Continuing Education in Patient Safety: Massive Open Online Courses as a New Training Tool

Describe the use of two massive open online courses designed to provide education on patient safety. Review follow-up evaluation data from the courses. DISCLOSURE STATEMENT: Neither the planners nor the authors have any conflicts of interest to disclose.

The Nursing School of the University of Cantabria conducted a training session on patient safety through two massive open online courses (MOOCs) aimed at the general population and especially Spanish-speaking health professionals. This study aimed to analyze the profile of health professionals who have completed the courses, their degree of satisfaction, and the percentage of completion.

In this retrospective and observational study, two MOOCs on clinical safety were created through an online platform (MiríadaX). Quantitative analysis of the profile of health professionals, their degree of satisfaction, and the percentage of completion was performed.

A total of 12,400 students were enrolled, and the average completion rate was 32%. The profile of the average student was female, 37 years old, college educated, a nurse in a hospital, and interested in the course because it may be useful for performing her work. Fifty-five percent of students were very satisfied with the course.

MOOCs are considered to be effective and easily accessible, with quality content for professional continuing education that encourages interdisciplinary work and meeting professionals from around the world.