Designing study nurses' training to enhance research integrity: a macroergonomic approach

AMIA Annu Symp Proc. 2006:2006:439-43.

Abstract

Successful field evaluation of informatics initiatives designed to create technology-enhanced professional practice relies on adequate training of experimental participants. However, such training presents design, implementation and evaluation challenges. A macroergonomic approach, focusing on an organizational view of people, technology, task and environment interactions in work systems, provides a framework for training that allows anticipation and compensation for challenges. In the HeartCare II project, we developed a multi-level training program for nurses and patients enrolled in a field trial of an innovative technology-enhanced professional practice model. Using a macroergonomic approach, we designed three waves of training centered on a train-the-trainer model. Evaluation tools for each training wave provided improvement feedback. Despite planning, a drop-off occurred between training waves, affecting both recruitment and patient training. Troubleshooting identified people, task, technology, and organizational concerns. Strategies to increase nurse buy-in and improve technical performance are making a difference. Organizational challenges remain the most intractable.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Education, Nursing / methods*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Medical Informatics / education*
  • Middle Aged
  • Nursing Evaluation Research / education*
  • Program Evaluation