Development and evaluation of a blended-learning training for healthcare professionals to become ‘CURA-ambassadors’

Abstract

Abstract Background CURA is an instrument for ethical reflection on morally challenging situations. A previous study found that a training could optimally equip healthcare professionals to introduce CURA in their organization, initiate and facilitate reflections with CURA, and contribute to the implementation of CURA. Therefore, the aim of this study was to develop and evaluate a training for so-called ‘CURA-ambassadors’. Method The blended learning program of the training was developed and evaluated using two cycles. We trained 72 health care professionals. The training was evaluated by means of a questionnaire and six semi-structured interviews. Results The study resulted in a blended learning training combining training sessions with an e-module. The main objectives of the training are to enable CURA-ambassadors to introduce CURA within their organization, initiate and facilitate ethical reflections using CURA, and contribute to the implementation of CURA. Participants were positive about the training program and the trainers. Technical difficulties related to the e-module were mentioned as main point of improvement. Discussion The training program enables CURA-ambassadors to introduce CURA within their organization, to initiate and facilitate the use of the instrument. It can generate ownership, responsibility, and competency, which are essential for implementing complex interventions. The training program received positive evaluations shortly after completing the program. However, evaluation of a training program is ideally conducted over a longer period of time. Further research is needed to assess whether participants experience the training as sufficient and effective when using and implementing CURA structurally in their organizations.