The development of a self-directed e-learning resource on burn care nursing

Abstract

Background: A burn injury is defined as a traumatic injury resulting in partial or complete destruction of the skin and underlying tissue. Burn patients often present with complex care needs and are at risk for numerous complications. Registered Nurses (RNs) are expected to manage burn patients’ complex needs; however, without established formal training, it is difficult to ensure the delivery of consistent care. Purpose: The purpose of this practicum project was to develop a learning resource for RNs working on the burn unit to support them in caring for patients with burn injuries. Methods: The four methods consisted of: 1) an integrated literature review, 2) an environmental scan to determine the existing resources for burn care nursing, 3) consultations with the Burn Committee members and staff RNs through semi-structured interviews, and 4) development of a self-directed e-learning resource. Results: The literature review findings supported that RNs experience difficulties managing burn patients’ care, and desire additional education and training pertaining to burn care nursing. The environmental scan did not reveal any findings directly applicable to the development of this e-learning resource. The consultations supported the need for education on burn care and methods of content delivery and key topics were identified for the learning resource. Based on the findings of the integrated literature review, environmental scan, and consultations, a five-module self-directed e-learning resource was developed on the assessment, monitoring, and treatments required by patients with burn injuries. Conclusion: The e-learning resource was developed to address the learning needs of the RNs on the burn unit and will be provided to the clinical educator to distribute to newly orientating RNs. It will also be available to other staff RNs of the burn unit interested in learning more about burn care nursing.