CPD Online is an e-learning resource offered by the Royal College of Psychiatrists. The website contains a range of learning modules and podcasts that provide a flexible, interactive way of keeping up to date with progress in mental health. College members may use CPD Online for up to 25 CPD points in the UK. Access to the modules is through annual subscription, but we offer a series of free trial modules. For more information, visit the CPD Online website: www.psychiatrycpd.org.

Recent modules and podcasts

Managing the adverse effects of clozapine

NICE (2009) recommends clozapine for use in schizophrenia if two previous antipsychotics have been ineffective. Clozapine improves outcomes in around 50–60% of these cases, but concerns over adverse effects can cause a premature withdrawal of this highly effective treatment. This module aims to improve understanding of the adverse effects that may arise with clozapine use, increase confidence in alleviating them and suggest management strategies. CPD Credits: 1

Transferring care between age-specific services: young people’s transitions

The healthcare transitions faced by young people with mental health problems and disorders can be extremely challenging, and the importance of managing these transitions well has been acknowledged nationally and internationally. This module describes different types of transition and models of transitional care, summarises principles of good practice and uses case studies to facilitate reflection on how personal clinical practice and service development might be improved. CPD Credits: 1

Podcast Medically unexplained symptoms

Medically unexplained symptoms can be extremely distressing and debilitating for patients, but they are often difficult to treat. Dr Raj Persaud talks to Dr Richard Brown about his ‘integrative cognitive model’ of medically unexplained symptoms, and discusses the practical implications regarding treatment. CPD Credits: 0.5

Podcast Psychology of optimism

Dr Raj Persaud discusses the meaning and underlying psychological constructs of optimism with Dr Rebecca McGuire-Snieckus, author of the paper ‘Hope, optimism and delusion’ published in the Psychiatric Bulletin. CPD Credits: 0.5