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Educational interventions to improve electrocardiogram interpretation competence among nurses: A systematic review
Emily Boyd1, Micheál Lynch1, Vivien Coates1
1School of Nursing and Paramedic Science, Ulster University, Derry-Londonderry, UK.
Nurse Education in Practice
|May 16, 2026
Summary
Educational interventions improve nurses' electrocardiogram interpretation skills. Ongoing training and spaced learning are key for sustained competence in this vital nursing skill.
Area of Science:
- Nursing Education
- Cardiology
- Clinical Competence
Background:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) interpretation is crucial for nurses in managing cardiac conditions.
- Nurses frequently exhibit suboptimal ECG interpretation skills, with inconsistent educational preparation.
- There is a need to evaluate effective educational strategies for improving ECG interpretation competence.
Conclusions:
- Educational interventions are effective in improving nurses' ECG interpretation competence.
- ECG interpretation requires continuous development, not just one-off training.
- Spaced learning and reinforcement strategies are recommended for sustained competence.
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