MODULE 1
Pathophysiology of Pain and Neurobiology of Addiction Overview Theresa Mallick-Searle, MS, PMGT-BC, ANP-BC, FAANP
0.90 CE / 0.00 RX This module provides an overview of pain physiology—including transduction, transmission, modulation, and perception—and explains key concepts such as allodynia, hyperalgesia, and referred pain. It also explores the neurobiology of addiction, the brain’s reward and stress systems, shared neural pathways between pain and substance use disorders, and factors that influence vulnerability. Learners gain foundational clinical insight into how chronic pain and addiction intersect. Objectives:- Discuss pathophysiology of pain.
- Review the shared neurobiological mechanisms of addiction/DSM 5 criteria.
- Describe the complexities of pain management with comorbid substance use disorder.
MODULE 2
Non-Pharmacologic Treatment of Pain Heather J. Jackson, PhD, APRN, FNP-BC, NEA-BC, FAANP
1.00 CE / 0.00 RX This module examines multidisciplinary, non-pharmacologic strategies for pain management, including behavioral therapies (CBT, ACT, hypnosis), physical therapy, neuromodulation approaches (TENS, TMS, VNS), interventional procedures, and complementary therapies such as acupuncture, guided imagery, massage, aromatherapy, and virtual reality. Emphasis is placed on multimodal care, risk assessment, prevention of use disorders, and addressing biopsychosocial contributors to pain. Objectives:- Analyze pain management strategies for patients with use disorders and assess methods to prevent the development of such disorders.
- Investigate interventional pain management options by identifying and evaluating various techniques and their applications.
- Explain the role of behavioral and psychological approaches in pain management by detailing their principles and effectiveness in treatment.
- Discuss complementary pain management treatment options.
MODULE 3
Non-Opioid Pharmacology Treatment of Pain Heather J. Jackson, PhD, APRN, FNP-BC, NEA-BC, FAANP
1.00 CE / 1.00 RX This module reviews non-opioid medication options for acute and chronic pain, including acetaminophen, NSAIDs, steroids, topicals, membrane stabilizers, antidepressants, and muscle relaxants. It covers mechanisms of action within pain pathways, safety considerations, polypharmacy implications, class-specific risks, and practical prescribing guidance for aligning treatments with individual pain types. Objectives:- Describe medications actions within pain pathways.
- Classify medication classes and determine indications for various types of pain management.
- Analyze the role of polypharmacy in pain management by evaluating benefits, risks, and overall impact on patient outcomes.
MODULE 4
Care Transitions and New Frontiers in SUD Treatment Beth Williams, MSN, AGNP, MPH, CARN-AP
1.00 CE / 0.00 RX This module outlines the NP role across the SUD care continuum, highlighting care delivery in primary care, acute care, inpatient settings, and specialty treatment programs. It reviews transition challenges, best practices for bridge prescribing and care navigation, stigma mitigation, and approaches for justice-involved and peripartum patients. The module concludes with emerging frontiers in personalized SUD care, including genetic testing considerations. Objectives:- Discuss the role of nurse practitioners in SUD care.
- Review unique aspects of specific settings where patients access SUD care.
- Understand best practices for transitions in SUD care.
- Review new research in SUD management and where the field is headed.
MODULE 5
Substance Use Disorders: Opioids Amanda LaMonica-Weier, DNP, MAT, APRN, FNP-BC, CNE
1.00 CE / 0.25 RX This module provides a historical and clinical overview of opioids, including opioid types, the trajectory of the opioid epidemic, and the three major “waves” of overdose deaths. It covers DSM-5 diagnostic criteria, myths and stigma surrounding OUD, public and provider biases, and the importance of person-first, non-stigmatizing language. Evidence-based treatments—motivational interviewing, harm reduction, and behavioral strategies—are presented with case examples. Objectives:- Explain the history of opioids and major milestones for treatment.
- Review the rationale for treatment while summarizing myths/stigma that persist in healthcare.
- Describe base-level evidence-based treatment recommendations for patients with substance use disorder.
MODULE 6
Opioid Prescribing Update Theresa Mallick-Searle, MS, PMGT-BC, ANP-BC, FAANP
1.28 CE / 1.28 RX This module synthesizes major changes in opioid prescribing guidelines, including 2016 and 2022 CDC recommendations, updated 2025 prescribing trends, PDMP use, and risk mitigation practices. It reviews opioid selection, dosing, tapering principles, safety considerations (e.g., OIRD, benzodiazepine co-prescribing risk), documentation requirements, and patient-provider agreements. Learners gain practical guidance on safe, patient-centered opioid stewardship. Objectives:- Determine the appropriate circumstances for prescribing opioids by applying clinical guidelines and patient assessments.
- Discuss monitoring parameters necessary for prescribing chronic opioid therapy, including patient evaluation and risk management strategies.
- Identify two patient behaviors/situations that would warrant consideration for opioid weaning.
MODULE 7
Buprenorphine and Methadone Beth Williams, MSN, AGNP, MPH, CARN-AP
1.20 CE / 1.00 RX This module explains the pharmacology, safety considerations, and clinical application of buprenorphine and methadone for pain and opioid use disorder. It includes dosing principles, initiation strategies (including micro-induction), regulatory frameworks, and best practices for managing patients on MOUD across settings. The module emphasizes harm reduction, patient-centered care, and reducing barriers to medication access. Objectives:- Review the pharmacology, formulations, and uses of medications for opioid use disorder including buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone.
- Discuss methods of initiating buprenorphine and how to employ a shared decision-making approach.
- Understand the use of buprenorphine for pain management.
- Review basic principles of harm reduction.
MODULE 8
Special Populations and Opioid Use Disorder Treatment Amanda LaMonica-Weier, DNP, MAT, APRN, FNP-BC, CNE
0.78 CE / 0.78 RX This module focuses on delivering equitable, trauma-informed, evidence-based care to populations with unique needs, including pregnant and postpartum individuals, adolescents, older adults, and patients using CNS depressants. It addresses stigma, social determinants of health, co-occurring mental health conditions, and best practices that support safety, engagement, and person-centered treatment planning. Objectives:- Analyze treatment strategies for individuals with co-occurring OUD and complex diagnoses.
- Apply treatment approaches for pregnancy, diverse age groups, and individuals who use CNS depressants.
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