Mastering tracheostomy care: Refresher programme for tracheostomy training for nurses: Comparison of two training methods based on hands-on simulation-based training alone versus additional complementary self-directed e-learning.

Background: Effective clinical education is essential for managing tracheostomy patients safely and efficiently. Simulation-based training has shown greater efficacy than traditional methods in various clinical settings. Our internal training programme, called the Tracheostomy Refresher Program (TRP) was used to enhance nurses' skills in tracheostomy care.

Aim/objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of the TRP on nurses' self-reported knowledge and confidence and psychomotor skills comparing hands-on simulation-based training alone (TRP-S) with both the simulation-based training and the e-learning component (TRP-S + e).

Methods: The study was conducted at a large tertiary hospital in Singapore from February 2022 to October 2022, focussing on the TRP. Participants were divided into two cohorts: those receiving TRP-S and those receiving additional complementary TRP-S + e. All participants completed theory tests and affective questionnaires before and after the training to assess knowledge and attitudes. At the same time, their psychomotor skills were evaluated during the simulation using a standardised checklist. The two cohorts were then compared based on the results of these pretests and post-tests and the psychomotor skills assessment to evaluate the effectiveness of the additional e-learning component.

Results: Participants reported significantly enhanced confidence, knowledge, and psychomotor skills in tracheostomy care post training (p < 0.001 for all). The TRP-S + e cohort showed significantly higher knowledge and confidence scores than the TRP-S cohort (p < 0.001 for both).

Conclusion: Our study suggests that a TRP incorporating hands-on simulation-based training with or without e-learning significantly improved self-reported knowledge, confidence, and psychomotor skills in tracheostomy care. Future research should explore the optimal duration, engagement strategies, and cost-effectiveness of such educational techniques and whether similar approaches can be applied for other clinical skills.