This course is designed for any staff members who will be working in the health sector in a clinical role. The aim of this training is for the learner to be able to understand Dementia from diagnosis to medication as required by your workplace.
Dementia in Primary Care
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Welcome to the GP Healthcare Alliance’s Dementia in Primary Care course.
Estimated Completion Time: 4 Hours
This course is designed for any staff members who will be working in the health sector in a clinical role. The aim of this training is for the learner to be able to understand Dementia from diagnosis to medication as required by your workplace. You will always adhere to your workplace protocols; gain an understanding of what you will need to do and why, maintaining professional practices throughout.
It would be beneficial to have a note pad at the ready, but please do not worry if you have not, there are downloadable files for your reference!
Course overview:
- What is Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease?
We will explore what Dementia is in the early onset stage and learn about Alzheimer’s disease progression.
- Vascular Dementia.
We will consider what vascular dementia is, considering the risk factors, symptoms and disease progression.
- Lewy-Body Dementia.
We will consider how Lewy-Body Dementia is caused, along with the risk factors and how it is similar to Parkinson’s disease.
- Frontotemporal Dementia.
We will learn about Frontotemporal Dementia and the cause, as well as the varying types along with the symptoms.
- Dementia diagnosis.
We will consider how dementia can be diagnosed. What could be symptomatic of other illnesses. What testing we can perform in primary care and who to refer too.
- Medications.
We will learn about potential medications for patient’s with Dementia.
- Progression of symptoms and medications that can help relieve these.
We will consider what medications might help patient’s whose symptoms have progressed.
- Case study.
We will look at a case study for exploration.
- Additional information.
We have provided additional information that you may wish to explore and/or provide to your patients.
- End of course assessment.
This is where you will be able to show off all the information that you have learnt, there is quite a lot, so making notes would benefit you for a quick recap! You will need a pass rate of 80% or more to pass and be able to obtain your certificate, which can be downloaded and printed.
Please be aware that all content within this course is copyright protected
©2022 GP Healthcare Alliance.
Please scroll down each screen and click ‘continue’ where indicated, also be aware of the arrows or the relevant numbers on the bottom of the screen to ‘click on’ as needed.
Where possible we have provided audio support to utilise if preferred/required but please be aware that there are examples for you to peruse also.
When you are ready to begin, click the “Start Course” button and then click the Lesson name and then Launch Lesson.
Dementia in Primary Care: Why This Course is Essential for Healthcare Professionals
Do you want to deliver better care and outcomes for patients with Dementia? As healthcare professionals, we encounter patients suffering from Dementia and related illnesses far too often. Comprehensive knowledge and nuanced skills are essential to provide quality care that improves outcomes for these patients.
This is precisely why upskilling yourself on the latest evidence-based practices in Dementia assessment, diagnosis and management is absolutely vital. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive course tailored for clinical staff like you.
By the end, you will have in-depth knowledge of Dementia from causes and risk factors to progression of symptoms and medications. Most importantly, you can immediately apply this learning in alignment with protocols at your workplace to demonstrate professional competence.
Join us in this informative and important journey to becoming a specialist in supporting Dementia patients. Take the first step by understanding what’s covered in this skills-building course.
What You Will Learn in Dementia in Primary Care Course?
Starting with the basics, we’ll explore dementia and Alzheimer’s, uncovering how they affect the brain and progress over time. This course is your path to understanding and supporting those with dementia, from early signs to advanced care.
Here’s a peek at what you’ll learn in our detailed course on dementia care essentials:
Module 1: Understanding Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease
In the early stages of this course, you’ll develop a strong understanding of what exactly Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are. We’ll explore how Alzheimer’s impacts the brain long before visible symptoms arise.
You’ll learn about the different stages of progression so you can recognise the signs as the disease advances. This knowledge will help you provide targeted care based on how far the disease has developed.
Module 2: Vascular Dementia: Risk factors, Symptoms, and how it progresses
We’ll also unravel vascular dementia, which is caused by impaired blood flow to the brain. You’ll discover the risk factors to watch for, like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.
We’ll outline the typical symptoms so you can distinguish vascular dementia from other types. Additionally, you’ll gain clarity on how vascular dementia tends to progress over time.
Module 3: Lewy-Body Dementia: Causes, Parkinson's Links, and Risk
In this module, you’ll learn what sets it apart from other Dementia types. We’ll discuss the abnormal protein deposits known as Lewy-bodies that cause this irreversible condition.
You’ll also find out why Lewy-body dementia involves similarities to Parkinson’s disease. Plus, we’ll outline risk factors related to age, genetics, and gender.
Module 4: Frontotemporal Dementia: Causes, Types, and Symptoms
Frontotemporal dementia warrants its own focused module. You’ll uncover how certain brain region damage leads to behavioural, emotional and speech issues in Frontotemporal dementia patients.
We’ll clarify the differences between major Frontotemporal dementia subtypes. You’ll learn how genetics and family history can increase susceptibility. By recognising early symptoms, you’ll be equipped to support accurate diagnosis.
Module 5: Dementia Diagnosis: Strategies, Differentiation, and Referral
Pinpointing a Dementia diagnosis can be complex, but this module will demystify the process for you. You’ll explore the medical history analysis, physical exams, cognitive tests and other diagnostics that doctors utilise.
We’ll differentiate Dementia from other potential causes of memory problems like depression or vitamin deficiencies. You’ll understand exactly what primary care testing can uncover, as well as when specialist referral is recommended for confirmation.
Module 6: Overview of Dementia Medications and Their Benefits
Medications can provide meaningful improvements in Dementia patients’ cognition, behaviour and functionality. In this module, you’ll learn about the drug classes used to treat different Dementia types and symptoms.
We’ll clarify how medications can manage progression related to cognition, agitation, insomnia and more based on the individual patient’s needs. You’ll feel equipped to have informed conversations about medication options and realistic outcomes.
Module 7: Managing Advanced Symptoms: Medication Options
As Dementia progresses to more severe stages, additional medication interventions may become necessary for keeping patients comfortable. Here we’ll outline treatment considerations and drug options as cognition and abilities decline.
You’ll understand key goals like minimising distress over lost capabilities and maintaining dignity even during advanced disease stages.
Module 8: Applying Your Knowledge: Case Studies
Reinforce your learning through in-depth case study analyses. We’ll examine complex patient scenarios and have you leverage your new knowledge to determine optimal diagnostic, treatment and care approaches.
You’ll develop more nuanced clinical judgement while practicing risk/benefit evaluation and decision-making.
We’ll ensure you finish the course feeling fully equipped and empowered to provide exceptional, holistic Dementia support in your healthcare role.
Module 9: Additional Resources
Beyond the core modules, the course offers a wealth of additional resources for those eager to delve deeper into specific areas or to access tools and information beneficial for patient care.
These resources serve as a bridge between theoretical knowledge and practical application, enriching the learning experience.
Why Should You Take This Dementia Care Course?
Advancing your expertise in Dementia care through this certification course offers immense professional and personal rewards, including:
- Comprehensive Knowledge: You’ll gain an in-depth understanding of Dementia from pre-diagnosis through late-stage progression support. The structured curriculum equips you with a strong foundation.
- Real-World Applications: Through case studies and downloadable care resources, you’ll know how to apply the strategies from this course to real patient situations. Skills development promotes confident, effective practice.
- Career Advancement: Up-to-date certifications can open doors to specialised Dementia care roles, increased responsibilities and leadership opportunities – excellent for CV-building and skill demonstration during job searches.
- Workplace Contributions: As more patients present with Dementia, healthcare settings need staff with specific training. You’ll be an invaluable team resource and elevate care standards organisation-wide.
- Patient Relationships: Enhanced understanding leads to more compassionate, dignified care. Patients and families will recognise and appreciate your expertise during difficult diagnoses and disease progression.
- Professional Connections: Connecting with peers who share your passion for Dementia care creates a strong support network for collaborating, sharing ideas and accessing guidance.
- Personal Fulfilment: Improving lives through nurturing care provides immense intrinsic rewards. Specialised knowledge empowers you to become patients’ strongest advocate during challenging transitions.
Make this certification course the next powerful step forward in your purpose-driven healthcare career. Let the rewards begin here!
Certify Your Mastery: Take the Dementia Care Assessment
This comprehensive course equips you with immense knowledge – now it’s time to validate your new expertise! Successfully completing the end-of-course assessment is required for you to receive your official Dementia Care certification.
The assessment covers all topics presented within the course curriculum. It allows you to demonstrate retention of key learnings around diagnosis protocols, treatment options, sensitive care delivery and more.
Questions are thoughtfully designed to evaluate your depth of knowledge without being unnecessarily complex. We provide study resources to help you prepare.
To pass and gain certification that elevates your qualifications, you must achieve an 80% score or higher on the assessment. Passing demonstrates career readiness to provide safe, dignified Dementia care and shows dedication to continuous skills advancement.
With this prestigious certification added to your professional credentials, you’ll become an invaluable asset to your healthcare workplace.
Step Up in Healthcare: Enrol in Dementia Expertise Today
Are you feeling motivated to bring your Dementia health services to the next level through specialised certification? We encourage you to take that purposeful step forward right now by enrolling in this immersive, self-paced online course.
You’ll gain career-accelerating knowledge and practical guidance to apply in your patient care routine from day one. Imagine the rewards of providing more compassionate support, better understanding patient needs, and unlocking advancement opportunities.
Join hundreds of your driven healthcare peers who have upgraded their expertise through certification. Become the caring, empathetic and knowledgeable practitioner that complex Dementia patients and overwhelmed families deserve to have on their side during challenging times.
Commit to professional growth today by enrolling in this high-impact Dementia care course – let’s elevate best practices together!
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