Pre-Conference Workshops
31 May 2024 - 8:30 am - 5:45 pm
Begin your conference experience with our pre-conference workshops on May 31st for just $99 (available for both PSA members and non-members).
Workshop 1: Sleep Health
Are we too dependent on medicines for sleep health? Why are 90% of people with insomnia being managed in primary care with potentially harmful and addictive sedative-hypnotic medicines (e.g. benzodiazepines, ‘z-drugs’, antidepressants, antipsychotics) when Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is 'first-line' management. High quality evidence supports the use of CBT-I to improve insomnia, mental health and quality of life. This workshop will delve into the management of insomnia using a holisitic approach and support patients with insomnia, we will discuss the evidence for CBT-I and other sleep hygiene measures that can be used for people with insomnia.
Workshop 2: Administration of LAIB
Long-acting injectable buprenorphine (LAIB) is recommended for opioid dependence, due to an improved safety profile, simpler regimen and greater convenience and accessibility for patients with pharmacist administration of LAIB. This session will explore how to operate and set up this service, ensuring appropriate links are built with relevant prescribers of opioid treatment. We will also discuss appropriate communication methods with patients who are opioid dependant as well as providing a hands on practical administration workshop, stepping through any differences between the available products.
Workshops 3 & 4: Suicide Prevention
Suicide has a devastating impact on families, friends and whole communities. Pharmacists, due to their role and their accessibility in the community, have the potential to play a key role in recognising the signs and symptoms of suicide, restricting means and keeping the person safe until support is available. This Suicide Prevention Training for Pharmacists is an interactive, cased based workshop enabling peer discussion alongside the development of practical skills to implement.