Using evidence-integrated e-learning to enhance case management continuing education for psychiatric nurses: A randomised controlled trial with follow-up

SummaryBackground ning is a flexible strategy to improve nursesʹ knowledge of case management, but there are methodological limitations in previous research into the effectiveness of such programs. e cribe the development and effectiveness of an evidence-integrated e-learning program in case management continuing education for Taiwanese psychiatric nurses. le methods were adopted to develop the program and a randomised controlled trial with repeated measures was employed to evaluate it. s learning program was developed in four stages: (1) systematic review of literature; (2) needs assessment through a national survey and focus group; (3) development of learning materials; and (4) pilot test. Following program development, psychiatric nurses were recruited and randomly allocated into an experimental or comparison group. The experimental group participated in an e-learning continuing education program. The case management knowledge index with sufficient reliability and validity and a satisfaction survey were used to determine the outcomes. A generalised estimating equation was used to assess the difference between the 2 groups before, after, and at 3 months follow-up. s arning material comprised 5 simulated learning modules, self-assessment questions, learning cases, sharing experiences, and learning resources. A total of 200 participants completed the 3 measurements. Knowledge scores in the experimental group significantly exceeded those in the comparison group after the program and at the 3-month follow-up. Participants reported positive learning perceptions. sion ogram provides an evidence-based educational resource for nursing continuing education in case management.