Effect of a Computer-Based Learning Module on Nurses' Performance Regarding Safety Arterial Blood Gases Sampling for High Risk Neonates

Arterial blood gases analysis considered a method for monitoring high-risk neonate's condition as itprovides the basic information for determining the adequacy of alveolar ventilation, acid-base status andoxygenation. Nurses' attention should be given to the following factors; infection control or universalprecautions as the neonates are at high risk of infection. Aim: The study aimed to evaluate the effect of acomputer-based learning module on nurses' performance regarding safety arterial blood gases samplingfor high risk neonates. Methods: A quasi-experimental research design conducted at Neonatal IntensiveCare Units (NICUs) and Surgical Neonatal Intensive Care Unit "SNICU" of Benha Specialized PediatricHospital. A purposive sample of available nurses (62) and high-risk neonates (74). Researchers usedthree tools as Online nurses' self-administered questionnaire designed to assess nurses’ personalcharacteristics and nurses' knowledge regarding safe blood sampling for high-risk neonates. The secondtool was nursing practice observation checklists. The third tool was High-risk Neonates' MedicalAssessment Record. Results: Findings of the current study revealed a statistically significant differencepre and post computerized-based learning module implementation regarding safety arterial blood gasesfor high-risk neonates. The results also revealed a highly statistically significant difference in nursingknowledge and practices (p < 0.001). Conclusion: It can be concluded that the research hypothesis isaccepted, the implemented computerized-based learning module improved nurses' knowledge andpractices towards safety arterial blood gases sampling for high-risk neonates. The study recommendedconducting periodical online programs for nurses in NICUs with continuous regular updating ofknowledge and practice regarding safe arterial blood gases sampling for high-risk neonates.