Improving infection control competency through an online learning course.
BACKGROUND
While most staff are aware of the basics of infection prevention and control, this can be eroded over time. In addition, it is difficult to keep up with emerging best practices.


OBJECTIVE
To develop an online course to improve infection prevention and control competency and access to training.


METHODS
Surveys were conducted with 76 healthcare professionals, most of whom were nurses, before and after the course.


RESULTS
Participants made significant increases in competency scores, and satisfaction with the course was high.


CONCLUSIONS
A number of barriers to online learning in the workplace were identified. Organisational support in terms of protected training time, computers and internet access are essential.


CONCLUSIONS
Online learning can be an effective way for nurses to learn or refresh their skills and knowledge but needs employer support to be successful.
Atack
Lynda
L
School of Community and Health Studies, Centennial College, Toronto, Canada.
Luke
Robert
R
D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D001292:Attitude to Computers; D019985:Benchmarking; D002983:Clinical Competence; D003194:Computer-Assisted Instruction / Q000379:methods*; D004509:Education, Nursing, Continuing / Q000379:methods*; D006235:Hand Disinfection; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D017053:Infection Control; D020407:Internet / Q000458:organization & administration*; D015402:Nursing Education Research; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital / Q000193:education* / Q000523:psychology; D009864:Ontario; D015397:Program Evaluation; D012647:Self-Assessment; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires