Following the success of previous editions, the Pleural Medicine Unit at Northern Health will again host its highly regarded Pleural Diseases: A Thoracic Ultrasound & Pleural Procedure Workshop, providing healthcare professionals with advanced training in thoracic ultrasound and pleural procedures. The workshop will be held on 29-30 August 2026 at the Northern Centre for Health Education and Research in Epping.
The Australasian Society of Ultrasound Medicine (ASUM) and Thoracic Society Australia and New Zealand (TSANZ)-accredited workshop return after earlier programs attracted strong interest and positive feedback from participants, highlighting the growing demand for practical, evidence-based education in pleural medicine.
Convened by Associate Professor Sanjeevan Muruganandan, Respiratory Physician and Pleural Lead, and Kirstin Tirant, Pleural Nurse Practitioner, the two-day program combines expert lectures, small-group teaching and extensive hands-on learning opportunities.
Participants will gain practical experience in thoracic ultrasound, the diagnosis and management of common pleural diseases, thoracentesis and chest tube placement using simulation models, indwelling pleural catheter insertion and aftercare, digital drainage systems, and the management of procedural complications. The course also includes UG-STAT assessment for clinicians seeking TSANZ accreditation.
Pleural disease is a common and has more than 50 different causes. It is a challenge across many areas of medicine, and there is increasing recognition internationally and evidence of the importance of structured training and competency assessment to ensure safe procedures to improve patient outcomes.
A/Prof Sanjeevan Muruganandan says, “One of the greatest strengths of this workshop is the multidisciplinary national leaders as faculty and its focus on hands-on training. Participants don’t just learn the theory, they have the opportunity to practise techniques under the guidance of experienced clinicians in a supportive environment.”
“Our goal is to help clinicians develop confidence, competency and consistency in pleural procedures. Ultimately, that translates into safer care and better outcomes for patients, ” said Pleural Nurse Practitioner, Kirstin Tirant.
“We welcome participants from respiratory medicine, emergency medicine, intensive care and general medicine, creating valuable opportunities for multidisciplinary learning and collaboration.”
The two day workshop will be held on the 29th and 30th August is suitable for physicians and trainees working in General Medicine, Emergency Medicine, Intensive Care Medicine and Respiratory Medicine. Places are limited to 20 participants and will be allocated in order of registration
Registrations close on 24 July 2026, with only a few places remaining. For bookings and further information email NH-NorthernPleuralCourse@nh.org.au