Development, implementation, and evaluation of a state-wide gastrostomy training program: A proposed education model

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Education
• Clinical Practice
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Home enteral tube feeding is associated with significant patient risks, including complications and hospital readmissions.
• Current health professional training often lacks comprehensive enteral nutrition education.
• There is a critical need for specialized training to manage gastrostomy tubes effectively.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the development of a comprehensive, state-wide gastrostomy education and training program.
• To evaluate the program's impact over a seven-year period using the RE-AIM framework.

Main Methods:

• A spiral learning model, stakeholder input, literature review, and consumer engagement informed program development.
• Medico-legal aspects such as credentialing and competencies were addressed.
• The RE-AIM (Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, Maintenance) framework guided outcome evaluation.

Main Results:

• 819 clinicians completed online modules, with 178 and 42 attending specialized workshops.
• 85 extended care paramedic trainees also participated.
• Significant improvements were observed: an 11% increase in knowledge and a 23% increase in confidence.

Conclusions:

• The state-wide program successfully equipped health professionals with gastrostomy care expertise, promoting consistent and safe practices.
• The program expanded its reach to regional and ambulance services over seven years.
• The program's development model offers valuable insights for future healthcare training program design.