Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency and Augmentation Therapy (Prolastin)

3 Free Contact Hours in Nursing

This continuing education activity was approved by CNE-Net, the education division of the North Dakota Nurses Association, an accredited approver by the American Nurse Credentialing Center's Commission on Accreditation.

Course Description

This activity consists of a 55 minute instructional video, an accompanying library of associated reference material, a registration form, a post-test, and an evaluation form. Upon successful completion the participant will be awarded 3 contact hours in continuing nursing education and issued a certificate.

Course Content

The content is presented in two parts. First is an Introduction to Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency. Content includes the discovery, pathophysiology, genetics, risk factors, psychosocial implications, and diagnosis and treatment of this genetic disorder. In the second part of the program, the nurse is provided with drug specific step-by-step instructions for preparing and infusing Prolastin. Additionally, the nurse is provided with patient assessment and documentation information as well as available community resources.

Course Objectives

The Nurse will:
  1. Discover that Alpha-1 is genetically transmitted, can lead to liver disease, early onset emphysema and other conditions.
  2. Recognize the disorder has been under diagnosed and/or misdiagnosed.
  3. List three key elements in the treatment plan for individuals with Alpha-1 including augmentation therapy.
  4. Indicate specific knowledge of the criteria for initiating, dosing, and administering augmentation therapy with Prolastin.
  5. List at least 4 potential side effects associated with Prolastin therapy.
  6. Identify procedures for appropriate handling of Prolastin.
  7. Name resources available in the community for those affected by Alpha-1.

The educational video program is available for viewing at any time. You may view the video whether or not you choose to complete the course to obtain the 3 Contact Hours in Continuing Nursing Education.