Certificate in Ocular Therapeutics 2024 (ACO-COT)

Certificate in Ocular Therapeutics 2024 (ACO-COT)

Available from: 8/04/2024 (AEST)

More Information: https://www.aco.org.au/certificate-in-ocular-therapeutics/

Provider: Australian College of Optometry

Contact: Shazia Tahseen, [E] cpd@aco.org.au, [P] 03 9349 7546

Activity Outline

The didactic portion (lecture component) of the course is pre-recorded and delivered virtually, with a face-to-face clinical placement component and face-to-face webinars (held over Zoom), with the opportunity for candidates to interact with the presenter.

The online component will involve approximately 45 hours of online lectures and 8 hours of "Live" webinars plus recommended reading.

The practical component of the course involves 50 hours of clinical placement experience under the guidance of an experienced mentor.

Additional hours undertaken during forum discussion participation and recommended reading can be "self-recorded" via the "My Own Activities" section of your CPD Portfolio.

Learning Objectives

• A1.1 Understand the impact of vision loss in Australia
• A1.2 Recognise the distribution and causes of vision loss for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
• A1.3 Understand the recommendations for the long-term and sustainable provision of equity in eye health
• A1.4 Learn the progress made to Close the Gap for Vision to produce more equitable health status for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
• A2.1.1 To understand the agents and mechanisms that cause cell injury
• A2.1.2 To understand these mechanisms in relation to clinical signs in eye disease
• A2.1.3 To understand the adaptive changes that occur in cells following injury and how this relates to eye disease
• A2.2.1 To understand the signs and function of acute inflammation and how it manifests in the eye
• A2.2.2 To understand the mechanisms of acute inflammation and how they lead to the signs of inflammation
• A2.2.3 To understand the process of chronic inflammation and how it affects the eye
• A2.3.1 To revise the basic structure of blood vessel types found in the eye
• A2.3.2 To identify the sites of the blood ocular barrier and the structures responsible for maintaining the barriers
• A2.3.3 To consider the mechanisms and consequences of breakdown of the blood ocular barriers
• A2.4.1 To revise the types and cellular effects of injury
• A2.4.2 To revise the signs of inflammation and how it applies to the eye (acute Vs chronic inflammation), using trachoma as an example of co-existing acute and chronic disease affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
• A2.4.3 To review the concepts of natural and specific immunity in the eye, and humoral and cellular immunity in the eye
• A3.1.1 Describe the key functions of the immune system and the multilayered mechanisms used to achieve these outcomes
• A3.1.2 Discuss the major components involved in an effective immune response, identifying the innate and adaptive mechanisms and rationalise how these are inextricably linked
• A3.1.3 Discuss the cellular and humoral components of immune responses
• A3.1.4 Describe how immune responses are calibrated, depending on the extent of the threat
• A3.1.5 Discuss how failings in the immune system can lead to disease
• A3.2.1 To understand the mechanisms of hypersensitivity
• A3.2.2 To understand the mechanisms of autoimmunity as related to the eye
• A3.2.3 To understand what is meant by immune privilege in the eye
• A3.3.1 Provide a forum for candidates to ask specific questions regarding concepts in immunology and pathology
• A3.3.2 To discuss innate and adaptive immune system in the body generally and how it relates to normal eye function and eye disease
• A4.1.1 An understanding of basic microbiology
• A4.1.2 Differences between eukaryotes and prokaryotes
• A4.1.3 Bacterial identification including Gram stain
• A4.2.1 An understanding of general mechanisms of microbial pathogenesis
• A4.2.2 Understanding of the virulence mechanisms of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus
• A4.2.3 Knowledge of how microbes can evade host defence systems
• A4.3.1 An understanding of best practice for hygiene
• A4.3.2 Understanding of mechanisms of action of disinfecting agents
• A4.3.3 Knowledge of how microbes gain resistance to antimicrobials
• A4.4.1 To provide a forum for students to ask questions on key concepts in microbiology
• A4.4.2 To provide further explanations and revision of key concepts in microbiology
• A5.1.1 Historical Insights into safe drug use
• A5.1.2 Molecular Targets
• A5.1.3 Principles of Pharmacology
• A5.2.1 Discuss the concepts of affinity, potency and efficacy
• A5.2.2 Quantitation of drug action
• A5.2.3 Understand the nature of agonists and antagonists
• A5.3.1 Understanding of requirements for getting drugs to and from their sites of action
• A5.3.2 Determining how much drug to give (dosage)
• A5.3.3 Ocular considerations on how to give a drug
• A5.3.4 Determining how often you give a drug (frequency)
• A5.4.1 Understand the process of chemical transmission in the nervous system and from this identify possible targets for drug modulation of this process
• A5.4.2 Describe the basic anatomy of 1) the autonomic nervous system (ANS), it’s parasympathetic and sympathetic divisions and 2) the somatic nervous system
• A5.4.3 Describe the major neurotransmitters and receptors involved in chemical transmission within the ANS and somatic nervous system
• A5.4.4 Discuss agonists and antagonists that have selective activity at cholinoceptors and adrenoceptors and give examples of any therapeutic uses that they might have (with focus on ocular therapy)
• A5.5.1 Discuss drugs that alter cholinergic and adrenergic nervous system activity through modulation of the synthesis, release and inactivation of these transmitters
• A5.5.2 Give examples of the therapeutic uses of drugs that act in the above manner
• A5.5.3 Discuss agonists and antagonists that have selective activity at cholinoceptors and adrenoceptors, and gives examples of any therapeutic uses for these drugs
• A5.6.1 Describe the endogenous synthesis of the eicosonaoids with particular emphasis upon the key roles played by the enzymes phospholipaseA2, cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase
• A5.6.2 Discuss the major actions of prostaglandins and leukotrienes in the body and their therapeutic uses, and describe how non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) produce their anti-inflammatory effect
• A5.6.3 Describe the major unwanted effects common to most NSAIDs and the mechanisms underlying these effects
• A5.6.4 Apply this knowledge to understand the rationale behind the development and uses of COS-2 selective drugs (-coxibs) , and be aware of some of the problems with drugs in this class
• A5.6.5 Discuss the mechanisms of action, unwanted effects and therapeutic uses of glucocorticoids and compare and contrast these features with the NSAIDs
• A5.6.6 Be familiar with the mechanism of action of cyclopsorin and relate this to its use in the treatment of dry eye syndrome
• A5.7.1 To provide a forum for students to ask questions on key concepts in ocular pharmacology
• A5.7.2 To provide further explanations and revision of key concepts in ocular pharmacology
• A5.8.1 Recognise pathophysiological processes
• A5.8.2 Consider quality use of medicines
• A5.8.3 Understand the concepts of patient-centred care and informed consent
• A 5.8.4 Understand the difference between knowing what is on the OBA list of medicines and the availability of medications on PBS-subsidised vs. private scripts
• A5.8.5 Recognise the other health professionals who are part of the patient’s regular care team and communicate with them
• B1.1.1.1 Understand the key points in establishing the diagnosis of microbial keratitis
• B1.1.1.2 Understand microbiological profile and treatment of microbial keratitis
• B1.1.1.3 Identify risk factors for microbial keratitis and how addressing these reduces the recurrence of infection
• B1.1.2.1 Understand the clinical presentations of HSV and HZO
• B1.1.2.2 Understand the treatment options for these different clinical scenarios
• B1.1.2.3 Understand the management of corneal neovascularization
• B1.1.3.1 To understand the symptoms and signs of contact lens related complications
• B1.1.3.2 To understand the therapeutic benefits of contact lenses
• B1.1.3.3 Expectations for management and awareness of the therapeutic dilemma; To treat versus early referral onwards
• B1.1.4.1 Understand the definition and epidemiology of dry eye
• B1.1.4.2 Understand how to clinically assess and grade dry eye
• B1.1.4.3 Understand the treatment options for the different levels of dry eye
• B1.1.5.1 Diagnose or list the differential diagnoses for patients presenting with corneal degenerations or dystrophies through a basic understanding of these conditions
• B1.1.5.2 Form a knowledge foundation prior to counselling patients with these conditions
• B1.1.5.3 Triage the referral needs regarding need for and urgency of referral to an ophthalmologist
• B1.1.5.4 Develop an understanding of the appropriate management options for patients with corneal dystrophies and degenerations
• B1.1.6.1 Discuss the diagnosis of microbial keratitis in more detail in different populations
• B1.1.6.2 Discuss the appropriate choice of treatment agent in different populations, dosage, and overall treatment plan
• B1.1.7.1 Discuss the challenges of managing all forms of herpes simplex and zoster keratitis
• B1.1.7.2 Judiciously use topical corticosteroids and oral antiviral medicines to treat herpetic keratitis
• B1.2.1.1 Understand the different types of conjunctival lesions
• B1.2.1.2 Recognise distinguishing clinical features of different types of conjunctival lesions
• B1.2.1.3 Develop background knowledge of treatments for conjunctival lesions
• B1.2.2.1 Discuss the mechanisms and epidemiology; signs, symptoms and distinguishing features; and therapeutic and non-therapeutic management of conditions that lead to conjunctival inflammation
• B1.2.2.2 Develop a better understanding of cicatricial disease, degenerations, cysts, and deposits
• B1.2.3.1 Establish the diagnosis of conjunctivitis (differentiating it from other causes of red eye)
• B1.2.3.2 Establish appropriate therapy according to cause of conjunctivitis
• B1.2.3.3 Prevent complications of conjunctivitis
• B1.2.3.4 Prevent spread of communicable diseases
• B1.2.3.5 Educate and engage the patient and healthcare colleagues in management of conjunctivitis
• B1.2.4.1 Develop knowledge of diagnosis, treatment and management of conjunctival disease
• B1.3.1.1 Develop a better understanding of eyelid/lacrimal anatomy
• B1.3.1.2 Develop a better understanding of the clinical presentation of common eyelid/adnexal conditions
• B1.3.1.3 Develop a better understanding of the clinical evaluation with emphasis on any urgency of referral
• B1.3.2.1 To outline the adnexal conditions of pre-septal cellulitis and orbital Cellulitis
• B1.3.2.2 To stress the critical importance of recognising Orbital Cellulitis at the earliest possible time and ensuring urgent systemic/intravenous anti-biotic treatment
• B1.3.3.1 Implement first aid for trauma and chemical injuries (excluding globe perforation for any traumatic injury)
• B1.3.3.2 Understand the importance of excluding globe penetration for any eye trauma, exclude intraocular foreign body for corneal laceration with high velocity metal-on-metal injuries
• B1.3.3.3 Implement first aid for globe rupture: avoid pressure on the eye and avoid seidel test with pressure
• B1.3.3.4 Understand the risks of infection with all eye trauma
• B1.3.3.5 Understand the management of corneal abrasion including prevention of recurrent corneal erosion syndrome
• B1.3.3.6 Understand the importance of prevention in eye injury and protecting injury to non-injured eye in future
• B1.3.4.1 Understand the importance of history taking and examination of the acute red eye
• B1.3.4.2 Understand the differential diagnoses of the red eye by location and signs/symptoms
• B1.3.4.3 Implement management of common causes of red eye
• B1.3.5.1 Understand the importance of history and detailed examination of the acute red eye by anatomy
• B1.3.5.2 Understand the differential diagnosis of the chronic red eye to exclude ophthalmic surface squamous metaplasia involving conjunctiva but less often cornea
• B2.1.1 To appreciate the pathological processes of uveal inflammation, especially the crucial aspects of the blood-aqueous barrier
• B2.1.2 To appreciate key signs and symptoms of anterior uveitis, especially the differences between acute and chronic presentations
• B2.1.3 To appreciate the association between uveitis and systemic diseases especially the search for associated diseases
• B2.2.1 Understand the differential diagnosis of anterior uveitis
• B2.2.2 Understand the systemic diseases associated with uveitis
• B2.3.1 To be able to recognise the signs and symptoms of Posterior Uveitis
• B2.3.2 To appreciate the referral, underlying systemic conditions and management of Posterior Uveitis
• B2.3.3 To appreciate any overlap between Anterior and Posterior Uveitis
• B2.4.1 To understand the similarities and differences in presentation, appearance and management of episcleritis and scleritis
• B2.4.2 To understand the importance of prompt diagnosis of scleritis
• B2.4.3 To understand the possible differential diagnoses of episcleritis and scleritis in anterior segment inflammation
• B2.5.1 To understand the principles of ocular management of acute anterior uveitis, including referral criteria for ophthalmological management
• B2.5.2 To understand the reasons and requirements for systemic evaluation of patients with uveitis
• B2.5.3 To understand the therapeutic alternatives /options in acute anterior uveitis
• B2.6.1 Be aware of the differential diagnosis of anterior chamber cells
• B2.6.2 Understand the treatment of acute anterior uveitis
• B2.6.3 Understand complications associated with anterior uveitis
• B2.7.1 Understand the management of acute, low grade inflammation, including identification of the primary cause for the inflammation
• B2.7.2 Consider the decision making processes that inform the best option(s) for management of the inflammation in a patient-centred manner
• B2.7.3 Consider potential off target and side effects of any treatment
• B2.7.4 Consider the review schedule and referral triggers
• B3.1.1 Understand the elements of the diagnosis of glaucomatous optic neuropathy
• B3.1.2 Classify the type of Glaucoma
• B3.1.3 Assess the risk of vision loss in glaucoma
• B3.2.1 Understand the principles of medical management of glaucoma
• B3.2.2 Be aware of medication options for the treatment of glaucoma
• B3.2.3 Appreciate the complexity of medical glaucoma management
• B3.3.1 Understand the pathophysiology of angle closure
• B3.3.2 Recognize the importance of performing gonioscopy routinely to exclude angle closure instead of relying on screening tests
• B3.3.3 Identify the various stages of angle closure according to the International Society of Geographical and Epidemiological Ophthalmology (ISGEO) classification of angle closure glaucoma
• B3.4.1 Understand the overview of surgical management in glaucoma
• B3.4.2 Understand the various laser and surgical options in glaucoma management
• B3.4.3 Be aware of potential glaucoma surgery complications
• B3.5.1 Diagnose common secondary glaucomas
• B3.5.2 Manage common secondary glaucomas
• B3.6.1 Recognise the clinical signs which should raise doubt regarding the diagnosis of glaucoma
• B3.6.2 Recognise the features on clinical examination which are not typical for glaucoma
• B3.6.3 Better understand how to investigate and manage atypical presentations that are suggestive of glaucoma
• B3.7.1 Discuss the issues related to making a diagnosis of glaucoma
• B3.7.2 Discuss factors which influence the treatment options in glaucoma
• B3.8.1 TBA
• B3.9.1 TBA
• B4.1.1 Appreciate the relevant factors in the assessment for cataract surgery
• B4.1.2 Manage standard postoperative care for cataract surgery
• B4.1.3 Appreciate when the case is not progressing as standard
• B4.2.1 Apply knowledge of therapeutic medicines relevant to post-operative cataract care
• B4.2.2 Understand how to manage raised post-operative IOP
• B5.1 Review refractive surgery techniques
• B5.2 Implement postoperative care and co-management of refractive surgery patients
• B6.1 Review concepts of shared care and examples of this
• B6.2 Understand professional, ethical and legal obligations and issues in relation to shared care
• B7.1 Better understand the legal issues in ocular therapeutic practice and prescribing
• B7.2 Better understand the indemnity-related issues in ocular therapeutic practice and prescribing
• B8.1 Understand the importance of a careful appraisal of the patient’s circumstances and presentation and initial decision as to whether the management of their condition is best conducted by or in collaboration with another health professional
• B8.2 Understand the importance of a comprehensive assessment of the pathophysiological processed underlying the ocular (and perhaps systemic) disease, formulating a number of potential management strategies, considering the pros and cons of each
• B8.3 Understand the importance of discussing side effects, off target effects and expected outcomes with the patient and gaining informed consent
• B8.4 Understand the importance of discussing the expectations around medication choice, review periods, triggers for referral or urgent review, prognosis and any long-term outcomes that the patient needs to be aware of

Max CPD hours awarded: 103

Session Information