Waterloo Pharmacy Lifelong Learning

This course is CCCEP-accredited for 2 CEUs (8013-2024-3860-I-P, Aug 28, 2024- Aug 28 2026.)

• The risks of vaccine-preventable diseases among those who are pregnant and their babies 
• Vaccine safety in pregnancy 
• Vaccine recommendations and schedules for before, during, and after pregnancy 
• Providing vaccination care for patients who are planning or are currently pregnant in your pharmacy practice 

Modules and Learning Objectives 

The program is delivered completely online. It consists of three modules and takes approximately two hours to complete. All users who complete the course (achieving at least 70% on the final quiz) can download a Statement of Completion.

After completing the content, participants should be able to: 

Module 1: Safety and effectiveness of vaccination in pregnancy 

• Explain the goals of vaccination in pregnancy  
• Describe the types of immunity & how immune cells are produced upon vaccination  
• Discuss passive immunity through the transfer of antibodies to the fetus  
• Describe the capabilities and limitations of an infant’s immune system  
• Classify currently available vaccines by type and their expected or known safety in pregnancy  

Module 2: Vaccinations specifically recommended in pregnancy or in those planning pregnancy   

• Identify vaccines that should be recommended to a person planning a pregnancy  
• Provide education on the benefits and safety of recommended vaccines  
• Create an action plan for a patient that includes recommended vaccines and their timing from planning a pregnancy through to delivery  

Module 3: Enhancing maternal vaccination in practice 

• Address vaccine hesitancy among those who are or are planning to become pregnant  
• Identify their scope of practice related to maternal vaccination  
• Describe the importance of the cocoon strategy to protect mothers and infants  
• Guide patients to reputable sources for information on vaccination in pregnancy 

Dr. Houle received her Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from the University of Saskatchewan and her PhD from the Department of Medicine at the University of Alberta. She has practice experience in hospital, home care, community pharmacy, and primary-care team settings, including with an international travel and immunizations clinic. She is an Associate Professor at the University of Waterloo School of Pharmacy, with teaching and research interests in pharmacy practice to full scope with a focus on immunizations and travel medicine. She is a sought-after speaker and contributor to continuing professional development programs and policy papers in immunizations and is passionate about supporting all vaccinators in their efforts to optimize population vaccination rates.