Eating disorders

The Eating Disorders course provides a comprehensive exploration of identifying, monitoring, and managing eating disorders in healthcare settings. This course is divided into two focused units, blending theoretical insights with practical approaches to patient care.

Unit 1: Understanding Eating Disorders – Part A
This foundational unit examines the diagnostic criteria and prevalence of eating disorders, emphasising the importance of early identification and intervention. Participants will explore high-risk populations, screening tools like the SCOFF and ESP questionnaires, and early warning signs across physical, psychological, and behavioural dimensions. Discussions include understanding the complexities of eating disorders, their potential functions as coping mechanisms, and their genetic and environmental underpinnings.
Key topics include:
- Diagnostic criteria for anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, ARFID, and OSFED.
- Prevalence and risk factors for eating disorders.
- Early identification through screening tools and warning signs.
- Understanding eating disorders’ genetic predisposition and psychological dynamics.

Unit 2: Managing Eating Disorders – Part B
The second unit focuses on the practical aspects of managing eating disorders within a multidisciplinary framework. Participants will learn about medical monitoring protocols, admission criteria for inpatient care, and treatment pathways involving dieticians, mental health clinicians, and other specialists. The unit emphasises the importance of medical monitoring, including vital signs, lab tests, and ECGs, and highlights evidence-based psychological and nutritional interventions.
Key topics include:
- Medical monitoring and criteria for inpatient admission.
- Role of GPs in multidisciplinary care teams.
- Treatment options including CBT, family-based therapy, and nutrition rehabilitation.
- Referral pathways and the role of allied health professionals.

This course equips healthcare professionals to adopt a holistic approach to eating disorders, integrating medical, psychological, and nutritional care for effective patient management. Participants will gain practical skills and tools to ensure patient safety and foster recovery within inclusive, patient-centered frameworks.