AIDS.
  • List AIDS-defining illnesses.
  • Discuss how the following classifications of antiretroviral drugs work: Nucleoside analogue reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), Protease inhibitors (PIs), Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs), Fusion inhibitors (FIs)
  • Describe factors involved in starting HIV drug treatment.
  • Identify the goal of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART).
  • Discuss the use of antiretroviral drugs during pregnancy.
  • Identify "black box" warnings for specific antiretroviral drugs.
  • Identify the influence of food, herbs, and drugs on antiretroviral therapy.
  • Discuss 3 types of antiretroviral regimen failure.
  • State 2 reasons why adherence to antiretroviral drug therapy is crucial.
  • Recognize ways healthcare professionals can help patients adhere to antiretroviral therapy.
  • Identify the meaning of the following terms: HIV infection, AIDS, AIDS defining illnesses, CD4+T cells, DNA, RNA, Nucleic acid, Reverse transcriptase, retrovirus, viral load, HAART.
  

       Biological Warfare: Diseases As Weapons (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • State information related to preparing for an incidence of bioterrorism including clues to bioterrorism attack and the signs, symptoms, modes of transmission of high-priority agents of bioterrorism.
  • State information related to reporting of an incidence of bioterrorism, including the ways to contact the proper authorities and correctly document the incidence of bioterrorism.
  • State information related to the implementation of decontamination procedures, the identification of treatment locations and treatment personnel, the acquisition of treatment-related supplies, the awareness of any facility-organized response plans, and the development of a patient care plan to address the situation.
  • Recognize the potential threat of the release of biological diseases/agents to the United States population.
  • Describe Category A, B, and C biological treats as classified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
  • Identify 4 rationales for the assignment of biological diseases/agents to a Category A classification.
  • Identify the potential as a biological weapon, epidemiology, clinical course, and disease management for the following: Anthrax, Botulism, Plague, Smallpox, Tularemia, Viral hemorrhagic fever.
  

       Bladder Management after Spinal Cord Injury (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Understand the basic relationship between spinal cord injury and problems with the urinary system and bladder function.
  • Explain the basic process of normal urination, including the anatomy and physiology of the bladder and it's nervous system control.
  • List the neurological changes that take place with supraspinal, suprasacral and infrasacral spinal cord injuries.
  • Describe the optimal initial bladder management strategies immediately after spinal cord injury, including during spinal shock.
  • List the factors to be considered in bladder training and management during the long-term recovery period after SCI.
  • Anticipate the problem of Autonomic Dysreflexia (AD) after SCI, including triggering factors, signs and symptoms, treatment options and prevention.
  • Discuss the incidence of urinary tract infections after SCI, including causes, signs and symptoms, assessment issues, treatment and prevention.
  

       Breast Cancer in situ (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Define breast carcinoma in situ (DCIS and LCIS).
  • List the breast cancer in situ subtypes and grading.
  • Discuss risk factors of DCIS and LCIS.
  • Differentiate between different biopsy methods.
  • Describe the typical treatments.
  • Explain the factors that influence the prognosis of DCIS and LCIS.
  • Suggest several factors that may influence successful follow-up.
  • Instruct patients on ways to reduce anxiety.
  

       Cancer Chemotherapy (5 contact hours for $20 )
     
  • To recognize 3 goals for the use of cytotoxic drugs in cancer treatment.
  • To identify and describe the phases of the cell life cycle.
  • To identify the advantages of combining cytotoxic drugs in cancer treatment.
  • To recognize 5 classifications of alkylating drugs.
  • To identify four types of biologic biological therapies used in cancer treatment.
  • To describe adjuvant, induction, consolidation, and maintenance cytotoxic drug regimens in cancer treatment.
  • To identity potential toxicities for frequently used cytotoxic drugs.
  • To describe 3 types of vascular access devices for the administration of cytotoxic drugs.
  • To identify the effects of chemotherapy and management strategies related to the following body systems: Hematopoeitic, Integumentary, Gastrointestinal, Cardiovascular, Neurological, Respiratory, Reproductive, and Urological.
  • To recognize symptoms of hypersensitivity reactions associated with cancer chemotherapy.
  • To state 6 goals for patient/family education when a patient is receiving cytotoxic drugs.
  • To describe 3 phases of clinical trials in cancer drug development.
  • To identify cancer chemotherapy resources for health care professionals and patients.
  

       Cardiac Case Studies (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify each dyshythmia.
  • Apply basic dysrhythmia knowledge to analyze the case study.
  

       Cerebral Palsy in Children (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify key characteristics of the four classic presentations of cerebral palsy.
  • Describe prenatal and pregnancy-related risk factors associated with cerebral palsy.
  • Discuss diagnostic tests used to establish a diagnosis of cerebral palsy.
  • List physical disabilities, developmental delays, and medical issues commonly associated with cerebral palsy in children.
  • Outline currently-accepted treatment modalities for children with cerebral palsy.
  • State professional recommendations regarding complementary and alternative treatments for children with cerebral palsy.
  • Describe the developmental and educational systems established to meet the needs of children with cerebral palsy, and identify the role of nurses in these settings.
  • Discuss effective case management for children with cerebral palsy, including implications of special needs trusts.
  • Discuss prognostic indicators that impact quality of life for children with cerebral palsy.
  • Identify appropriate online and print resources for professionals who work with children with cerebral palsy.
  • List appropriate online and print references, as well as support agencies, for parents of children with cerebral palsy.
  

       Child Abuse (3 contact hours for $12 )
      This course includes descriptions of four aspects of child abuse: neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse and emotional abuse. Emphasis in this course will be on:
  • detection of abused children
  • assessment of injuries and signs and symptoms
  • causes
  • long term effects
  • preventive measures
  • parent education
  • laws, mechanisms and the duty of nurses to report child abuse
  

       Children with Down Syndrome (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify specific neurological, sensory, orthopedic, cardiac, respiratory, autoimmune, mental health, dental, and oncological health risks of children with Down syndrome, and describe appropriate nursing interventions related to these risks.
  • Cite the health care guidelines established by the National Down Syndrome Society for children with Down syndrome, and highlight nursing interventions to address these guidelines.
  • Identify specific recommendations for feeding and nutrition in youngsters with Down syndrome.
  • Discuss appropriate weight management strategies and physical activities for children with Down syndrome.
  • Describe developmental issues specific to children with Down syndrome, and identify beneficial therapies.
  • Outline services provided to children with Down syndrome through the early intervention program.
  • Identify supports available to children with Down syndrome through the public educational system and state services.
  

       Diabetes Treatments: Insulin and Oral Drugs (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • State the physiological effects of insulin.
  • Recognize basic elements of the pancreatic beta cell.
  • Compare and contrast insulin preparations based on source, type, and concentration.
  • Identify situations in which insulin is used.
  • Recognize indications for specific insulin products and insulin therapy regimens.
  • State appropriate administration and storage guidelines for insulin.
  • Recognize the advantages and disadvantages of an insulin pump.
  • Identify the mechanism of action, side effects, and clinical use of anti-diabetic oral agents.
  • Describe the use of combination therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes.
  • Recognize the potential impact of interactions with other drugs that are commonly used by persons with diabetes.
  

       Diabetes: Nutrition and Exercise Therapy (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • To recognize medical nutrition goals for people with diabetes.
  • To identify the role of insulin and food sources in nutrition.
  • To discuss the rationale underlying carbohydrate counting and exchange lists.
  • To state adjustments to meal planning that should be made during an acute illness.
  • To recognize the benefits of exercise for persons with diabetes.
  • To identify methods of minimizing exercise induced risk.
  • To state exercise safety recommendations for persons taking antidiabetes agents.
  

       Domestic Violence Update for Nurses (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Define domestic/intimate partner violence.
  • Discuss the prevalence of abuse, and consider the numbers of patients in his/her practice that may be either victims or perpetrators of domestic violence.
  • List four types of abuse.
  • Discuss assessment and screening procedures for determining whether a patient has any history of being either a victim, or a perpetrator, of domestic violence.
  • Explain the Florida state regulations in relation to reporting abuse for children, vulnerable adults, and adults in general.
  • Describe the steps for reporting abuse.
  • List at least 4 different intervention services in the state of Florida.
  • Describe how to provide vulnerable patients with information on, or how to refer such patients to, resources in the local community, such as: domestic violence centers and other advocacy groups, that
  

       Evidence Based Fall Prevention  (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify and describe five types of falls
  • List the five levels of injuries scale established by National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators.
  • Describe the scope of inpatient fall injury and death that occurs in U.S. acute care hospitals.
  • List patient characteristics that are common in patients at high risk for fall.
  • Identify the major validated fall risk assessment tools used in hospitals.
  • Explain the components of a falls risk program to a patient.
  

       Experiences of Previously Unconscious Patients  (3 contact hours for $0 )
     
  • Describe the five states that occur during unconsciousness:
    • unconsciousness
    • inner awareness
    • perceived (or presumed) unconsciousness
    • distorted consciousness
    • exceptional or paranormal experiences.
  • Analyze how movement affects unconscious patients.
  • Describe clinical application of the information.
  

       Heart Failure: Prevalence and Prevention (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Describe the prevalence of heart failure.
  • Compare the three classification systems for HF.
  • Describe risk factors that predispose patients to HF.
  • Discuss the Renal Angiotensin Aldosterone System as a target for pharmacologic intervention.
  • Discuss pharmacologic and interventional strategies used to manage the effects of cardiac remodeling caused by hypertension, atherosclerosis, asymptomatic valve disease, substance abuse, etc
  • Contrast the effects of concentric remodeling with the effects of eccentric remodeling.
  

       Heart Failure: Psychological constructs (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify the psychological constructs that increase the risk of heart failure (HF).
  • Discuss the identification of depression in nursing assessments.
  • Describe treatment options for depression and anxiety to prevent heart failure.
  • Describe a patient interaction that promotes positive well-being.
  • Apply principles of Positive Psychology to prevent HF in patients at risk for HF.
  • Discuss the relationship between an optimistic view and pessimistic one on quality of life of patient with HF.
  • List three quality of life measurements used with patients who have HF.
  

       Hemodynamic Monitoring: An Introduction (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Discuss cardiac physiology as it relates to blood flow and hemodynamic monitoring.
  • Understand the terminology and normal values associated with hemodynamic monitoring.
  • Review methods of noninvasive hemodynamic monitoring.
  • Describe components, and purposes, of invasive monitoring, including arterial, central venous and pulmonary artery catheters.
  • Discuss issues related to nursing care for patients with invasive hemodynamic catheters.
  

       Hepatitis C: Prevention, Assessment & Treatment (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Describe hepatitis C (HCV) and the mode of transmission.
  • Discuss the history of HCV.
  • Discuss the infectious process and genotypes.
  • List and describe 6 to 9 risk factors for HCV.
  • List 4 different types of HCV assessment tests and applications.
  • List and describe 5 to 8 primary symptoms/complications of HCV.
  • List and describe 3 types of treatment for HCV.
  • List and describe 5 to 7 prevention methods.
  

       High Altitude Sickness (2 contact hours for $8 )
     
  • Define high altitude sickness.
  • Describe the body’s acclimatization process.
  • List the 3 primary types of acute mountain sickness (AMS).
  • List 2 additional forms of altitude sickness.
  • Describe the symptoms of mild, moderate, and severe AMS.
  • Discuss symptoms and treatment for high altitude cerebral edema (HACE).
  • Discuss symptoms and treatment for high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE).
  • List 3 medications used to treat High Altitude Sickness.
  • Describe the use of portable hyperbaric chambers.
  • Discuss high altitude effects on pre-existing conditions and contraindications for travel to high altitudes.
  • List 5 preventive measures against developing high altitude sickness.
  

       HIV/AIDS Update for Nurses (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Describe various modes of transmission for HIV/AIDS.
  • Distinguish between different tests for HIV/AIDS.
  • Describe treatment and clinical management choices.
  • Recognize risk factors.
  • Describe prevention and infection control procedures.
  • Discuss Florida law on AIDS and the impact on testing, confidentiality, and treatment.
  • List Florida resources for persons/families with HIV/AIDS.
  

       HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders (HAND) (2 contact hours for $8 )
     
  • Compare the AIDS/HIV statistics between the United States and the World, men and women, different races and sexual preferences.
  • Review symptoms of HIV related cognitive impairment.
  • List five intervention strategies for managing motor and behavior changes.
  • Describe the origin of, and management of, challenging behaviors exhibited by persons with HIV.
  • Identify the three cognitive symptoms of AIDS Dementia Complex.
  

       Hospice Care (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Contrast the patient services provided by hospice care with those provided by Palliative care.
  • Describe the roles and functions of a hospice care team members.
  • Describe the services provided under the Hospice Medicare Benefit.
  • Discuss the levels of pain and their treatments often experienced by hospice patients.
  • Discuss emotional, psychosocial, spiritual and family issues related to end of life.
  • Discuss the ethical foundation of the patient's right to refuse life-sustaining treatment.
  • Discuss the significance of a living will, health care surrogate, and durable power of attorney for hospice patients.
  

       Infection Control (3 contact hours for $12 )
      Upon completion of this course, the participant will be able to:
  • Evaluate the scope, risk, suffering and cost of preventable healthcare associated infections (HAI).
  • Recognize and redress conditions that enhance the proliferation and transmission of common pathogens associated with HAI.
  • Evaluate an infectious disease in terms of the Chain of infection.
  • Apply the appropriate levels of the Hierarchy of Controls.
  • Apply standard precautions and transmission precautions to minimize patient and healthcare worker risk from infectious disease.
  

       Influenza: Not Just a Bad Cold (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • List high risk groups for flu and prevalence of the disease.
  • Define "pandemic" and state when they have occurred in the last century.
  • Describe the significance of a flu epidemic to the health care system in the U.S.
  • List the 3 types of flu.
  • Differentiate between antigenic drift and antigenic shift.
  • State the main method of flu transmission.
  • Differentiate between the signs and symptoms of a cold and the flu.
  • List diagnostic tests for influenza.
  • Identify some reliable strategies for influenza prevention in the health care setting.
  • Differentiate between different vaccine types and list indications and contraindications for each.
  • Describe respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette in healthcare settings.
  • List the basic drugs used for influenza antiviral treatment and the groups most likely to receive this treatment.
  • Describe basic uncomplicated flu treatment.
  

       Inhalant Abuse: Nursing Implications (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Define inhalants.
  • Identify classes and examples of inhalants.
  • Recognize reasons why youths are using inhalants.
  • Describe the characteristics of a youth likely to start using.
  • Recognize inhalant research regarding gender and ethnicity.
  • Describe methods of inhalation and the most frequent site of usage.
  • Describe the effects of inhalants on the body.
  • Define inhalant intoxication, withdrawal, tolerance and addiction.
  • Describe the assessment process.
  • Identify emergency treatment.
  • Recognize fatal and long-term consequences of inhaling.
  • Correlate the relationship of inhalant abuse and delinquent behavior.
  • Describe keys to prevent inhalant abuse.
  

       Liver Disease (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Describe the normal anatomy of the liver.
  • Recognize the normal physiologic functions of the liver, including its role in bile formation and secretion, metabolism, vitamin storage, coagulation, and detoxification.
  • Discuss the pathophysiology, and diagnosis of specific pathologic conditions that affect the liver,including cirrhosis, hepatitis, carcinoma, Wilson's disease, alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency, and intrahepatic biliary dysplasia.
  • Recognize complications of liver decompensation, including, portal hypertension, esophageal varices, hepatic encephalopathy, and ascites.
  • State measures to prevent food-borne and blood-borne hepatitis.
  

       Medical Error: What You Need to Know (2 contact hours for $8 )
     
  • Identify "culture of safety" principles that can reduce human error and improve patient safety.
  • Discuss the scope of adverse events associated with health care in the United States.
  • Identify institutional barriers and other factors that impact the occurrence of medical errors.
  • Differentiate between Root-Cause Analysis and Failure Mode and Effects Analysis.
  • Compare the factors of human error and systems failure as causes of adverse events.
  • Recognize error-prone practice settings and situations.
  • Identify three common medication errors.
  • Discuss at least three ways medication errors can be prevented.
  • Clarify current responsibilities for reporting errors and "near-misses."
  • Suggest processes to improve patient outcome.
  • Recognize and discuss safety needs of special and/or high risk populations.
  • Discuss needs and methods for public education.
  

       Methamphetamine Use: What You Need to Know  (5 contact hours for $20 )
     
  • Recognize the extent of methamphetamine use in the United States.
  • Describe the forms of "meth."
  • Describe the various methods to ingest methamphetamine.
  • Identify sources of methamphetamine in the United States.
  • Describe the pharmacological action of methamphetamine.
  • Compare and contrast methamphetamine and cocaine.
  • Describe patterns of methamphetamine use.
  • List cardiovascular and other systemic effects from methamphetamine use.
  • Identify fetal, maternal and neonatal effects from meth exposure during pregnancy.
  • Identify the drug of choice for treating "meth" psychosis. List side effects of this medication.
  • List 8 potential long term effects from methamphetamine use.
  • Identify common components of treatment programs.
  

       Near-Death and Other Transpersonal Experiences (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • I Identify five archetypal transpersonal experiences surrounding death and dying
  • Describe four ancillary phenomena experience near the time of death..
  • Discuss research studies on the incidence, veridicality, and effects of these experiences
  • List the clinical impact of these experiences on the patient and family members.
  • Describe therapeutic approaches that can assist the patient and family to reconcile their subjective and objective experiences..
  • Identify key components of these experiences relevant to the medical record.
  

       Obesity: Etiology, Assessment, Medical Treatment (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify obesity risks in adults and children
  • Identify the comorbidities of obesity
  • Identify the statistical risks associated with obesity
  • Discuss the training and infrastructure requirements to safely care for obese patients
  • Describe the most common types of bariatric surgery used in the US
  • Identify the malnutrition risks to the patient after surgery
  

       Older Adult and Geriatric care (3 contact hours for $12 )
      This ""Geriatric care" course is designed to provide 3 contact hours of nursing continuing professional development in the patient care topics of:
  • Elder abuse
  • End-of-Life Issues
  • Physiology of aging
  • Neurologic, cognitive and psychological changes of aging
  • Cardiovascular changes in aging
  • Gastrointestinal and metabolic changes in aging
  • Musculoskeletal changes
  • Urogenital changes
  

       PICC Line Care and Maintenance (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Describe the indications and contraindications of PICC lines.
  • Relate anatomical considerations in PICC line placement.
  • Discuss PICC line complications.
  • Explain care and management of the PICC line, including dressing change, cap change, flushing the catheter, and catheter removal.
  • Anticipate appropriate patient education associated with PICC lines, and formulate an applicable nursing care plan.
  

       Pneumonia: Assessment and Intervention (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify pathogens associated with community-acquired and hospital-acquired pneumonia.
  • Understand the basic pathophysiology of pneumonia.
  • Identify several risk factors associated with CAP and HAP.
  • Describe the most common signs and symptoms of pneumonia.
  • Describe the pneumonia assessment process as you would for a patient.
  • Educate patients and family member on prevention strategies for CAP.
  

       Publishing (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • How to select topics for publication.
  • How to select an appropriate journal, book or online publisher for your work.
  • How to write and submit a query letter.
  • How to develop an outline for an article.
  • How to write an abstract, introduction, lead sentence, prepare the manuscript, conclusion, and references.
  • How to respond to editorial feedback about your article.
  • How to submit an article for publication.
  

       Respiratory Assessment: Adult and Child (5 contact hours for $20 )
     
  • Recognize the principal structures of the respiratory system.
  • Describe the function of the respiratory system.
  • State 6 significant respiratory symptoms.
  • Identify 4 techniques used in a respiratory assessment.
  • Describe normal assessment findings for chest inspection.
  • Recognize disturbances in breathing rate and rhythm.
  • Describe normal assessment findings for chest palpation.
  • Describe normal assessment findings for chest percussion.
  • Differentiate among the following sounds heard and felt on percussion: resonant sounds; flat sounds; dull sounds; hyperresonant sounds; and tympanic sounds.
  • Describe normal assessment findings for chest auscultation.
  • Describe the characteristics and implications of the following abnormal breath sounds:crackles or rales; wheezes, rhonchi, stridor.
  • Describe the implications of the following transmitted voice sounds: whispered pectoriloquy,bronchophony, egophony.
  • Describe expected assessment findings for the following respiratory diseases: atelectasis,pneumonia, bronchitis, emphysema, pleural effusion,pneumothorax.
  • Recognize techniques that are helpful in doing a respiratory assessment on a child.
  

       Telephone Triage (3 contact hours for $12 )
      This course offers a synopsis of telephone triage nursing.  It provides a general review of education requirements, salaries, fundamental skills, and an outline of training needed for specialty areas.
  

       Urinary Incontinence in the Elderly (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Define urinary incontinence (UI) according to the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research (AHCPR).
  • Estimate the prevalence and cost of urinary incontinence (UI).
  • Describe literature and research of nurses' knowledge of UI in elderly patients.
  • Differentiate between the sudden onset UI and the chronic UI.
  • Identify the characteristics of the 6 types of UI.
  • Recognize history, lab tests, and physical exam pertinent to UI.
  • Describe how a health professional may individualize treatment/service plans for elderly patients in different levels of care.
  • Identify when basic evaluation is not sufficient, and know to whom to refer patients.
  

       West Nile Virus (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Describe the epidemiology of West Nile virus (WNV).
  • List and describe 3 tests used for diagnosis of WNV.
  • Describe the transmission cycle.
  • Discuss 6 modes of transmission.
  • List and describe 3 different classes of WNV infection.
  • Describe West Nile Fever.
  • List and describe 3 types of severe neurological disorders.
  • Discuss the differences among meningitis, encephalitis, and acute flaccid paralysis.
  • Describe treatment that is currently available and being used in clinical trials.
  • List 2 common medications for CHF management and discuss actions of each medication, pediatric dosages and precautions.
  • Discuss risk factors.
  • Discuss 4 types of preventive measures.
  • Describe 4 types of insect repellents and guidelines for use.
  

       Wound care (3 contact hours for $12 )
      •Describe the anatomy and physiology of the skin relevant to wound healing, •Identify five common types of wounds, •Describe the four stages of wound healing, •Carry out a wound assessment, •Identify five factors that can influence wound healing, •Apply appropriate pain management strategies.
  

  Geriatrics
       Evidence Based Fall Prevention  (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify and describe five types of falls
  • List the five levels of injuries scale established by National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators.
  • Describe the scope of inpatient fall injury and death that occurs in U.S. acute care hospitals.
  • List patient characteristics that are common in patients at high risk for fall.
  • Identify the major validated fall risk assessment tools used in hospitals.
  • Explain the components of a falls risk program to a patient.
  

       Experiences of Previously Unconscious Patients  (3 contact hours for $0 )
     
  • Describe the five states that occur during unconsciousness:
    • unconsciousness
    • inner awareness
    • perceived (or presumed) unconsciousness
    • distorted consciousness
    • exceptional or paranormal experiences.
  • Analyze how movement affects unconscious patients.
  • Describe clinical application of the information.
  

       Heart Failure: Prevalence and Prevention (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Describe the prevalence of heart failure.
  • Compare the three classification systems for HF.
  • Describe risk factors that predispose patients to HF.
  • Discuss the Renal Angiotensin Aldosterone System as a target for pharmacologic intervention.
  • Discuss pharmacologic and interventional strategies used to manage the effects of cardiac remodeling caused by hypertension, atherosclerosis, asymptomatic valve disease, substance abuse, etc
  • Contrast the effects of concentric remodeling with the effects of eccentric remodeling.
  

       Heart Failure: Psychological constructs (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify the psychological constructs that increase the risk of heart failure (HF).
  • Discuss the identification of depression in nursing assessments.
  • Describe treatment options for depression and anxiety to prevent heart failure.
  • Describe a patient interaction that promotes positive well-being.
  • Apply principles of Positive Psychology to prevent HF in patients at risk for HF.
  • Discuss the relationship between an optimistic view and pessimistic one on quality of life of patient with HF.
  • List three quality of life measurements used with patients who have HF.
  

       Hospice Care (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Contrast the patient services provided by hospice care with those provided by Palliative care.
  • Describe the roles and functions of a hospice care team members.
  • Describe the services provided under the Hospice Medicare Benefit.
  • Discuss the levels of pain and their treatments often experienced by hospice patients.
  • Discuss emotional, psychosocial, spiritual and family issues related to end of life.
  • Discuss the ethical foundation of the patient's right to refuse life-sustaining treatment.
  • Discuss the significance of a living will, health care surrogate, and durable power of attorney for hospice patients.
  

       Hypo/Hyperthermia in the Elderly (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Recognize why elderly patients have changes in body temperature regulation that make them susceptible to both hypothermia and hyperthermia.
  • Identify specific risk factors for hypothermia in the elderly.
  • Describe signs and symptoms of hypothermia.
  • Identify treatment for hypothermia.
  • List ways in which the elderly and their families/caregivers can reduce the risk of hypothermia.
  • Identify specific risk factors for hyperthermia in the elderly.
  • Recognize 5 categories of drugs that can increase hyperthermia risk in elderly patients.
  • Distinguish between heat stress, heat fatigue, heat syncope, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
  • Describe signs and symptoms of hyperthermia.
  • Identify treatment for hyperthermia.
  • List ways in which the elderly and their families/caregivers can reduce the risk of hyperthermia.
  

       Influenza: Not Just a Bad Cold (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • List high risk groups for flu and prevalence of the disease.
  • Define "pandemic" and state when they have occurred in the last century.
  • Describe the significance of a flu epidemic to the health care system in the U.S.
  • List the 3 types of flu.
  • Differentiate between antigenic drift and antigenic shift.
  • State the main method of flu transmission.
  • Differentiate between the signs and symptoms of a cold and the flu.
  • List diagnostic tests for influenza.
  • Identify some reliable strategies for influenza prevention in the health care setting.
  • Differentiate between different vaccine types and list indications and contraindications for each.
  • Describe respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette in healthcare settings.
  • List the basic drugs used for influenza antiviral treatment and the groups most likely to receive this treatment.
  • Describe basic uncomplicated flu treatment.
  

       Near-Death and Other Transpersonal Experiences (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • I Identify five archetypal transpersonal experiences surrounding death and dying
  • Describe four ancillary phenomena experience near the time of death..
  • Discuss research studies on the incidence, veridicality, and effects of these experiences
  • List the clinical impact of these experiences on the patient and family members.
  • Describe therapeutic approaches that can assist the patient and family to reconcile their subjective and objective experiences..
  • Identify key components of these experiences relevant to the medical record.
  

       Older Adult and Geriatric care (3 contact hours for $12 )
      This ""Geriatric care" course is designed to provide 3 contact hours of nursing continuing professional development in the patient care topics of:
  • Elder abuse
  • End-of-Life Issues
  • Physiology of aging
  • Neurologic, cognitive and psychological changes of aging
  • Cardiovascular changes in aging
  • Gastrointestinal and metabolic changes in aging
  • Musculoskeletal changes
  • Urogenital changes
  

       Pneumonia: Assessment and Intervention (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify pathogens associated with community-acquired and hospital-acquired pneumonia.
  • Understand the basic pathophysiology of pneumonia.
  • Identify several risk factors associated with CAP and HAP.
  • Describe the most common signs and symptoms of pneumonia.
  • Describe the pneumonia assessment process as you would for a patient.
  • Educate patients and family member on prevention strategies for CAP.
  

       Urinary Incontinence in the Elderly (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Define urinary incontinence (UI) according to the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research (AHCPR).
  • Estimate the prevalence and cost of urinary incontinence (UI).
  • Describe literature and research of nurses' knowledge of UI in elderly patients.
  • Differentiate between the sudden onset UI and the chronic UI.
  • Identify the characteristics of the 6 types of UI.
  • Recognize history, lab tests, and physical exam pertinent to UI.
  • Describe how a health professional may individualize treatment/service plans for elderly patients in different levels of care.
  • Identify when basic evaluation is not sufficient, and know to whom to refer patients.
  

       Wound care (3 contact hours for $12 )
      •Describe the anatomy and physiology of the skin relevant to wound healing, •Identify five common types of wounds, •Describe the four stages of wound healing, •Carry out a wound assessment, •Identify five factors that can influence wound healing, •Apply appropriate pain management strategies.
  

  GI/GU
       Advances in Multiple Sclerosis (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • To describe the epidemiology, incidence, and prevalence of MS.
  • To identify the etiology and pathophysiology of MS.
  • To state 4 disease course classifications for MS.
  • To describe 10 symptoms commonly experienced by persons with MS.
  • To identify 3 criteria used to establish a diagnosis of MS.
  • To recognize factors associated with more favorable and less favorable prognoses in MS.
  • To state principles of symptoms management for the following symptoms: fatigue, sensory problems and pain, sexual dysfunction, speech and swallowing problems, spasticity and tremor, visual disturbances and vertigo, bladder dysfunction, bowel dysfunction and cognitive impairment.
  • To state care management for acute MS exacerbations.
  • To identify 5 disease-modifying drugs used in MS therapy.
  • To state potential problems with adherence to disease-modifying therapy.
  • To describe psychosocial issues commonly experienced by persons with MS.
  • To state the impact of MS on family functioning.
  • To identify the incidence of MS associated depression.
  • To state principles of treatment for depression for persons with MS.
  • To state the goals of rehabilitation for a person with MS.
  • To identify roles of members of the rehabilitation team.
  • To recognize 5 challenges faced by the rehabilitation health team in providing care for persons with MS.
  

       Bladder Management after Spinal Cord Injury (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Understand the basic relationship between spinal cord injury and problems with the urinary system and bladder function.
  • Explain the basic process of normal urination, including the anatomy and physiology of the bladder and it's nervous system control.
  • List the neurological changes that take place with supraspinal, suprasacral and infrasacral spinal cord injuries.
  • Describe the optimal initial bladder management strategies immediately after spinal cord injury, including during spinal shock.
  • List the factors to be considered in bladder training and management during the long-term recovery period after SCI.
  • Anticipate the problem of Autonomic Dysreflexia (AD) after SCI, including triggering factors, signs and symptoms, treatment options and prevention.
  • Discuss the incidence of urinary tract infections after SCI, including causes, signs and symptoms, assessment issues, treatment and prevention.
  

       Diabetes Treatments: Insulin and Oral Drugs (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • State the physiological effects of insulin.
  • Recognize basic elements of the pancreatic beta cell.
  • Compare and contrast insulin preparations based on source, type, and concentration.
  • Identify situations in which insulin is used.
  • Recognize indications for specific insulin products and insulin therapy regimens.
  • State appropriate administration and storage guidelines for insulin.
  • Recognize the advantages and disadvantages of an insulin pump.
  • Identify the mechanism of action, side effects, and clinical use of anti-diabetic oral agents.
  • Describe the use of combination therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes.
  • Recognize the potential impact of interactions with other drugs that are commonly used by persons with diabetes.
  

       Diabetes: Nutrition and Exercise Therapy (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • To recognize medical nutrition goals for people with diabetes.
  • To identify the role of insulin and food sources in nutrition.
  • To discuss the rationale underlying carbohydrate counting and exchange lists.
  • To state adjustments to meal planning that should be made during an acute illness.
  • To recognize the benefits of exercise for persons with diabetes.
  • To identify methods of minimizing exercise induced risk.
  • To state exercise safety recommendations for persons taking antidiabetes agents.
  

       Liver Disease (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Describe the normal anatomy of the liver.
  • Recognize the normal physiologic functions of the liver, including its role in bile formation and secretion, metabolism, vitamin storage, coagulation, and detoxification.
  • Discuss the pathophysiology, and diagnosis of specific pathologic conditions that affect the liver,including cirrhosis, hepatitis, carcinoma, Wilson's disease, alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency, and intrahepatic biliary dysplasia.
  • Recognize complications of liver decompensation, including, portal hypertension, esophageal varices, hepatic encephalopathy, and ascites.
  • State measures to prevent food-borne and blood-borne hepatitis.
  

       Understanding Liver Function Tests  (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify the primary functions of the liver.
  • Recognize types of diseases that cause liver dysfunction.
  • Differentiate between true tests of liver function and tests that are indicators of liver disease.
  • Identify normal values for liver function tests.
  • Recognize the role of albumin in the blood.
  • Describe the purpose of protein electrophoresis.
  • State the purpose of an A/G ratio.
  • Describe the normal pathway for the production and excretion of bilirubin.
  • Differentiate between unconjugated and conjugated bilirubin.
  • Recognize the importance of measuring liver enzymes as indicators of liver damage.
  • Describe the process used during a liver biopsy.
  

       Understanding Renal Function Tests (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Describe the function of the kidney.
  • Identify characteristics of the following degrees of renal dysfunction: diminished renal reserve,renal insufficiency, renal failure, and end-stage renal disease.
  • Identify normal values for the following renal function tests: Blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum and urine creatinine, creatinine clearance, urinary urea nitrogen and nitrogen balance, serum and urine osmolality, serum and urinary uric acid.
  • Compare and contrast factors that affect the BUN and serum creatinine levels.
  • Give examples of changes in serum and urine osmolality and propose appropriate nursing interventions.
  

       Understanding Urinalysis (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Recognize the value of urinalysis as a screening examination for renal and nonrenal diseases.
  • Recognize types of urine specimens and methods of collection.
  • Differentiate between macroscopic and microscopic urine examinations.
  • Identify reference values for a normalurinalysis.
  • Interpret the meaning of abnormal findings on a urinalysis.
  • Recognize nursing diagnoses and propose interventions for patients with abnormal urine test findings.
  

       Urinary Incontinence in the Elderly (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Define urinary incontinence (UI) according to the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research (AHCPR).
  • Estimate the prevalence and cost of urinary incontinence (UI).
  • Describe literature and research of nurses' knowledge of UI in elderly patients.
  • Differentiate between the sudden onset UI and the chronic UI.
  • Identify the characteristics of the 6 types of UI.
  • Recognize history, lab tests, and physical exam pertinent to UI.
  • Describe how a health professional may individualize treatment/service plans for elderly patients in different levels of care.
  • Identify when basic evaluation is not sufficient, and know to whom to refer patients.
  

  Medical/Surgical
       Advances in Multiple Sclerosis (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • To describe the epidemiology, incidence, and prevalence of MS.
  • To identify the etiology and pathophysiology of MS.
  • To state 4 disease course classifications for MS.
  • To describe 10 symptoms commonly experienced by persons with MS.
  • To identify 3 criteria used to establish a diagnosis of MS.
  • To recognize factors associated with more favorable and less favorable prognoses in MS.
  • To state principles of symptoms management for the following symptoms: fatigue, sensory problems and pain, sexual dysfunction, speech and swallowing problems, spasticity and tremor, visual disturbances and vertigo, bladder dysfunction, bowel dysfunction and cognitive impairment.
  • To state care management for acute MS exacerbations.
  • To identify 5 disease-modifying drugs used in MS therapy.
  • To state potential problems with adherence to disease-modifying therapy.
  • To describe psychosocial issues commonly experienced by persons with MS.
  • To state the impact of MS on family functioning.
  • To identify the incidence of MS associated depression.
  • To state principles of treatment for depression for persons with MS.
  • To state the goals of rehabilitation for a person with MS.
  • To identify roles of members of the rehabilitation team.
  • To recognize 5 challenges faced by the rehabilitation health team in providing care for persons with MS.
  

       Analgesic Drugs and Pain Management (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Recognize problems created by under-treating pain and identify individuals who are at greatest risk for having their pain under-treated.
  • Distinguish between nociceptive and neuropathic pain.
  • Identify 3 classifications of analgesic drugs.
  • Recognize how nonopioid analgesics differ from opioid analgesics.
  • Identify the mechanism of action, side effects, and maximum daily dose of acetaminophen.
  • Identify the relationship between aspirin and Reye’s syndrome.
  • Recognize the mechanism of action of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and distinguish between nonselective and selective NSAIDS.
  • Identify common side effects of NSAIDs, ways to prevent and/or manage them and advantages and disadvantages of combining NSAIDs with opioid analgesics.
  • Discuss the concept of "opioid dose sparing."
  • Identify the mechanism of action of mu agonist opioid analgesics.
  • Discuss the concept of "analgesic ceiling."
  • List 3 opioid analgesics that are commonly used to treat severe escalating acute pain.
  • Discuss guidelines for using opioid analgesics and the concept of "titrating to effect" as it applies to opioid analgesics.
  • Recognize the rationale for avoiding using meperidine as an analgesic.
  • Discuss the value of giving analgesics on an around-the-clock rather than on a PRN basis to manage continuous pain.
  • Recognize common side effects associated with opioid analgesics and ways to manage side effects.
  • Recognize ways to assess respiratory depression in patients receiving opioid analgesics.
  • Distinguish among the terms "tolerance," "physical dependency," and "addiction."
  • Identify the percentage of patients who become addicted to opioids when receiving them under medical supervision.
  • Discuss conditions under which the following administration routes for opioid analgesics are used: oral, rectal, subcutaneous, intramuscular, intravenous, transdermal, and intrathecal.
  • Recognize nursing considerations for patients receiving opioid analgesics and identify ways in which patients receiving opioids can minimize adverse effects.
  • Discuss the mechanism of action of antidepressants and anticonvulsants in relation to pain management.
  • Evaluate the effect of the CDC opioid guidelines on your nursing practice.
  

       Antiretroviral Drugs for HIV and AIDS (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Recognize how HIV affects the immune system.
  • Describe how HIV is transmitted.
  • Identify the signs and symptoms of HIV infection and AIDS.
  • List AIDS-defining illnesses.
  • Discuss how the following classifications of antiretroviral drugs work: Nucleoside analogue reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), Protease inhibitors (PIs), Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs), Fusion inhibitors (FIs)
  • Describe factors involved in starting HIV drug treatment.
  • Identify the goal of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART).
  • Discuss the use of antiretroviral drugs during pregnancy.
  • Identify "black box" warnings for specific antiretroviral drugs.
  • Identify the influence of food, herbs, and drugs on antiretroviral therapy.
  • Discuss 3 types of antiretroviral regimen failure.
  • State 2 reasons why adherence to antiretroviral drug therapy is crucial.
  • Recognize ways healthcare professionals can help patients adhere to antiretroviral therapy.
  • Identify the meaning of the following terms: HIV infection, AIDS, AIDS defining illnesses, CD4+T cells, DNA, RNA, Nucleic acid, Reverse transcriptase, retrovirus, viral load, HAART.
  

       Biological Warfare: Diseases As Weapons (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • State information related to preparing for an incidence of bioterrorism including clues to bioterrorism attack and the signs, symptoms, modes of transmission of high-priority agents of bioterrorism.
  • State information related to reporting of an incidence of bioterrorism, including the ways to contact the proper authorities and correctly document the incidence of bioterrorism.
  • State information related to the implementation of decontamination procedures, the identification of treatment locations and treatment personnel, the acquisition of treatment-related supplies, the awareness of any facility-organized response plans, and the development of a patient care plan to address the situation.
  • Recognize the potential threat of the release of biological diseases/agents to the United States population.
  • Describe Category A, B, and C biological treats as classified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
  • Identify 4 rationales for the assignment of biological diseases/agents to a Category A classification.
  • Identify the potential as a biological weapon, epidemiology, clinical course, and disease management for the following: Anthrax, Botulism, Plague, Smallpox, Tularemia, Viral hemorrhagic fever.
  

       Bladder Management after Spinal Cord Injury (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Understand the basic relationship between spinal cord injury and problems with the urinary system and bladder function.
  • Explain the basic process of normal urination, including the anatomy and physiology of the bladder and it's nervous system control.
  • List the neurological changes that take place with supraspinal, suprasacral and infrasacral spinal cord injuries.
  • Describe the optimal initial bladder management strategies immediately after spinal cord injury, including during spinal shock.
  • List the factors to be considered in bladder training and management during the long-term recovery period after SCI.
  • Anticipate the problem of Autonomic Dysreflexia (AD) after SCI, including triggering factors, signs and symptoms, treatment options and prevention.
  • Discuss the incidence of urinary tract infections after SCI, including causes, signs and symptoms, assessment issues, treatment and prevention.
  

       Breast Cancer in situ (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Define breast carcinoma in situ (DCIS and LCIS).
  • List the breast cancer in situ subtypes and grading.
  • Discuss risk factors of DCIS and LCIS.
  • Differentiate between different biopsy methods.
  • Describe the typical treatments.
  • Explain the factors that influence the prognosis of DCIS and LCIS.
  • Suggest several factors that may influence successful follow-up.
  • Instruct patients on ways to reduce anxiety.
  

       Cancer Chemotherapy (5 contact hours for $20 )
     
  • To recognize 3 goals for the use of cytotoxic drugs in cancer treatment.
  • To identify and describe the phases of the cell life cycle.
  • To identify the advantages of combining cytotoxic drugs in cancer treatment.
  • To recognize 5 classifications of alkylating drugs.
  • To identify four types of biologic biological therapies used in cancer treatment.
  • To describe adjuvant, induction, consolidation, and maintenance cytotoxic drug regimens in cancer treatment.
  • To identity potential toxicities for frequently used cytotoxic drugs.
  • To describe 3 types of vascular access devices for the administration of cytotoxic drugs.
  • To identify the effects of chemotherapy and management strategies related to the following body systems: Hematopoeitic, Integumentary, Gastrointestinal, Cardiovascular, Neurological, Respiratory, Reproductive, and Urological.
  • To recognize symptoms of hypersensitivity reactions associated with cancer chemotherapy.
  • To state 6 goals for patient/family education when a patient is receiving cytotoxic drugs.
  • To describe 3 phases of clinical trials in cancer drug development.
  • To identify cancer chemotherapy resources for health care professionals and patients.
  

       Cerebral Palsy in Children (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify key characteristics of the four classic presentations of cerebral palsy.
  • Describe prenatal and pregnancy-related risk factors associated with cerebral palsy.
  • Discuss diagnostic tests used to establish a diagnosis of cerebral palsy.
  • List physical disabilities, developmental delays, and medical issues commonly associated with cerebral palsy in children.
  • Outline currently-accepted treatment modalities for children with cerebral palsy.
  • State professional recommendations regarding complementary and alternative treatments for children with cerebral palsy.
  • Describe the developmental and educational systems established to meet the needs of children with cerebral palsy, and identify the role of nurses in these settings.
  • Discuss effective case management for children with cerebral palsy, including implications of special needs trusts.
  • Discuss prognostic indicators that impact quality of life for children with cerebral palsy.
  • Identify appropriate online and print resources for professionals who work with children with cerebral palsy.
  • List appropriate online and print references, as well as support agencies, for parents of children with cerebral palsy.
  

       Child Abuse (3 contact hours for $12 )
      This course includes descriptions of four aspects of child abuse: neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse and emotional abuse. Emphasis in this course will be on:
  • detection of abused children
  • assessment of injuries and signs and symptoms
  • causes
  • long term effects
  • preventive measures
  • parent education
  • laws, mechanisms and the duty of nurses to report child abuse
  

       Children with Down Syndrome (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify specific neurological, sensory, orthopedic, cardiac, respiratory, autoimmune, mental health, dental, and oncological health risks of children with Down syndrome, and describe appropriate nursing interventions related to these risks.
  • Cite the health care guidelines established by the National Down Syndrome Society for children with Down syndrome, and highlight nursing interventions to address these guidelines.
  • Identify specific recommendations for feeding and nutrition in youngsters with Down syndrome.
  • Discuss appropriate weight management strategies and physical activities for children with Down syndrome.
  • Describe developmental issues specific to children with Down syndrome, and identify beneficial therapies.
  • Outline services provided to children with Down syndrome through the early intervention program.
  • Identify supports available to children with Down syndrome through the public educational system and state services.
  

       Diabetes Treatments: Insulin and Oral Drugs (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • State the physiological effects of insulin.
  • Recognize basic elements of the pancreatic beta cell.
  • Compare and contrast insulin preparations based on source, type, and concentration.
  • Identify situations in which insulin is used.
  • Recognize indications for specific insulin products and insulin therapy regimens.
  • State appropriate administration and storage guidelines for insulin.
  • Recognize the advantages and disadvantages of an insulin pump.
  • Identify the mechanism of action, side effects, and clinical use of anti-diabetic oral agents.
  • Describe the use of combination therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes.
  • Recognize the potential impact of interactions with other drugs that are commonly used by persons with diabetes.
  

       Diabetes: Nutrition and Exercise Therapy (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • To recognize medical nutrition goals for people with diabetes.
  • To identify the role of insulin and food sources in nutrition.
  • To discuss the rationale underlying carbohydrate counting and exchange lists.
  • To state adjustments to meal planning that should be made during an acute illness.
  • To recognize the benefits of exercise for persons with diabetes.
  • To identify methods of minimizing exercise induced risk.
  • To state exercise safety recommendations for persons taking antidiabetes agents.
  

       Evidence Based Fall Prevention  (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify and describe five types of falls
  • List the five levels of injuries scale established by National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators.
  • Describe the scope of inpatient fall injury and death that occurs in U.S. acute care hospitals.
  • List patient characteristics that are common in patients at high risk for fall.
  • Identify the major validated fall risk assessment tools used in hospitals.
  • Explain the components of a falls risk program to a patient.
  

       Heart Failure: Prevalence and Prevention (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Describe the prevalence of heart failure.
  • Compare the three classification systems for HF.
  • Describe risk factors that predispose patients to HF.
  • Discuss the Renal Angiotensin Aldosterone System as a target for pharmacologic intervention.
  • Discuss pharmacologic and interventional strategies used to manage the effects of cardiac remodeling caused by hypertension, atherosclerosis, asymptomatic valve disease, substance abuse, etc
  • Contrast the effects of concentric remodeling with the effects of eccentric remodeling.
  

       Heart Failure: Psychological constructs (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify the psychological constructs that increase the risk of heart failure (HF).
  • Discuss the identification of depression in nursing assessments.
  • Describe treatment options for depression and anxiety to prevent heart failure.
  • Describe a patient interaction that promotes positive well-being.
  • Apply principles of Positive Psychology to prevent HF in patients at risk for HF.
  • Discuss the relationship between an optimistic view and pessimistic one on quality of life of patient with HF.
  • List three quality of life measurements used with patients who have HF.
  

       Hemodynamic Monitoring: An Introduction (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Discuss cardiac physiology as it relates to blood flow and hemodynamic monitoring.
  • Understand the terminology and normal values associated with hemodynamic monitoring.
  • Review methods of noninvasive hemodynamic monitoring.
  • Describe components, and purposes, of invasive monitoring, including arterial, central venous and pulmonary artery catheters.
  • Discuss issues related to nursing care for patients with invasive hemodynamic catheters.
  

       Hepatitis C: Prevention, Assessment & Treatment (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Describe hepatitis C (HCV) and the mode of transmission.
  • Discuss the history of HCV.
  • Discuss the infectious process and genotypes.
  • List and describe 6 to 9 risk factors for HCV.
  • List 4 different types of HCV assessment tests and applications.
  • List and describe 5 to 8 primary symptoms/complications of HCV.
  • List and describe 3 types of treatment for HCV.
  • List and describe 5 to 7 prevention methods.
  

       High Altitude Sickness (2 contact hours for $8 )
     
  • Define high altitude sickness.
  • Describe the body’s acclimatization process.
  • List the 3 primary types of acute mountain sickness (AMS).
  • List 2 additional forms of altitude sickness.
  • Describe the symptoms of mild, moderate, and severe AMS.
  • Discuss symptoms and treatment for high altitude cerebral edema (HACE).
  • Discuss symptoms and treatment for high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE).
  • List 3 medications used to treat High Altitude Sickness.
  • Describe the use of portable hyperbaric chambers.
  • Discuss high altitude effects on pre-existing conditions and contraindications for travel to high altitudes.
  • List 5 preventive measures against developing high altitude sickness.
  

       HIV/AIDS Update for Nurses (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Describe various modes of transmission for HIV/AIDS.
  • Distinguish between different tests for HIV/AIDS.
  • Describe treatment and clinical management choices.
  • Recognize risk factors.
  • Describe prevention and infection control procedures.
  • Discuss Florida law on AIDS and the impact on testing, confidentiality, and treatment.
  • List Florida resources for persons/families with HIV/AIDS.
  

       HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders (HAND) (2 contact hours for $8 )
     
  • Compare the AIDS/HIV statistics between the United States and the World, men and women, different races and sexual preferences.
  • Review symptoms of HIV related cognitive impairment.
  • List five intervention strategies for managing motor and behavior changes.
  • Describe the origin of, and management of, challenging behaviors exhibited by persons with HIV.
  • Identify the three cognitive symptoms of AIDS Dementia Complex.
  

       Hospice Care (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Contrast the patient services provided by hospice care with those provided by Palliative care.
  • Describe the roles and functions of a hospice care team members.
  • Describe the services provided under the Hospice Medicare Benefit.
  • Discuss the levels of pain and their treatments often experienced by hospice patients.
  • Discuss emotional, psychosocial, spiritual and family issues related to end of life.
  • Discuss the ethical foundation of the patient's right to refuse life-sustaining treatment.
  • Discuss the significance of a living will, health care surrogate, and durable power of attorney for hospice patients.
  

       Human Trafficking (4 contact hours for $0 )
     
  • Describe the types of human trafficking.
  • Describe the incidence of human trafficking and laws in your own state.
  • IIdentify individuals at greater risk of being a victim of human trafficking.
  • Identify valid assessment tools and indicators for identifying a human trafficking victim.
  • Describe signs and symptoms indicate a person may be a victim of human trafficking.
  • Use hotlines for reporting human trafficking at the National Human Trafficking Resource Center.
  • Use appropriate referral centers for legal and social services.
  

       Hypo/Hyperthermia in the Elderly (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Recognize why elderly patients have changes in body temperature regulation that make them susceptible to both hypothermia and hyperthermia.
  • Identify specific risk factors for hypothermia in the elderly.
  • Describe signs and symptoms of hypothermia.
  • Identify treatment for hypothermia.
  • List ways in which the elderly and their families/caregivers can reduce the risk of hypothermia.
  • Identify specific risk factors for hyperthermia in the elderly.
  • Recognize 5 categories of drugs that can increase hyperthermia risk in elderly patients.
  • Distinguish between heat stress, heat fatigue, heat syncope, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
  • Describe signs and symptoms of hyperthermia.
  • Identify treatment for hyperthermia.
  • List ways in which the elderly and their families/caregivers can reduce the risk of hyperthermia.
  

       Infection Control (3 contact hours for $12 )
      Upon completion of this course, the participant will be able to:
  • Evaluate the scope, risk, suffering and cost of preventable healthcare associated infections (HAI).
  • Recognize and redress conditions that enhance the proliferation and transmission of common pathogens associated with HAI.
  • Evaluate an infectious disease in terms of the Chain of infection.
  • Apply the appropriate levels of the Hierarchy of Controls.
  • Apply standard precautions and transmission precautions to minimize patient and healthcare worker risk from infectious disease.
  

       Influenza: Not Just a Bad Cold (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • List high risk groups for flu and prevalence of the disease.
  • Define "pandemic" and state when they have occurred in the last century.
  • Describe the significance of a flu epidemic to the health care system in the U.S.
  • List the 3 types of flu.
  • Differentiate between antigenic drift and antigenic shift.
  • State the main method of flu transmission.
  • Differentiate between the signs and symptoms of a cold and the flu.
  • List diagnostic tests for influenza.
  • Identify some reliable strategies for influenza prevention in the health care setting.
  • Differentiate between different vaccine types and list indications and contraindications for each.
  • Describe respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette in healthcare settings.
  • List the basic drugs used for influenza antiviral treatment and the groups most likely to receive this treatment.
  • Describe basic uncomplicated flu treatment.
  

       Inhalant Abuse: Nursing Implications (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Define inhalants.
  • Identify classes and examples of inhalants.
  • Recognize reasons why youths are using inhalants.
  • Describe the characteristics of a youth likely to start using.
  • Recognize inhalant research regarding gender and ethnicity.
  • Describe methods of inhalation and the most frequent site of usage.
  • Describe the effects of inhalants on the body.
  • Define inhalant intoxication, withdrawal, tolerance and addiction.
  • Describe the assessment process.
  • Identify emergency treatment.
  • Recognize fatal and long-term consequences of inhaling.
  • Correlate the relationship of inhalant abuse and delinquent behavior.
  • Describe keys to prevent inhalant abuse.
  

       Liver Disease (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Describe the normal anatomy of the liver.
  • Recognize the normal physiologic functions of the liver, including its role in bile formation and secretion, metabolism, vitamin storage, coagulation, and detoxification.
  • Discuss the pathophysiology, and diagnosis of specific pathologic conditions that affect the liver,including cirrhosis, hepatitis, carcinoma, Wilson's disease, alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency, and intrahepatic biliary dysplasia.
  • Recognize complications of liver decompensation, including, portal hypertension, esophageal varices, hepatic encephalopathy, and ascites.
  • State measures to prevent food-borne and blood-borne hepatitis.
  

       Medical Error: What You Need to Know (2 contact hours for $8 )
     
  • Identify "culture of safety" principles that can reduce human error and improve patient safety.
  • Discuss the scope of adverse events associated with health care in the United States.
  • Identify institutional barriers and other factors that impact the occurrence of medical errors.
  • Differentiate between Root-Cause Analysis and Failure Mode and Effects Analysis.
  • Compare the factors of human error and systems failure as causes of adverse events.
  • Recognize error-prone practice settings and situations.
  • Identify three common medication errors.
  • Discuss at least three ways medication errors can be prevented.
  • Clarify current responsibilities for reporting errors and "near-misses."
  • Suggest processes to improve patient outcome.
  • Recognize and discuss safety needs of special and/or high risk populations.
  • Discuss needs and methods for public education.
  

       Methamphetamine Use: What You Need to Know  (5 contact hours for $20 )
     
  • Recognize the extent of methamphetamine use in the United States.
  • Describe the forms of "meth."
  • Describe the various methods to ingest methamphetamine.
  • Identify sources of methamphetamine in the United States.
  • Describe the pharmacological action of methamphetamine.
  • Compare and contrast methamphetamine and cocaine.
  • Describe patterns of methamphetamine use.
  • List cardiovascular and other systemic effects from methamphetamine use.
  • Identify fetal, maternal and neonatal effects from meth exposure during pregnancy.
  • Identify the drug of choice for treating "meth" psychosis. List side effects of this medication.
  • List 8 potential long term effects from methamphetamine use.
  • Identify common components of treatment programs.
  

       Near-Death and Other Transpersonal Experiences (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • I Identify five archetypal transpersonal experiences surrounding death and dying
  • Describe four ancillary phenomena experience near the time of death..
  • Discuss research studies on the incidence, veridicality, and effects of these experiences
  • List the clinical impact of these experiences on the patient and family members.
  • Describe therapeutic approaches that can assist the patient and family to reconcile their subjective and objective experiences..
  • Identify key components of these experiences relevant to the medical record.
  

       Obesity: Etiology, Assessment, Medical Treatment (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify obesity risks in adults and children
  • Identify the comorbidities of obesity
  • Identify the statistical risks associated with obesity
  • Discuss the training and infrastructure requirements to safely care for obese patients
  • Describe the most common types of bariatric surgery used in the US
  • Identify the malnutrition risks to the patient after surgery
  

       Otitis Media in Children (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Describe the primary population affected by otitis media.
  • Estimate the cost of otitis media.
  • Review the normal pediatric auditory anatomy.
  • Describe the anatomy and physiology of the middle ear.
  • List the functions of the eustachian tube (ET).
  • Associate the anatomical structures in and near the eustachian tube with ET functions.
  • Relate the ways that fluid enters and leaves the ET with changes in pressure and risk of disease.
  • Describe the differences between pediatric and adult auditory anatomy.
  • Differentiate between AOM and OME.
  • List the three primary pathogens isolated from the middle ear. .
  • List hereditary and racial factors contributing to the development of OM.
  • List environmental factors contributing to the development of OM.
  • Describe the benefit of pneumatic otoscopy.
  • List two methods of collecting indirect evidence of middle ear fluid.
  • List two methods of collecting direct evidence of middle ear fluid.
  • Suggest a logical sequence for performing an auditory physical assessment of a child.
  • Describe the medical treatment of AOM and OME.
  • List the first and second line antibiotics.
  • Describe some of the surgical treatments of OM.
  • Suggest some preventive measures against contracting OM.
  

       PICC Line Care and Maintenance (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Describe the indications and contraindications of PICC lines.
  • Relate anatomical considerations in PICC line placement.
  • Discuss PICC line complications.
  • Explain care and management of the PICC line, including dressing change, cap change, flushing the catheter, and catheter removal.
  • Anticipate appropriate patient education associated with PICC lines, and formulate an applicable nursing care plan.
  

       Pneumonia: Assessment and Intervention (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify pathogens associated with community-acquired and hospital-acquired pneumonia.
  • Understand the basic pathophysiology of pneumonia.
  • Identify several risk factors associated with CAP and HAP.
  • Describe the most common signs and symptoms of pneumonia.
  • Describe the pneumonia assessment process as you would for a patient.
  • Educate patients and family member on prevention strategies for CAP.
  

       Respiratory Assessment: Adult and Child (5 contact hours for $20 )
     
  • Recognize the principal structures of the respiratory system.
  • Describe the function of the respiratory system.
  • State 6 significant respiratory symptoms.
  • Identify 4 techniques used in a respiratory assessment.
  • Describe normal assessment findings for chest inspection.
  • Recognize disturbances in breathing rate and rhythm.
  • Describe normal assessment findings for chest palpation.
  • Describe normal assessment findings for chest percussion.
  • Differentiate among the following sounds heard and felt on percussion: resonant sounds; flat sounds; dull sounds; hyperresonant sounds; and tympanic sounds.
  • Describe normal assessment findings for chest auscultation.
  • Describe the characteristics and implications of the following abnormal breath sounds:crackles or rales; wheezes, rhonchi, stridor.
  • Describe the implications of the following transmitted voice sounds: whispered pectoriloquy,bronchophony, egophony.
  • Describe expected assessment findings for the following respiratory diseases: atelectasis,pneumonia, bronchitis, emphysema, pleural effusion,pneumothorax.
  • Recognize techniques that are helpful in doing a respiratory assessment on a child.
  

       Telephone Triage (3 contact hours for $12 )
      This course offers a synopsis of telephone triage nursing.  It provides a general review of education requirements, salaries, fundamental skills, and an outline of training needed for specialty areas.
  

       Urinary Incontinence in the Elderly (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Define urinary incontinence (UI) according to the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research (AHCPR).
  • Estimate the prevalence and cost of urinary incontinence (UI).
  • Describe literature and research of nurses' knowledge of UI in elderly patients.
  • Differentiate between the sudden onset UI and the chronic UI.
  • Identify the characteristics of the 6 types of UI.
  • Recognize history, lab tests, and physical exam pertinent to UI.
  • Describe how a health professional may individualize treatment/service plans for elderly patients in different levels of care.
  • Identify when basic evaluation is not sufficient, and know to whom to refer patients.
  

       West Nile Virus (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Describe the epidemiology of West Nile virus (WNV).
  • List and describe 3 tests used for diagnosis of WNV.
  • Describe the transmission cycle.
  • Discuss 6 modes of transmission.
  • List and describe 3 different classes of WNV infection.
  • Describe West Nile Fever.
  • List and describe 3 types of severe neurological disorders.
  • Discuss the differences among meningitis, encephalitis, and acute flaccid paralysis.
  • Describe treatment that is currently available and being used in clinical trials.
  • List 2 common medications for CHF management and discuss actions of each medication, pediatric dosages and precautions.
  • Discuss risk factors.
  • Discuss 4 types of preventive measures.
  • Describe 4 types of insect repellents and guidelines for use.
  

       Wound care (3 contact hours for $12 )
      •Describe the anatomy and physiology of the skin relevant to wound healing, •Identify five common types of wounds, •Describe the four stages of wound healing, •Carry out a wound assessment, •Identify five factors that can influence wound healing, •Apply appropriate pain management strategies.
  

  Pediatric/Perinatal
       Abusive Head Trauma / Shaken Baby Syndrome (3 contact hours for $12 )
      Upon completion of this course, the learner will be able to:
  • Present knowledge of the incidence, mortality and morbidity associated with Abusive Head Trauma (AHT).
  • Consider the leading precipitating factors in AHT when assessing a child.
  • Describe the mechanism of injury in Abusive Head Trauma
  • Report a child with signs and symptoms of AHT.
  • Initiate education of parents about preventing AHT.
  

       Adolescent Substance Use (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Recognize the factors that make the topic of substance use so emotionally intense.
  • Recognize common behavioral signs of substance use.
  • Explain screening tools and brief interventions for adolescents.
  • Identify the effects of popular street drugs today.
  • Recognize the problems of poly drug use in youth.
  • Explain the relationship between mental illness and drug use.
  • Describe risk-taking as a developmental task.
  • Differentiate a temporary drug-related psychosis from a true psychosis.
  • Understand the possible consequences of failure to elicit information about drug use.
  • Explain the effects of drug/substance use on the developing brain.
  

       Animated Cardiac Development (2 contact hours for $8 )
     
  • Describe the primitive cardiac tube, and its early growth in length, shape and function.
  • Differentiate the early structures that transform the single chamber into the four chambered pump.
  • Associate the openings between the heart's early chambers, andthe walls that eventually separate those chambers.
  • Describe the tissue growth that separates venous from arterial blood flow.
  • Relate embyrological events to potential cardiac defects in the fetus and newborn.
  

       Cerebral Palsy in Children (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify key characteristics of the four classic presentations of cerebral palsy.
  • Describe prenatal and pregnancy-related risk factors associated with cerebral palsy.
  • Discuss diagnostic tests used to establish a diagnosis of cerebral palsy.
  • List physical disabilities, developmental delays, and medical issues commonly associated with cerebral palsy in children.
  • Outline currently-accepted treatment modalities for children with cerebral palsy.
  • State professional recommendations regarding complementary and alternative treatments for children with cerebral palsy.
  • Describe the developmental and educational systems established to meet the needs of children with cerebral palsy, and identify the role of nurses in these settings.
  • Discuss effective case management for children with cerebral palsy, including implications of special needs trusts.
  • Discuss prognostic indicators that impact quality of life for children with cerebral palsy.
  • Identify appropriate online and print resources for professionals who work with children with cerebral palsy.
  • List appropriate online and print references, as well as support agencies, for parents of children with cerebral palsy.
  

       Child Abuse (3 contact hours for $12 )
      This course includes descriptions of four aspects of child abuse: neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse and emotional abuse. Emphasis in this course will be on:
  • detection of abused children
  • assessment of injuries and signs and symptoms
  • causes
  • long term effects
  • preventive measures
  • parent education
  • laws, mechanisms and the duty of nurses to report child abuse
  

       Children with Down Syndrome (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Identify specific neurological, sensory, orthopedic, cardiac, respiratory, autoimmune, mental health, dental, and oncological health risks of children with Down syndrome, and describe appropriate nursing interventions related to these risks.
  • Cite the health care guidelines established by the National Down Syndrome Society for children with Down syndrome, and highlight nursing interventions to address these guidelines.
  • Identify specific recommendations for feeding and nutrition in youngsters with Down syndrome.
  • Discuss appropriate weight management strategies and physical activities for children with Down syndrome.
  • Describe developmental issues specific to children with Down syndrome, and identify beneficial therapies.
  • Outline services provided to children with Down syndrome through the early intervention program.
  • Identify supports available to children with Down syndrome through the public educational system and state services.
  

       Influenza: Not Just a Bad Cold (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • List high risk groups for flu and prevalence of the disease.
  • Define "pandemic" and state when they have occurred in the last century.
  • Describe the significance of a flu epidemic to the health care system in the U.S.
  • List the 3 types of flu.
  • Differentiate between antigenic drift and antigenic shift.
  • State the main method of flu transmission.
  • Differentiate between the signs and symptoms of a cold and the flu.
  • List diagnostic tests for influenza.
  • Identify some reliable strategies for influenza prevention in the health care setting.
  • Differentiate between different vaccine types and list indications and contraindications for each.
  • Describe respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette in healthcare settings.
  • List the basic drugs used for influenza antiviral treatment and the groups most likely to receive this treatment.
  • Describe basic uncomplicated flu treatment.
  

       Inhalant Abuse: Nursing Implications (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Define inhalants.
  • Identify classes and examples of inhalants.
  • Recognize reasons why youths are using inhalants.
  • Describe the characteristics of a youth likely to start using.
  • Recognize inhalant research regarding gender and ethnicity.
  • Describe methods of inhalation and the most frequent site of usage.
  • Describe the effects of inhalants on the body.
  • Define inhalant intoxication, withdrawal, tolerance and addiction.
  • Describe the assessment process.
  • Identify emergency treatment.
  • Recognize fatal and long-term consequences of inhaling.
  • Correlate the relationship of inhalant abuse and delinquent behavior.
  • Describe keys to prevent inhalant abuse.
  

       Methamphetamine Use: What You Need to Know  (5 contact hours for $20 )
     
  • Recognize the extent of methamphetamine use in the United States.
  • Describe the forms of "meth."
  • Describe the various methods to ingest methamphetamine.
  • Identify sources of methamphetamine in the United States.
  • Describe the pharmacological action of methamphetamine.
  • Compare and contrast methamphetamine and cocaine.
  • Describe patterns of methamphetamine use.
  • List cardiovascular and other systemic effects from methamphetamine use.
  • Identify fetal, maternal and neonatal effects from meth exposure during pregnancy.
  • Identify the drug of choice for treating "meth" psychosis. List side effects of this medication.
  • List 8 potential long term effects from methamphetamine use.
  • Identify common components of treatment programs.
  

       Otitis Media in Children (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Describe the primary population affected by otitis media.
  • Estimate the cost of otitis media.
  • Review the normal pediatric auditory anatomy.
  • Describe the anatomy and physiology of the middle ear.
  • List the functions of the eustachian tube (ET).
  • Associate the anatomical structures in and near the eustachian tube with ET functions.
  • Relate the ways that fluid enters and leaves the ET with changes in pressure and risk of disease.
  • Describe the differences between pediatric and adult auditory anatomy.
  • Differentiate between AOM and OME.
  • List the three primary pathogens isolated from the middle ear. .
  • List hereditary and racial factors contributing to the development of OM.
  • List environmental factors contributing to the development of OM.
  • Describe the benefit of pneumatic otoscopy.
  • List two methods of collecting indirect evidence of middle ear fluid.
  • List two methods of collecting direct evidence of middle ear fluid.
  • Suggest a logical sequence for performing an auditory physical assessment of a child.
  • Describe the medical treatment of AOM and OME.
  • List the first and second line antibiotics.
  • Describe some of the surgical treatments of OM.
  • Suggest some preventive measures against contracting OM.
  

       PSVT in the Pediatric Patient (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Define PSVT.
  • Specify prevalence of PSVT in pediatric population, and age of onset.
  • Compare EKG characteristics of pediatric PSVT with normal pediatric EKG.
  • Compare and contrast normal cardiac conduction with abnormal conduction processes.
  • Explain two common mechanisms of initiation of PSVT.
  • Explain mechanism of WPW in relation to initiation of PSVT and describe how WPW is diagnosed and treated in the pediatric patient.
  • List elements of clinicalpresentation of PSVT in the infant, child and adolescent. Compare well-compensated patient to one who is displaying severe symptoms.
  • Describe severalself-treatments a child and family can be taught to convert PSVT to normal rhythm.
  • Describe immediate life support and diagnostic measures necessary for the child with symptomatic PSVT.
  • Identify medications and other treatments used in treatment of PSVT, their dosages, indications and side-effects.
  • Compare and contrast developmental issues of child and pre-adolescent to older adolescent receiving treatment for PSVT. Specify recommended provider behaviors in each case.
  

       Respiratory Assessment: Adult and Child (5 contact hours for $20 )
     
  • Recognize the principal structures of the respiratory system.
  • Describe the function of the respiratory system.
  • State 6 significant respiratory symptoms.
  • Identify 4 techniques used in a respiratory assessment.
  • Describe normal assessment findings for chest inspection.
  • Recognize disturbances in breathing rate and rhythm.
  • Describe normal assessment findings for chest palpation.
  • Describe normal assessment findings for chest percussion.
  • Differentiate among the following sounds heard and felt on percussion: resonant sounds; flat sounds; dull sounds; hyperresonant sounds; and tympanic sounds.
  • Describe normal assessment findings for chest auscultation.
  • Describe the characteristics and implications of the following abnormal breath sounds:crackles or rales; wheezes, rhonchi, stridor.
  • Describe the implications of the following transmitted voice sounds: whispered pectoriloquy,bronchophony, egophony.
  • Describe expected assessment findings for the following respiratory diseases: atelectasis,pneumonia, bronchitis, emphysema, pleural effusion,pneumothorax.
  • Recognize techniques that are helpful in doing a respiratory assessment on a child.
  

       Telephone Triage (3 contact hours for $12 )
      This course offers a synopsis of telephone triage nursing.  It provides a general review of education requirements, salaries, fundamental skills, and an outline of training needed for specialty areas.
  

       VSD: Effects, Assessment and Treatment (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Describe the anatomy of the normal heart with respect to blood flow to and from the lungs.
  • Compare cyanotic heart defects with acyanotic heart defects.
  • Specify prevalence of ventricular septal defect (VSD) in the population.
  • Compare and contrast the flow of blood in the normal heart with blood flow in the heart affected by VSD.
  • Describe early effects of large VSDs; include reasons why children with VSD are prone to congestive heart failure (CHF).
  • Distinguish later effects of large VSDs.
  • Explain why VSDs in newborns are often not evident.
  • List diagnostic tools used to assess VSD.
  • List symptoms of congestive heart failure (CHF) in children.
  • List 2 common medications for CHF management and discuss actions of each medication, pediatric dosages and precautions.
  • Describe a palliative therapy for VSD.
  • Describe definitive therapy for VSD including risks and benefits.
  

  State-Specific Courses
       Abusive Head Trauma / Shaken Baby Syndrome (3 contact hours for $12 )
      Upon completion of this course, the learner will be able to:
  • Present knowledge of the incidence, mortality and morbidity associated with Abusive Head Trauma (AHT).
  • Consider the leading precipitating factors in AHT when assessing a child.
  • Describe the mechanism of injury in Abusive Head Trauma
  • Report a child with signs and symptoms of AHT.
  • Initiate education of parents about preventing AHT.
  

       Addressing Colleague Impairment (3 contact hours for $12 )
      Upon completion of this course the learner will be able to:
  • Define nurse impairment
  • Recognize signs of impairment in co-workers and others
  • Describe the mandatory reporting law in Florida.
  • Identify options for treatment of impaired nurses.
  • Describe options for workplace education and support for the impaired nurse.
  • Visualize the procedures for reporting an impaired coworker in your workplace.
  

       Analgesic Drugs and Pain Management (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Recognize problems created by under-treating pain and identify individuals who are at greatest risk for having their pain under-treated.
  • Distinguish between nociceptive and neuropathic pain.
  • Identify 3 classifications of analgesic drugs.
  • Recognize how nonopioid analgesics differ from opioid analgesics.
  • Identify the mechanism of action, side effects, and maximum daily dose of acetaminophen.
  • Identify the relationship between aspirin and Reye’s syndrome.
  • Recognize the mechanism of action of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and distinguish between nonselective and selective NSAIDS.
  • Identify common side effects of NSAIDs, ways to prevent and/or manage them and advantages and disadvantages of combining NSAIDs with opioid analgesics.
  • Discuss the concept of "opioid dose sparing."
  • Identify the mechanism of action of mu agonist opioid analgesics.
  • Discuss the concept of "analgesic ceiling."
  • List 3 opioid analgesics that are commonly used to treat severe escalating acute pain.
  • Discuss guidelines for using opioid analgesics and the concept of "titrating to effect" as it applies to opioid analgesics.
  • Recognize the rationale for avoiding using meperidine as an analgesic.
  • Discuss the value of giving analgesics on an around-the-clock rather than on a PRN basis to manage continuous pain.
  • Recognize common side effects associated with opioid analgesics and ways to manage side effects.
  • Recognize ways to assess respiratory depression in patients receiving opioid analgesics.
  • Distinguish among the terms "tolerance," "physical dependency," and "addiction."
  • Identify the percentage of patients who become addicted to opioids when receiving them under medical supervision.
  • Discuss conditions under which the following administration routes for opioid analgesics are used: oral, rectal, subcutaneous, intramuscular, intravenous, transdermal, and intrathecal.
  • Recognize nursing considerations for patients receiving opioid analgesics and identify ways in which patients receiving opioids can minimize adverse effects.
  • Discuss the mechanism of action of antidepressants and anticonvulsants in relation to pain management.
  • Evaluate the effect of the CDC opioid guidelines on your nursing practice.
  

       Antiretroviral Drugs for HIV and AIDS (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • Recognize how HIV affects the immune system.
  • Describe how HIV is transmitted.
  • Identify the signs and symptoms of HIV infection and AIDS.
  • List AIDS-defining illnesses.
  • Discuss how the following classifications of antiretroviral drugs work: Nucleoside analogue reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), Protease inhibitors (PIs), Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs), Fusion inhibitors (FIs)
  • Describe factors involved in starting HIV drug treatment.
  • Identify the goal of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART).
  • Discuss the use of antiretroviral drugs during pregnancy.
  • Identify "black box" warnings for specific antiretroviral drugs.
  • Identify the influence of food, herbs, and drugs on antiretroviral therapy.
  • Discuss 3 types of antiretroviral regimen failure.
  • State 2 reasons why adherence to antiretroviral drug therapy is crucial.
  • Recognize ways healthcare professionals can help patients adhere to antiretroviral therapy.
  • Identify the meaning of the following terms: HIV infection, AIDS, AIDS defining illnesses, CD4+T cells, DNA, RNA, Nucleic acid, Reverse transcriptase, retrovirus, viral load, HAART.
  

       Biological Warfare: Diseases As Weapons (4 contact hours for $16 )
     
  • State information related to preparing for an incidence of bioterrorism including clues to bioterrorism attack and the signs, symptoms, modes of transmission of high-priority agents of bioterrorism.
  • State information related to reporting of an incidence of bioterrorism, including the ways to contact the proper authorities and correctly document the incidence of bioterrorism.
  • State information related to the implementation of decontamination procedures, the identification of treatment locations and treatment personnel, the acquisition of treatment-related supplies, the awareness of any facility-organized response plans, and the development of a patient care plan to address the situation.
  • Recognize the potential threat of the release of biological diseases/agents to the United States population.
  • Describe Category A, B, and C biological treats as classified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
  • Identify 4 rationales for the assignment of biological diseases/agents to a Category A classification.
  • Identify the potential as a biological weapon, epidemiology, clinical course, and disease management for the following: Anthrax, Botulism, Plague, Smallpox, Tularemia, Viral hemorrhagic fever.
  

       Child Abuse (3 contact hours for $12 )
      This course includes descriptions of four aspects of child abuse: neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse and emotional abuse. Emphasis in this course will be on:
  • detection of abused children
  • assessment of injuries and signs and symptoms
  • causes
  • long term effects
  • preventive measures
  • parent education
  • laws, mechanisms and the duty of nurses to report child abuse
  

       Domestic Violence Update for Nurses (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Define domestic/intimate partner violence.
  • Discuss the prevalence of abuse, and consider the numbers of patients in his/her practice that may be either victims or perpetrators of domestic violence.
  • List four types of abuse.
  • Discuss assessment and screening procedures for determining whether a patient has any history of being either a victim, or a perpetrator, of domestic violence.
  • Explain the Florida state regulations in relation to reporting abuse for children, vulnerable adults, and adults in general.
  • Describe the steps for reporting abuse.
  • List at least 4 different intervention services in the state of Florida.
  • Describe how to provide vulnerable patients with information on, or how to refer such patients to, resources in the local community, such as: domestic violence centers and other advocacy groups, that
  

       Florida Nursing Laws and Rules (2 contact hours for $8 )
     
  • Identify the legal authority from which the individual states derive the power to regulate health care within their jurisdiction
  • Define police power.
  • Describe the purpose of the Nurse practice act.
  • Cite the chapter number of Florida law that contains the Florida Nurse Practice Act.
  • Contrast the powers and duties of the Board of Nursing with those of nursing organizations.
  • Describe the role of the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.
  • Define the term "Professional" as described in Florida statute Title XXXII, Chapter 456.001.
  • List 5 activities identified within the scope of "professional nursing".
  • List 2 activities identified within the scope of "practical nursing".
  • Differentiate the scope of practice of an "Advanced registered nurse practitioner" from that of "professional nursing".
  

       Hepatitis C: Prevention, Assessment & Treatment (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Describe hepatitis C (HCV) and the mode of transmission.
  • Discuss the history of HCV.
  • Discuss the infectious process and genotypes.
  • List and describe 6 to 9 risk factors for HCV.
  • List 4 different types of HCV assessment tests and applications.
  • List and describe 5 to 8 primary symptoms/complications of HCV.
  • List and describe 3 types of treatment for HCV.
  • List and describe 5 to 7 prevention methods.
  

       HIV/AIDS Update for Nurses (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • Describe various modes of transmission for HIV/AIDS.
  • Distinguish between different tests for HIV/AIDS.
  • Describe treatment and clinical management choices.
  • Recognize risk factors.
  • Describe prevention and infection control procedures.
  • Discuss Florida law on AIDS and the impact on testing, confidentiality, and treatment.
  • List Florida resources for persons/families with HIV/AIDS.
  

       HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders (HAND) (2 contact hours for $8 )
     
  • Compare the AIDS/HIV statistics between the United States and the World, men and women, different races and sexual preferences.
  • Review symptoms of HIV related cognitive impairment.
  • List five intervention strategies for managing motor and behavior changes.
  • Describe the origin of, and management of, challenging behaviors exhibited by persons with HIV.
  • Identify the three cognitive symptoms of AIDS Dementia Complex.
  

       Human Trafficking (4 contact hours for $0 )
     
  • Describe the types of human trafficking.
  • Describe the incidence of human trafficking and laws in your own state.
  • IIdentify individuals at greater risk of being a victim of human trafficking.
  • Identify valid assessment tools and indicators for identifying a human trafficking victim.
  • Describe signs and symptoms indicate a person may be a victim of human trafficking.
  • Use hotlines for reporting human trafficking at the National Human Trafficking Resource Center.
  • Use appropriate referral centers for legal and social services.
  

       Influenza: Not Just a Bad Cold (3 contact hours for $12 )
     
  • List high risk groups for flu and prevalence of the disease.
  • Define "pandemic" and state when they have occurred in the last century.
  • Describe the significance of a flu epidemic to the health care system in the U.S.
  • List the 3 types of flu.
  • Differentiate between antigenic drift and antigenic shift.
  • State the main method of flu transmission.
  • Differentiate between the signs and symptoms of a cold and the flu.
  • List diagnostic tests for influenza.
  • Identify some reliable strategies for influenza prevention in the health care setting.
  • Differentiate between different vaccine types and list indications and contraindications for each.
  • Describe respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette in healthcare settings.
  • List the basic drugs used for influenza antiviral treatment and the groups most likely to receive this treatment.
  • Describe basic uncomplicated flu treatment.
  

       Medical Error: What You Need to Know (2 contact hours for $8 )
     
  • Identify "culture of safety" principles that can reduce human error and improve patient safety.
  • Discuss the scope of adverse events associated with health care in the United States.
  • Identify institutional barriers and other factors that impact the occurrence of medical errors.
  • Differentiate between Root-Cause Analysis and Failure Mode and Effects Analysis.
  • Compare the factors of human error and systems failure as causes of adverse events.
  • Recognize error-prone practice settings and situations.
  • Identify three common medication errors.
  • Discuss at least three ways medication errors can be prevented.
  • Clarify current responsibilities for reporting errors and "near-misses."
  • Suggest processes to improve patient outcome.
  • Recognize and discuss safety needs of special and/or high risk populations.
  • Discuss needs and methods for public education.
  

       Nursing Ethics and Jurisprudence (3 contact hours for $12 )
      1. Examine the ethical principles inherent to the practice of nursing. 2. List the laws that regulate nursing practice in Texas. 3. Describe the purpose, functions, and structure of the Board of Nursing 4. Discuss licensure, certifications, and nursing scope of practice.
  

       Older Adult and Geriatric care (3 contact hours for $12 )
      This ""Geriatric care" course is designed to provide 3 contact hours of nursing continuing professional development in the patient care topics of:
  • Elder abuse
  • End-of-Life Issues
  • Physiology of aging
  • Neurologic, cognitive and psychological changes of aging
  • Cardiovascular changes in aging
  • Gastrointestinal and metabolic changes in aging
  • Musculoskeletal changes
  • Urogenital changes