Effects of Implementing a Simulation-Learning Based Training Using a Train-The-Trainer Model on the Acquisition and...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Pediatric Nursing
• Public Health

Background:

• Infant safe sleep practices are critical for reducing Sudden Unexpected Infant Deaths (SUID).
• Effective training methods are needed to ensure healthcare providers possess up-to-date knowledge on safe sleep guidelines.
• A train-the-trainer model offers a scalable approach to disseminate knowledge within healthcare settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effectiveness of a simulation-learning based training program utilizing a train-the-trainer model.
• To evaluate the impact of this training on nursing staff's knowledge acquisition and retention regarding infant safe sleep.
• To determine the efficacy of this educational strategy in a women's and children's hospital setting.

Main Methods:

• A two-phase, quasi-experimental study with repeated measures was conducted.
• The study involved 120 nurses in phase I and 74 in phase II.
• Kolb's Experiential Learning Theory and Observational Experiential Theory guided the study design.

Main Results:

• Statistically significant increases in knowledge scores were observed immediately post-training and at three-month follow-up (p < .001).
• Nurses in postpartum, well-baby nursery, and pediatric departments showed significant knowledge improvements.
• The pediatric intensive care unit did not demonstrate statistically significant knowledge gains at follow-up (p = .086).

Conclusions:

• Simulation-based training using a train-the-trainer approach positively impacts nurses' knowledge of infant safe sleep and SUID prevention.
• The findings support the use of this educational model for improving safe sleep knowledge among nursing staff.
• Further research with longer follow-up periods is recommended to ascertain the long-term effects of the training.