Canadian nursing e-learning network to be launched

An online learning network is being launched that aims to assist healthcare professionals in developing and updating their skills and abilities.

The e-leaning project is being unveiled by the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) and aims to connect people across the country to over 145 accredited online training courses.

Participants will be able to examine over 215 hours' worth of informative and educational material dealing with subjects such as critical care and leadership.

The innovative digital educational platform will also provide nurses with discussion boards, where they can talk to specialists or other people in the industry to share their knowledge, as well as a central repository that allows them to store e-learning courses.

Distance learning online will enable both licensed practical nurses and registered psychiatric professionals in both rural and urban districts throughout every Canadian territory and province to take advantage of the new academic programme.

It will be formally launched at the CNA's biennial Vancouver convention, which takes place from June 18th to 20th.

Almost 300 nurses took part in a demo of the virtual learning environment recently though a webinar.

"Whether it's electronic health records or medication management apps, we're always looking for ways technology can help deliver safe, efficient care to Canadians," president of the organisation Judith Shamian said.

It "is going to make staying current and connected easy for nurses, no matter where they are in the country", she added.

The UK's Nursing Times recently reported that an online learning tool dealing with a range of healthcare issues has improved standards of care within Birmingham's Heart of England National Health Service Foundation Trust.

Levels of catheter use, pressure ulcers, falls and other medical issues have fallen since the initiative was introduced in the district, an analysis found.

More than 2,000 people have completed the e-learning service's assessment since it was first made available around 18 months ago.