New Versions of Electronic-Learning Training on Confusion Assessment Method-Intensive Care Unit: a Randomized, Controlled Study

Abstract

Background: To compare the learning effectiveness of old and new versions of electronic-learning training material for intensive care unit (ICU) nurses on the detection of delirium using the Confusion Assessment Method–Intensive Care Unit (CAM-ICU). Methods: A prospective, randomized, controlled study was conducted. All assigned nurses underwent CAM–ICU training with either old or new versions of e-learning material. After the course, the post e-learning tests were conducted with 4 standardized patients (actors) and the percentage of correct delirium assessment (pass rates) of the 2 training groups were compared. Learner satisfaction and examiner comments were also analyzed. Results: In all, 150 ICU nurses from a single university hospital with 5 different ICUs were enrolled and randomized. As 8 nurses were unable to participate in the post e-learning tests, 74 from the old-version group and 68 from the revised-version group remained for analysis. The overall pass rates of the 2 groups did not statistically differ (55.9% vs 43.2%). The overall learner-satisfaction score was significantly higher for the new version than the previous version (3.80±0.70 vs 3.50±0.71, P=0.013). Learner-satisfaction scores for the revised version were also significantly better for the introduction (3.88±0.66 vs 3.54±0.78, P=0.006); conclusion (3.88±0.77 vs 3.54±0.84, P=0.015); graphic design (3.73±0.87 vs 3.39±0.78, P=0.014); and lecturing technique (3.79±0.87 vs 3.45±0.85, P=0.020). Conclusion: The updated e-learning training material on the CAM-ICU was not inferior to the preceding version. Learner satisfaction was significantly greater for the new version. E-learning can be considered an alternative tool for CAM-ICU assessment training. E-learning can be considered an alternative tool for CAM-ICU assessment training.