OC16 - Calculation skills and e-learning platform: study pre-post test on students of paediatric nursing in Italy

Nurs Child Young People. 2016 May 9;28(4):67. doi: 10.7748/ncyp.28.4.67.s47.

Abstract

Theme: Child protection and managing risk. Errors in medication is a very recurring problem in paediatric units and for that reason paediatric nursing students have to possess good mathematical skills (Doherty C, 2012). It is important to evaluate these competences during their university nursing degree (Harvey 2009). This problem has been discussed and it was subsequently decided to introduce 'Clinical and Practical pharmacology' lessons like a mandatory subject.

Aim: Evaluate the paediatric nursing students learning curve before and after 'Clinical and Practical pharmacology' lessons, job placement and through an e-learning platform.

Methods: A before and after experimental study, using a non-randomized test, administered at different academic phases was used.

Results: Learning curve had an increase from 54.09 % to 82.65 %. In particular, that result is significant before 'Clinical and Practical pharmacology' lessons and at final test (p<0.00578).

Conclusion: These study results are helpful for increased training action and to develop a customized e-learning platform.

Keywords: Nursing student; children.; drug calculation; mathematical error; skill calculation.