Improving Neonatal Resuscitation Skills with eLearning: Insights from LEARN-CHD Study

The recent study titled "Multicentre study protocol comparing standard NRP to deveLoped Educational Modules for Resuscitation of Neonates in the Delivery Room with Congenital Heart Disease (LEARN-CHD)" offers valuable insights for healthcare practitioners aiming to enhance their neonatal resuscitation skills, especially for infants with critical congenital heart defects (CCHDs). This study compares the effectiveness of traditional neonatal resuscitation program (NRP) training with newly developed eLearning modules designed specifically for resuscitating neonates with CCHDs.

Understanding the Need for Specialized Training

Infants born with CCHDs often require unique resuscitation and management strategies in the delivery room. Current NRP guidelines do not include specific modifications or educational content tailored to CCHDs. This gap in training can lead to variability in clinical practices and outcomes. The LEARN-CHD study addresses this issue by developing targeted eLearning modules that aim to improve healthcare provider (HCP) knowledge and team performance during resuscitations.

Study Design and Methodology

The LEARN-CHD study is a prospective multicentre trial involving HCPs proficient in standard NRP curriculum. Participants were randomized into two groups: one receiving directed readings on CCHDs and the other accessing the newly developed eLearning modules. The effectiveness of these modules was evaluated through individual pre- and post-knowledge testing and team-based resuscitation simulations.

Key Findings and Outcomes

The study focused on three specific CCHD lesions:

• Transposition of great arteries with intact ventricular septum (TGA-IVS) with restricted atrial-level blood flow
• Hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS)
• Congenital third-degree heart block

The eLearning modules were designed to be concise, high-yield, and clinically relevant, covering essential topics such as:

• Fetal to neonatal circulation transition
• Common arrhythmias in the immediate newborn period
• Management of HLHS and TGA-IVS in the delivery room

Each module took approximately 15 minutes to complete, with additional time for reflection and review. The study found that HCPs who completed the eLearning modules showed improved technical performance and better team coordination during resuscitation simulations compared to those who only did directed readings.

Implications for Practice

The findings from the LEARN-CHD study highlight the potential benefits of incorporating eLearning modules into neonatal resuscitation training. These modules can serve as a valuable supplement to the standard NRP curriculum, providing HCPs with the specialized knowledge needed to manage neonates with CCHDs effectively. By making these educational resources easily accessible, particularly to those in remote or less experienced settings, the overall competency in neonatal resuscitation can be significantly enhanced.

Encouraging Further Research

While the LEARN-CHD study provides a promising proof of concept, further research is needed to develop eLearning modules for other critical congenital heart diseases. Expanding the scope of these educational tools can ensure that HCPs are well-prepared to handle a wide range of neonatal cardiac conditions.To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Multicentre study protocol comparing standard NRP to deveLoped Educational Modules for Resuscitation of Neonates in the Delivery Room with Congenital Heart Disease (LEARN-CHD).