MUSC's Institute of Psychiatry (IOP) will present the 8th Annual Psychiatric Nursing Learning Institute "Neurobiology: Implications for Psychiatric Nursing Practice" on Sept. 18-19 at the IOP.

Substantial scientific and technological advances have occurred in the 1990's. “The Decade of the Brain" has generated increased understanding of the biological causes of mental illness. It is essential that all health care professionals understand the symptoms, causes, psychopharmacology and clinical management of common neurological and psychiatric disorders.

The Learning Institute features presenters who are nationally recognized experts in neurobiology, psychopharmacology, acupuncture, herbs and nutrition-mood connection.

This conference will be beneficial to health care professionals in both staff and advanced practice positions in general hospitals, psychiatric facilities, community settings, home health care agencies, and nursing homes.

At the conclusion of the conference, participants will be able to: understand brain anatomy at macroscopic and microscopic levels; describe the pharmacokinetic principles related to psychotropic drugs; identify nutrients which affect neurotransmitters; discuss formal study of herbal products in psychiatry; and recognize prevalence of acupuncture use in the United States and current National Institutes of Health consensus panel report.

Contact hours have been applied for through the South Carolina Nurses' Association. The fees are: early registration (by July 17) $115, late registration (after July 17) $130.

For more information, or to register, call (843) 792-0161.