Autonomic Dysreflexia Training

Autonomic Dysreflexia Training Course

Autonomic dysreflexia training equips healthcare professionals with the essential knowledge and skills to confidently manage AD in individuals with spinal cord injuries.

Our course aims to help participants develop a deep understanding of AD, including its definition, physiology, signs and symptoms, potential consequences, causes and triggers, treatment options, documentation strategies, person-centered care approaches, and the key components of an effective AD care plan.

• Course Duration: 2- 3 hours
• Course Level: Level 2
• Certificate: 1-year certificate
• Max Delegates: 12
• Practical: No

What is Autonomic dysreflexia?

Autonomic dysreflexia, or autonomic hyperreflexia, is a condition that can be really dangerous for people with spinal cord injuries, especially if the injury is near or above the T6 level. It occurs when the body’s autonomic nervous system, which is responsible for regulating automatic functions like blood pressure and heart rate, doesn’t work as it should.

Autonomic Dysreflexia Training Course Summary

We highly recommend staff undertake the following courses alongside this Autonomic Dysreflexia course to give them a full understanding of how to properly assist and support service users at risk for AD.

• Catheter Care
• Bowel Management
• Basic Observation Training

We offer a full spinal injury training package course for this purpose.

Automatic Dysreflexia Course Content

Module 1: Understanding Autonomic Dysreflexia

In this module, we’ll start by getting to know Autonomic Dysreflexia (AD). We’ll learn what AD is all about, its definition, and what it looks like. We’ll also discover how often it happens and what makes some people more at risk. Plus, we’ll dig into the science of AD and understand how it affects the body.

• Definition and description of autonomic dysreflexia (AD).
• Prevalence and risk factors for Autonomic Dysreflexia.
• Physiology of Autonomic Dysreflexia.

Module 2: Signs and Symptoms of Autonomic Dysreflexia

In this part, we’ll uncover the early signs that can give us a heads-up about Autonomic Dysreflexia (AD). We’ll also get to know the usual symptoms of AD and understand why they might show up differently in different people.

• Early warning signs of Autonomic Dysreflexia (AD).
• Typical symptoms of Autonomic Dysreflexia (AD).
• Variations in symptoms presentation.

Module 3: Potential Consequences of Autonomic Dysreflexia

Here, we’ll look into what might happen if Autonomic Dysreflexia (AD) isn’t managed well. We’ll find out about the problems it can cause in the short term and the long term. Plus, we’ll see how it can affect someone’s everyday life and why spotting it early is super important.

• Short-term and long-term complications of AD.
• Impact on quality of life.
• Importance of prompt recognition and management.

Module 4: Causes and Triggers of Autonomic Dysreflexia

In this module, we’ll explore what can set off Autonomic Dysreflexia. We’ll learn about the things that commonly trigger it and how to figure out what might make one person more likely to have it than another. We’ll also discover ways to avoid these triggers and prevent Autonomic Dysreflexia (AD) episodes.

• Common triggers of Autonomic Dysreflexia (AD).
• Identifying individual risk factors.
• Strategies for avoiding triggers.

Module 5: Treatment and Management of Autonomic Dysreflexia

Here, we’ll check out how to deal with AD. We’ll learn about things we can do without using medicine to manage it. Plus, we’ll find out about the medicines that can help. And we’ll also get to know what to do in case of a really serious AD episode.

• Non-pharmacological interventions for AD management.
• Pharmacological treatment options.
• Emergency management of severe Autonomic Dysreflexia (AD) episodes.

Module 6: Documentation and Communication

This part is all about keeping records and talking to others. We’ll see why it’s important to write down what happens with Autonomic Dysreflexia (AD) and how to share it with other people involved in care.

Good communication is key!

• Importance of accurate and comprehensive documentation.
• Effective communication with healthcare providers and caregivers.
• Documenting AD episodes and interventions.

Module 7: Person-Centered Care and Individualised Approaches

In this module, we’ll understand that everyone is unique. We’ll learn how to look at things from the perspective of someone with AD. We’ll find out how to make a care plan that’s just right for that person and how to help them take charge of their AD.

• Understanding the unique needs and perspectives of individuals with AD.
• Tailoring care plans to individual circumstances.
• Empowering individuals to manage their own AD.

Module 8: Essential Components of an Autonomic Dysreflexia Care Plan

Here, we’ll figure out the important parts of a care plan for AD. We’ll learn how to spot what might trigger AD for a person and how to stop it from happening. We’ll also discover what to do in an emergency. And we’ll see why keeping an eye on how things are going is vital.

• Identification of individual triggers and risk factors.
• Strategies for preventing Autonomic Dysreflexia (AD) episodes.
• Emergency protocols for managing severe AD episodes.
• Ongoing monitoring and evaluation.

Who Should Attend:

• Nurses.
• Physiotherapists.
• Occupational therapists.
• Speech-language pathologists.
• Physicians.
• Caregivers.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Clearly define and describe autonomic dysreflexia (AD).
2. Confidently recognise the signs and symptoms of AD.
3. Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the potential consequences of AD.
4. Identify and effectively manage the causes and triggers of AD.
5. Implement evidence-based treatment and management strategies for AD.
6. Communicate effectively with healthcare providers and carers regarding AD.
7. Develop personalised AD care plans that prioritise person-centred care.
8. Accurately document AD episodes and interventions.

FAQs Autonomic Dysreflexia

1. What is the significance of this Autonomic Dysreflexia training course?

This training course is essential for healthcare professionals who work with individuals with spinal cord injuries. It provides the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage Autonomic Dysreflexia (AD), a potentially life-threatening condition that can significantly impact patient well-being.

2. How can Autonomic Dysreflexia training benefit individuals with spinal cord injuries?

Autonomic Dysreflexia training assists healthcare professionals in delivering enhanced care, promptly identifying AD episodes, and efficiently managing them, thereby enhancing the quality of life and safety of individuals with spinal cord injuries.

3. Is Autonomic Dysreflexia training available online or in-person?

Autonomic Dysreflexia (AD) training is offered in diverse formats, including online courses and in-person workshops. Participants have the flexibility to select the format that aligns with their requirements and schedule.

Great course delivered as part of a complex care training package for a spinal injury patient, our staff now feel confident in their understanding and actions.