title: Computer-assisted instruction for novice nurses in critical care.
abstract: The current worldwide nursing shortage is having the greatest effect on the critical care areas as novice nurses enter these specialty areas in unprecedented numbers. Massive healthcare restructuring, a rapidly aging nursing work force, and high nursing turnover and absenteeism rates have all contributed to a healthcare environment that is struggling to care for critically ill patients. Computer-assisted instruction in the form of interactive computer programs may be used as an adjunct educational resource for these novice practitioners. These programs have the potential to bridge the gap between theory and practice, which may assist the novice nurse in achieving safe, competent clinical practice.
authors.affiliation: Hamilton Health Sciences, Cardiac and Vascular Program, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
authors.forename: Irene L
authors.initials: IL
authors.lastname: Travale
mesh_terms: D000041:Absenteeism; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D016251:CD-ROM; D002983:Clinical Competence; D003194:Computer-Assisted Instruction / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D003422:Critical Care / Q000458:organization & administration; D003479:Curriculum; D004509:Education, Nursing, Continuing / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D007318:Inservice Training / Q000458:organization & administration*; D020380:Needs Assessment; D015402:Nursing Education Research; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital / Q000193:education* / Q000458:organization & administration / Q000523:psychology; D009742:Nursing Theory; D009864:Ontario; D010563:Personnel Turnover; D016730:Program Development; D015397:Program Evaluation; D012449:Safety; D014584:User-Computer Interface