Recommended Citation
Montesa T, Tokarski J. Utilization of a Traveling Education Cart to Provide In-Situ Education. Poster presented at the LGH Nursing Symposium 2025; September 18, 2025; Park Ridge, IL.
Presentation Notes
Poster presented at the LGH Nursing Symposium 2025; September 18, 2025; Park Ridge, IL.
Abstract
Purpose/Rationale: After analyzing safety events and two learning needs assessments, an opportunity for improving cardiovascular and respiratory knowledge was evident. In-situ education was implemented to accommodate competing priorities such as time constraints and patient acuity. The education evaluated learners’ knowledge, skills, and confidence. Synthesis of Evidence: Evidence shows that interactive, simulation-based activities effectively engage learners and enhance critical thinking through application to clinical scenarios. There is also support for implementing a traveling education cart to disseminate information in a concise, flexible small-group format. CINAHL, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases were used to locate 19 references and adopt 6 articles to support this project. Practice Change: The education cart was piloted over 3 months in a 14-bed neuro ICU at a Magnet-designated, comprehensive stroke, teaching hospital. A multi-modal approach included case studies, gamification, discussions, and guided small-group simulations with high-risk, low-volume equipment. One cart featured an interactive activity for recognizing EKG rhythms and managing a defibrillator, while another included a Jeopardy game with hands-on respiratory devices and case study applications for escalating care. Implementation Strategies: The education cart advertisement was shared via email, unit meetings, and in person. A facilitator captured available nurses by rounding at nurse stations twice weekly for 3 months during the day shift. Each week, 1-2 topics were covered based on attendance and prior participation. Teammates scanned a QR code before and after sessions to assess learning and provide feedback, which helped influence future topics. Evaluation: Pre- and post-tests via QR code gathered qualitative and quantitative data. Multiple-choice and short-answer questions assessed knowledge and a 5-point Likert scale measured confidence changes. The EKG cart showed a 25% increase in confidence and an 18.75% improvement in knowledge. The respiratory cart showed 21% knowledge improvement; with one erroneous question removed, this result increased to 44%. Qualitative feedback was overall positive, with comments such as “helpful, necessary, great.” Implications for Practice: Positive results and feedback indicate that the education cart can effectively meet learners' needs with its flexible, brief, and engaging, small-group format. Next steps include partnering with a night shift champion and presenting the data to Professional Governance and hospital educators in other departments to adopt this innovative approach.
Document Type
Poster
Affiliations
Advocate Lutheran General Hospital