Nurses must always be learning to maintain and enhance their professional nursing competence. With constant changes and advancements in technology and medical knowledge, a nurse’s competencies and skills soon become outdated. As a result, their nursing practice becomes less effective – putting safe and ethical client health care at risk.

This eCourse is designed to motivate and assist healthcare practitioners to embrace ongoing continuing education and professional development. The course consists of seven modules including supplementary resources and a final exam. The first group of topics includes why continuous professional learning is important; how to assess your learning needs; and how to plan and evaluate your learning activities. The second set of topics is about digital learning – what it is; its many different aspects; how to use it for professional development; and risks and dangers associated with using digital technologies. The third group of topics covers such things as how to improve your memory; how to study more effectively and efficiently; how to organize your learning activities; and how to better manage your time.

To access a learning activity, simply click/tap on a Link below. Once you have completed an activity, return to this page to go to the next activity. We strongly recommend that the activities be done in the order shown; however, you are free to select your own learning paths.

Module 1: Introduction

1.1 Course introduction – A narrated multi-media overview of the course purpose, content and format, and suggestions on how to get the most out from this course (9 slides).

1.2 Navigation tutorial – A one-minute tour of the video player and its controls.

1.3 Podcast – To listen to this audio-only version, use the player below; or you can download the podcast (use the download link on player) to listen to it off-line at your convenience (11:14 minutes).

1.4 Interactive podcast app – Randomly accessible and searchable presentation slides and audio narration; ideal for downloading to mobile devices for just-in-time learning and information look-ups.

1.5 Handout (PDF | eBook) – Print and digital interactive versions of the presentation slides and narration that can be viewed and/or downloaded for off-line use.

Module 2: Continuing Competence

2.1 Continuing competence – A narrated multi-media presentation on the importance of lifelong professional development and continuing competence, a six step competence program, and competency development strategies (21 slides).

2.2 Podcast – To listen to this audio-only version, use the player below; or you can download the podcast (use the download link on player) to listen to it off-line at your convenience (14:53 minutes).

2.3 Interactive podcast app – Randomly accessible and searchable presentation slides and audio narration; ideal for downloading to mobile devices for just-in-time learning and information look-ups.

2.4 Handout (PDF | eBook) – Print and digital interactive versions of the presentation slides and narration that can be viewed and/or downloaded for off-line use.

2.5 Knowledge checkup – A flash-card type of interactive exercise to assess, review and reinforce your knowledge of the content and concepts provided in this module.

2.6 Online quiz – A short quiz on the contents of this module (20 random questions from 24).

Module 3: Digital Learning

3.1 Digital learning – A narrated multi-media presentation on digital literacy and learning, benefits and challenges of digital learning, finding online resources,  descriptions of the most common digital learning technologies, and how to get the most out of them (22 slides).

3.2 Podcast – To listen to this audio-only version, use the player below; or you can download the podcast (use the download link on player) to listen to it off-line at your convenience (22:15 minutes).

3.3 Interactive podcast app – Randomly accessible and searchable presentation slides and audio narration; ideal for downloading to mobile devices for just-in-time learning and information look-ups.

3.4 Handout (PDF | eBook) – Print and digital interactive versions of the presentation slides and narration that can be viewed and/or downloaded for off-line use.

3.5 Knowledge checkup – A flash-card type of interactive exercise to assess, review and reinforce your knowledge of the content and concepts provided in this module.

3.6 Online quiz – A short quiz on the contents of this module (20 random questions from 45).

Module 4: Learning Strategies

4.1 Learning strategies – A narrated multi-media presentation with tips for successful learning / professional development, and suggestions for improving your study habits (17 slides).

4.2 Podcast – To listen to this audio-only version, use the player below; or you can download the podcast (use the download link on player) to listen to it off-line at your convenience (15:27 minutes).

4.3 Interactive podcast app – Randomly accessible and searchable presentation slides and audio narration; ideal for downloading to mobile devices for just-in-time learning and information look-ups.

4.4 Handout (PDF | eBook) – Print and digital interactive versions of the presentation slides and narration that can be viewed and/or downloaded for off-line use.

4.5 Online quiz – A short quiz on the contents of this module (20 random questions from 45).

Module 5: Risks and Dangers

5.1 Risks and dangers – A narrated multi-media presentation on the risks and dangers associated with digital learning technologies such as identity theft, infection prevention and control, personal safety, privacy and confidentiality, unethical conduct, professional boundaries and malware (12 slides).

5.2 Podcast – To listen to this audio-only version, use the player below; or you can download the podcast (use the download link on player) to listen to it off-line at your convenience (8:53 minutes).

5.3 Interactive podcast app – Randomly accessible and searchable presentation slides and audio narration; ideal for downloading to mobile devices for just-in-time learning and information look-ups.

5.4 Handout (PDF | eBook) – Print and digital interactive versions of the presentation slides and narration that can be viewed and/or downloaded for off-line use.

5.5 Knowledge checkup – A flash-card type of interactive exercise to assess, review and reinforce your knowledge of the content and concepts provided in this module.

5.6 Online quiz – A short quiz on the contents of this module (20 random questions from 30).

Module 6: Related Resources

6.1 My Learning Styles – We learn by seeing, hearing and doing. Most of us have a preferred mode of learning. Take this anonymous self-scoring test to identify your preferred learning style(s), what it means, and what you can do to maximize learning effectiveness using your preferred learning style(s).

6.2 My Time Management – Time is required for professional learning. Take this anonymous self-scoring test to identify your time management (TM) strengths and weaknesses on 4 dimensions – organization, discipline, communication and saying “No”. Tips are provided on how to improve your TM skills to make more time for professional development.

6.3 Pomodoro Technique – A highly effective method of studying in 25 minutes segments followed by 5 minute breaks. (YouTube video – 5:48 minutes).

6.4 How to Learn Anything Faster – Five tips for increasing your learning speed by Practical Psychology. (YouTube video – 6:17 minutes).

6.5 The Most Powerful Way to Remember What You Study – The video by Thomas Frank explains research on how the brain works and the implications for more effective learning and study habits (YouTube – 7:46 minutes).

6.6 Feynman Technique – This video by Med School Insiders demonstrates how to use the Feynman technique to master difficult and complex concepts (YouTube – 5:45 minutes).

6.7 Super Human Productivity and Efficiency – Another video by Med School Insiders providing useful strategies on how to get organized and improve your personal and professional productivity (YouTube – 9:03 minutes).

6.8 Online Classes: Tips for Success – This video by the Penguin Prof examines research about what works, what doesn’t, and the advantages and challenges of online courses. Some excellent recommendations and tips are provided on getting the most from online courses for your professional development (YouTube – 10:48 minutes).

6.9 On Guard Online – Federal Trade Commission (USA) website with security tips, information and videos about how to stay safe and secure when using online / Internet resources.

6.10 Learning in a Digital World (PDF | eBook) – This is the research report that was used for the slides in Module 3: Digital Learning. This fully annotated report includes topics such as: benefits and challenges of digital learning; finding, accessing and using digital learning resources; technologies for communication and interactions; tools to assist and manage learning; and associated risks and dangers.

Module 7: Evaluation and References

7.1 Final Course Exam – A final exam on the contents of this course, including the videos (60 random questions from 144 with Certificate). IMPORTANT: To obtain a Certificate, you must be connected to the Internet. Do NOT use the iSpring App as it does not always fill in the certificate properly.

7.2 Nootropic Watchdog: 15 Study Hacks to Improve your Memory – This article was the inspiration and source for the content presented in Module 4. Permission was obtained to use the information from this article in our course.

7.3 Learning in a Digital World references – This is a list of the sources used in compiling this Research Report. The information in this Report was the basis for the content presented in Modules 3 and 5 (interactive PDF).

Technology Notes

The Final Exam and quizzes can be completed on regular browsers, computer tablets and smart phones.

The presentations, podcasts and knowledge checkups can be played on regular browsers, tablets and mobile phones. 

To view and download the PDF/PRINT documents requires Adobe Acrobat Reader.

If you are using these quizzes or final exams for class assignments or continuing education credits, and want a copy of the Results and Certificate sent to you, enter your name and e-mail when requested. Otherwise, use "Guest" and proceed with the quiz or exam.

Welcome to the Learning Nurse e-Learning Center. We have developed several different types of web-based learning modules that we present here. We will continue developing additional modules as time and resources permit. 

This e-Learning Center has several sections. First, a section for eCourses. Currently, we have courses on documentation, professional development, LPN Code of ethics, and pressure ulcers. We also have some micro learning nuggets on how to prevent common nursing mistakes. Please click on the appropriate item below to access the relevant page of information.

• Learning to Learn eCourse
• LPN Code of Ethics Learning Module
• Pressure Ulcers eCourse
• Micro Learning Nuggets

We welcome your feedback and suggestions for additional learning modules. Tell us what you like, don't like and any additional features you would like to see!

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Benefits of e-Learning

e-Learning has several benefits over traditional classroom training. These include:

1. Cost and time savings. You do not having to travel and spend time away from work.

2. Learning can be done from any location and at any time. This just-in-time benefit makes learning possible for people who never would have been able to work it into their schedules.

3. Learning is self paced. You learn when you want to ... and as fast as you want to! e-Learning is modularized so that you can go through the smaller chucks of training as needed, and absorb it for a while before moving on.

4. You learn faster. Research has shown that e-learning courses progress 50% faster than traditional courses. This is partly because the individualized approach allows you to skip material you already know and understand, and move onto the topics that you really need to learn.

5. Increased retention and a stronger grasp of the subject. This is because of the many elements that are used in e-learning to reinforce the message. Good e-learning modules include audio, interactions, quizzes and other aids to learning. Also, you have the ability to pause or replay sections of the training that may not have been clear the first time around. Try that in a crowded classroom!

Despite our increased knowledge and efforts, pressure ulcers remain a major health care issue worldwide. A pressure ulcer is defined as a skin lesion caused by unrelieved pressure resulting in damage to the underlying tissue. Pressure ulcers are also known as bedsores, pressure sores and decubitus ulcers.

Pressure ulcers affect mobility, nutritional intake, elimination and the psychological well-being of patients and residents. They represent a major health threat to older patients and residents and to those with restricted mobility or a chronic disease.

The purpose of the eCourse is to provide nurses and other health professionals with the motivation, knowledge and skills to assess, prevent and treat pressure ulcers. The overall goal is to reduce the incidence and prevalence of pressure ulcers, especially in patients and residents under care.

The Pressure Ulcers eCourse consists of six modules. The learning activities include narrated video presentations, podcasts, unit quizzes, learning games / simulations, handouts, links to other resources and a choice of final examinations.

To access a learning activity, simply click on the Link. Once you have completed an activity, return to this page to go to the next activity. We strongly recommend that the activities be done in the order shown; however, you are free to select your own learning paths.

Module 1. Course Introduction and Overview

1.1 Course Introduction

1.1.1  Video presentation – narrated with notes (10 slides)

1.1.2  Podcast – to listen, click the player icon below; or download the podcast by clicking on the green down arrow on the player (10.8 MB)

1.1.3  Handout – a print version that includes the slides and the narration script.

1.2  Navigation tutorial – a one minute tour of the video player and its controls.

Module 2. About Pressure Ulcers

2.1 Definition and Causes of Pressure Ulcers

2.1.1  Video presentation – narrated with notes (14 slides)

2.1.2  Podcast – to listen, click the player icon below; or download the podcast by clicking on the green down arrow on the player (7.47 MB)

2.1.3  Handout – a print version that includes the slides and the narration script.

 

2.2 Pressure Ulcer Classifications and Stages

2.2.1  Video presentation – narrated with notes (21 slides)

2.2.2  Podcast – to listen, click the player icon below; or download the podcast by clicking on the green down arrow on the player (11.09 MB)

2.2.3  Handout – a print version that includes the slides and the narration script.

 

2.3 Risk Factors and Implications

2.3.1  Video presentation – narrated with notes (30 slides)

2.3.2  Podcast – to listen, click the player icon below; or download the podcast by clicking on the green down arrow on the player (26.61 MB)

2.3.3  Handout – a print version that includes the slides and the narration script.

 

2.4 Module 2 Exercises 

2.4.1  Knowledge Checkup – for Module 2 (20 open-ended questions)

2.4.2  Knowledge Checkup – for Module 2 (pdf version)

2.4.3  Terminology Game – 15 multiple choice random questions from a pool of 35

2.4.4  Terminology Game – 10 word-guess random questions from a pool of 25

2.4.5  Pressure Ulcers Images Review I – random images of pressure ulcers to help you identity location and stages

2.4.6  Online Quiz – 25 questions randomly selected from a pool of 102 items

2.4.7  Print Quiz I – 33 questions with answers at the end (pdf format)

2.4.8  Print Quiz II – 33 different questions with answers at the end.

Module 3. Assessment of Pressure Ulcers

3.1 Risk Assessment of Pressure Ulcers 

3.1.1  Video presentation – narrated with notes (30 slides)

3.1.2  Podcast – to listen, click the player icon below; or download the podcast by clicking on the green down arrow on the player (14.42 MB)

3.1.3  Handout – a print version that includes the slides and the narration script.

 
3.2 Risk Assessment Tools for Pressure Ulcers

3.2.1  Video presentation – narrated with notes (14 slides)

3.2.2  Podcast – to listen, click the player icon below; or download the podcast by clicking on the green down arrow on the player (9.43 MB)

3.2.3  Handout – a print version that includes the slides and the narration script.

3.3 Module 3 Exercises

3.3.1  Knowledge Checkup – for Module 3 (16 open-ended questions)

3.3.2  Knowledge Checkup – for Module 3 (pdf version)

3.3.3  Terminology Game – 10 word-guess random questions from a different pool of 28 terms

3.3.4  Definitions Game – a drag & drop definitions game on terms in this module (15 questions from 30 items)

3.3.5  Pressure Ulcers Images Review II– more images of pressure ulcers for self assessment of location and stages

3.3.6  Online Quiz – 25 questions randomly selected from a pool of 76 items

3.3.7  Print Quiz I – 38 questions with answers at the end (pdf format)

3.3.8  Print Quiz II – 38 questions with answers at the end.

 
Module 4. Prevention of Pressure Ulcers

4.1 Prevention Strategies for Pressure Ulcers

4.1.1  Video presentation – narrated with notes (24 slides)

4.1.2  Podcast – to listen, click the player icon below; or download the podcast by clicking on the green down arrow on the player (12.95 MB)

4.1.3  Handout – a print version that includes the slides and the narration script.

4.2 Module 4 Exercises

4.2.1  Knowledge Checkup – for Module 4 (12 open-ended questions)

4.2.2  Knowledge Checkup – for Module 4 (pdf version)

4.2.3  Definitions Game – a drag & drop definitions game on terms in this module (11 questions)

4.2.4  Terminology Game III – another 10 word-guess random questions from a different pool of 28 terms 

4.2.5  Online Quiz – 25 questions randomly selected from a pool of 46 items

4.2.6  Print Quiz I – 23 questions with answers at the end (pdf format)

4.2.7  Print Quiz II – 23 questions with answers at the end.

Module 5. Treatment of Pressure Ulcers

5.1 Overview of Treatment Strategies

5.1.1  Video presentation – narrated with notes (21 slides)

5.1.2  Podcast – to listen, click the player icon below; or download the podcast by clicking on the green down arrow on the player (10.57 MB)

5.1.3  Handout – a print version that includes the slides and the narration script.

5.1.4  Knowledge Checkup – for Module 5.1 (8 open-ended questions)

5.1.5  Knowledge Checkup – for Module 5.1 (pdf version)

5.1.6  Definitions Game – a drag & drop definitions game on terms in this module (14 questions)

5.1.7  Online Quiz – 25 questions randomly presented

5.1.8  Print Quiz I – 25 questions with answers at the end (pdf format)

5.2 Repositioning and Support Surfaces

5.2.1  Video presentation – narrated with notes (25 slides)

5.2.2  Podcast – to listen, click the player icon below; or download the podcast by clicking on the green down arrow on the player (14.55 MB)

5.2.3  Handout – a print version that includes the slides and the narration script.

5.2.4  Knowledge Checkup – for Module 5.2 (10 open-ended questions)

5.2.5  Knowledge Checkup – for Module 5.2 (pdf version)

5.2.6  Definitions Game – a drag & drop definitions game on terms in this module (12 questions)

5.2.7  Online Quiz – 25 questions randomly selected from a pool of 42 items

5.2.8  Print Quiz I – 21 questions with answers at the end (pdf format)

5.2.9  Print Quiz II – 21 questions with answers at the end.

5.3 Cleansing and Debridement

5.3.1  Video presentation – narrated with notes (17 slides)

5.3.2  Podcast – to listen, click the player icon below; or download the podcast by clicking on the green down arrow on the player (10.37 MB)

5.3.3  Handout – a print version that includes the slides and the narration script.

5.3.4  Knowledge Checkup – for Module 5.3 (10 open-ended questions)

5.3.5  Knowledge Checkup – for Module 5.3 (pdf version)

5.3.6  Definitions Game – a drag & drop definitions game on terms in this module (20 questions)

5.3.7  Online Quiz – 25 questions randomly selected from a pool of 40 items

5.3.8  Print Quiz I – 20 questions with answers at the end (pdf format)

5.3.9  Print Quiz II – 20 questions with answers at the end.

5.4 Dressings for Pressure Ulcer Wounds

5.4.1  Video presentation – narrated with notes (27 slides)

5.4.2  Podcast – to listen, click the player icon below; or download the podcast by clicking on the green down arrow on the player (11.17 MB)

5.4.3  Handout – a print version that includes the slides and the narration script.

5.4.4  Terminology Game IV – another 10 word-guess random questions from a different pool of 28 terms

5.4.5  Knowledge Checkup – for Module 5.4 (15 open-ended questions)

5.4.6  Knowledge Checkup – for Module 5.4 (pdf version)

5.4.7  Definitions Game – a drag & drop definitions game on terms in this module (17 questions)

5.4.8  Online Quiz – 25 questions randomly selected from a pool of 42 items

5.4.9  Print Quiz I – 21 questions with answers at the end (pdf format)

5.4.10  Print Quiz II – 21 questions with answers at the end.

5.5 Nutrition and Treatment

5.5.1  Video presentation – narrated with notes (26 slides)

5.5.2  Podcast – to listen, click the player icon below; or download the podcast by clicking on the green down arrow on the player (16.00 MB)

5.5.3  Handout – a print version that includes the slides and the narration script.

5.5.4  Knowledge Checkup – for Module 5.5 (10 open-ended questions)

5.5.5  Knowledge Checkup – for Module 5.5 (pdf version)

5.5.6  Definitions Game – a drag & drop definitions game on terms in this module (17 questions)

5.5.7  Online Quiz – 25 questions randomly selected from a pool of 42 items

5.5.8  Print Quiz I – 21 questions with answers at the end (pdf format)

5.5.9  Print Quiz II – 21 questions with answers at the end.

5.6 Pressure Ulcer Infections

5.6.1  Video presentation – narrated with notes (24 slides)

5.6.2  Podcast – to listen, click the player icon below; or download the podcast by clicking on the green down arrow on the player (12.71 MB)

5.6.3  Handout – a print version that includes the slides and the narration script.

5.6.4  Knowledge Checkup – for Module 5.6 (15 open-ended questions)

5.6.5  Knowledge Checkup – for Module 5.6 (pdf version)

5.6.6  Definitions Game – a drag & drop definitions game on terms in this module (15 questions from 30 items)

5.6.7  Online Quiz – 25 questions randomly selected from a pool of 40 items

5.6.8  Print Quiz I – 20 questions with answers at the end (pdf format)

5.6.9  Print Quiz II – 20 questions with answers at the end.

5.7 Pain Management

5.7.1  Video presentation – narrated with notes (12 slides)

5.7.2  Podcast – to listen, click the player icon below; or download the podcast by clicking on the green down arrow on the player (6.67 MB)

5.7.3  Handout – a print version that includes the slides and the narration script.

5.7.4  Knowledge Checkup – for Module 5.7 (6 open-ended questions)

5.7.5  Knowledge Checkup – for Module 5.7 (pdf version)

5.7.6  Online Quiz – 15 questions randomly presented

5.7.7  Print Quiz I – 15 questions with answers at the end (pdf format).

5.8 Surgery and Pressure Ulcers

5.8.1  Video presentation – narrated with notes (18 slides)

5.8.2  Podcast – to listen, click the player icon below; or download the podcast by clicking on the green down arrow on the player (9.63 MB)

5.8.3  Handout – a print version that includes the slides and the narration script.

5.8.4  Knowledge Checkup – for Module 5.8 (8 open-ended questions)

5.8.5  Knowledge Checkup – for Module 5.8 (pdf version)

5.8.6  Definitions Game – a drag & drop definitions game on terms in this module (14 questions)

5.8.7  Online Quiz – 17 questions randomly presented

5.8.8  Print Quiz I – 17 questions with answers at the end (pdf format).

 
Module 6. Other Sources and Resources

6.1  Terminology Game V – another 10 word-guess random questions from a different pool of 28 terms

6.2  Knowledge Checkup – for entire course (25 open-ended questions)

6.3  Knowledge Checkup – for entire course (pdf version)

6.4  Glossary of Pressure Ulcer Terms – medical terms used in this course (pdf format)

6.5  Final Course Examination I – 75 questions from a pool of 324 items (with Certificate*)

6.6  Final Course Examination II – 100 questions from a pool of 324 items (with Certificate*)

6.7  References and Credits

Technology Notes

The Final Exams can be completed on regular browsers, tablets and smart phones. *To obtain a Certificate, you must be connected to the Internet, and cookies must be enabled in your browser. Otherwise the exam results cannot be sent to the Certificate script.

The presentations, podcasts and module quizzes can be played on regular browsers, tablets and mobile phones. For best viewing on Apple's devices, download and install the FREE Articulate Player App from the iTunes Store. If you are using an Android device, download and install the FREE Android Player App from Google Play. With these apps, all components can be downloaded to your mobile device for off-line use.

To view and download the PDF/PRINT documents requires Adobe Acrobat Reader.

If you are using these quizzes or final exams for class assignments or continuing education credits, and want a copy of the Results for your records, enter your name when requested. Otherwise, use "Guest" and proceed with the quiz or exam.

Welcome to Micro Learning Nuggets. In this section, we look at some of the common mistakes / errors made by nurses and offer suggestions on how to avoid / prevent them. Each learning nugget consists of:

• Problem: identification and brief description of the nursing error / mistake
• Consequence: what may happen as a result of this error / mistake
• Solution: suggestions on what to do to prevent this nursing mistake from happening.

 

Click on the title to view and/or download the Micro Learning Nugget (PDF format).