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 and revised modules

Psychiatric intensive care

Psychiatric intensive care units (PICUs) are hospital wards for the short-term management of people in an acutely disturbed (often aggressive) phase of a serious mental disorder who cannot be safely managed in a general ward. Patients are usually detained under the Mental Health Act 1983. This module describes what a PICU is and how it differs from other wards, and considers the common clinical and demographic features of PICU patients and best clinical practice in the PICU. CPD Credits: 1

Podcast Prisonomics

In this podcast, Raj Persaud is in conversation with Vicky Pryce, author of Prisonomics. They discuss the psychological impact of prison on people, whether prison is an effective deterrent, what the alternatives to prison might be and the particular effects and implications of prison for women. CPD Credits: 0.5

Podcast Post-traumatic stress disorder: an evolutionary perspective

In conversation with Raj Persaud, Dr Chris Cantor, author of Evolution and Posttraumatic Stress: Disorders of Vigilance and Defence, describes how post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) responses are representative of evolutionary survival mechanisms and discusses the psychological impact of PTSD on people in terms of evolutionary theory. CPD Credits: 0.5

Hepatitis C and mental illness [Revised & updated]

Psychiatrists, particularly in substance misuse and liaison psychiatry, need to be aware of the complex issues involved in the treatment of substance use disorders presenting with severe mental illness and hepatitis C infection. This module explores the relationship between hepatitis C and mental health and offers guidance on management. CPD Credits: 1.5