The effectiveness of blended learning in basic life support training among nursing students: A systematic review

Abstract

Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) is a global health problem and poses challenges in various fields, including education. Some training programs such as Basic Life Support (BLS) training need to adapt to new policies, which are physical and social distancing. Blended learning by combining face-to-face with online training, may help achieve BLS competencies for health care professionals, including nursing students. This systematic review was conducted to explore blended learning effectiveness in BLS training for nursing student populations. The electronic search strategy was conducted from PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane for the years 2010 to 2020 with full text in English. This review followed the PRISMA guidelines. The initial search yielded 240 studies, and six of those studies were eventually included. The results reported there were three blended learning models appeared, including face to face learning combined with e-learning website, combined with video-based, and combined with computer-based simulations. With an intervention duration of four hours to two weeks, there was an indication of several improving outcomes, including skills, knowledge, attitudes, self-efficacy, problem-solving abilities, and willingness to perform resuscitation. Furthermore, the skill outcome is significantly more effective in blended learning of face-to-face models combined with the e-learning website and combined with computer-based simulations. The knowledge outcome parameter likely is the most effective from all of three blended learning models. These findings imply that BLS training needs to use blended learning models by modifying the training modules, facilities, and infrastructure as consideration.   Keywords: Basic life support, blended learning, nursing students, systematic review