Mental illness training on the Internet for nurse aides: a replication study

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Nursing Education
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Internet-based training for nurse aides (NAs) in long-term care facilities (LTCs) has demonstrated effectiveness.
• Limited understanding exists regarding the impact of online training on NAs in real-world settings and the sustained use of such programs.
• Replication of previous findings in a non-research context is crucial for validating training efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of an internet-based training program ('Caring Skills: Working with Mental Illness') for NAs in LTCs.
• To assess the feasibility and perceived benefits of online training in a practical, non-research setting.
• To explore the continued utilization of the training program by NAs and other staff.

Main Methods:

• A replication study was conducted across three LTCs, implementing the 'Caring Skills: Working with Mental Illness' internet training.
• All NAs within each facility received the training over consecutive months.
• Supervisors were interviewed post-training regarding their experiences with organization and oversight.

Main Results:

• Significant pre-post-test improvements were observed in NAs' situational knowledge, self-efficacy, and mental illness knowledge, with large effect sizes.
• Participants highly rated the program, believing it would enhance resident care quality.
• Supervisors reported positive feedback and observed NAs adopting recommended training behaviors, though broader staff utilization remained low.

Conclusions:

• Internet-based training for NAs in LTCs is a feasible and perceived beneficial approach to improving resident care.
• While initial training shows positive outcomes, strategies for sustained utilization and dissemination to all staff are necessary for long-term impact.
• Effective planning for staff training on the internet should incorporate mechanisms for continued engagement and best practice integration.