2021 Pharmacology Sessions

Pharmacology course covering the cardiovascular disease intersections between cannabinoids, depression, chronic kidney disease, thyroid disorders, and PCSK-9 inhibitors.

Member Cost: $45 | Non-member Cost: $85
Credits: 5.0 CE contact hours, 4.75 CE pharmacology hours

Course Overview

Clinical management of chronic cardiovascular disease is a key component of the work of advanced practice nurses and RNs in the cardiology and primary care settings. This annual pharmacology CE program was designed to meet the clinical practice and recertification needs of these clinicians.

This 2021 curriculum includes a comprehensive approach to pharmacology in:

  • The Science and Clinical Application of Cannabinoids
  • Pharmacologic Management of Depression in Adults with CVD
  • Pharmacologic Management of Patients with Complex Co-Morbidities: Preventing the Progression of CKD
  • Thyroid Disorders and their Relationship to Cardiovascular Disease
  • Reducing LDL-C and Cardiovascular Risk with PCSK9 Inhibitors

Member Cost: $45 | Non-member Cost: $85
Credits: 5.0 CE contact hours, 4.75 CE pharmacology hours

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Learning Objectives

The Science and Clinical Application of Cannabinoids 
  1. Define the endocannabinoid system.
  2. Discuss the evidence and clinical uses for cannabinoids. 
  3. Review practical clinical basics and safety considerations for cannabinoids. 
Pharmacologic Management of Depression in Adults with CVD 
  1. Review the common classes of antidepressant medications and their effectiveness in treating depression. 
  2. Discuss the dosing, titration, contraindications, and adverse effects of common antidepressant therapies in combination with common CVD therapies. 
  3. Explain the application of antidepressant therapies in special populations including older adults, pregnant women, and patients with cardiovascular diseases including arrhythmia and heart failure.  
Pharmacologic Management of Patients with Complex Co-Morbidities: Preventing the Progression of CKD 
  1. Review the interaction between the cardiovascular and renal systems and the implications this has on the selection of pharmacotherapeutic treatments.
  2. Discuss the evidence for specific medications that slow progression and reduce cardiovascular risk in patients with CKD.
  3. Discuss medical management of blood pressure, blood glucose, and heart failure in patients with CKD.  
Thyroid Disorders and their Relationship to Cardiovascular Disease 
  1. Define hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism and list common causes.
  2. Discuss oral thyroid replacement products available for the treatment of hypothyroidism and the appropriate use of these products.
  3. Compare the available treatment modalities for patients with hyperthyroidism and their appropriate use.
  4. Describe appropriate management strategies for special populations with thyroid disorders including older patients, pregnant women, and those with cardiovascular diseases.
Reducing LDL-C and Cardiovascular Risk with PCSK9 Inhibitors 
  1. Identify patients for consideration of PCSK9 inhibition. 
  2. Describe the importance of reducing LDL-C with PCSK9 inhibitors in patients with recent MI. 
  3. Explain cardiovascular risk reduction and safety when reducing LDL-C to very low levels. 
  4. Indicate key messages to disseminate to patients with elevated LDL-C.  

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Faculty

  • Theresa Mallick-Searle, MS, RN-BC, ANP-BC
  • Michelle Heyland, DNP, APN, PMHNP-BC
  • Carol Headley, DNS, ACNP
  • Michele Merten, APRN, CNP, DNP
  • James A. Underberg, MD, MS, FACPM, FACP, FNYAM, FASPC, FNLA
  • Margo B. Minissian, PhD, ACNP, NEA-BC, FNLA, FAHA
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This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the Accreditation Standards of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners® (AANP) through the joint providership of PCNA. PCNA is accredited by AANP as an approved provider of nurse practitioner continuing education. Provider number: 030602.