EKG and EHR Training for Nurses

Using the Hybrid/Blended Learning model in combination with other learning strategies to educate nurses can be an effective training strategy. 

GE MAC 1200 ECG / EKG Machine

Training the use of any EKG machine is best done by the hybrid learning.  Hybrid learning uses face to face teaching followed by online instruction.  When using face to face teaching, the instructor can facilitate demonstrations to help enhance the learning capabilities of the student.  The instructor can give a short lecture of the description, use, and function of the equipment, followed by a quick demonstration which allows for interaction through participation.  Following this instruction, the educator can use online education on the function of the GE MAC 1200 ECG/EKG Machine.   Assigning a online tutorial video and quizzes would allow the student to demonstrate their response to the education provided.  This can provide the educator with feedback of the effectiveness of the hybrid learning strategy. 

Below is an example of the online tutorial:  

https://youtu.be/t_gthcFiECg

"In summary, after applying various learning theories in order to improve the teaching-and-learning process, it was found that there was a great opportunity to incorporate many of these learning theories into an integrated application. The further development of an integrated digital platform in this research has led to a successful hybrid e-learning model, and proved that there is great interest in integrating different learning theories into e-learning applications" (Tsai, 2011).

Training Nurses on a new Electronic Health Record (EHR) System

Training nurses on the use of a new EHR system can be challenging.  This in part is due to the generational diversity among nurses.  In lieu of this, learning strategies should be aimed at concentrating on the multidisciplinary approach of teaching.  In this case, using Gardner's Multiple Disciplines through auditory, visual, and kinesthetic learning tools in combination with the Hybrid Learning Model can be very effective.  During face to face lecture, the nurse informaticist can reinforce learning strategies through visual and hands on training.  The Informatics nurse can assess the whether the online teaching objectives were achieved by having nurses complete electronic health record applications by entering specific patient data into the EHR. 

"Training on HIT can influence providers’ willingness and ability to use EHRs effectively. Training helps providers understand how the system can be leveraged in clinical practice and introduces features and functionality with which providers may not be familiar. Training is associated with improved use of advanced electronic health record features such as templates and order sets" (Bredfeldt et al., 2013).

References:

TSAI, A. (2011). A HYBRID E-LEARNING MODEL INCORPORATING SOME OF THE PRINCIPAL LEARNING THEORIES. Social Behavior & Personality: An International Journal, 39(2), 145-152. doi:10.2224/sbp.2011.39.2.145

Bredfeldt, C. E., Awad, E. B., Joseph, K., & Snyder, M. H. (2013). Training providers: beyond the basics of electronic health records. BMC Health Services Research, 13(1), 1-14. doi:10.1186/1472-6963-13-503