Introduction:
The COVID-19 pandemic transformed healthcare delivery and disrupted traditional models of clinical education. Amid high staff turnover and limited access to in-person training, we identified an urgent need to create a sustainable, flexible, and engaging stroke education program. This initiative aimed to improve staff knowledge, confidence, and clinical performance in stroke care through a hybrid education model.
Methods:
We evaluated our previous education model using reflective practice and a pre-education survey targeting junior nursing staff. The survey highlighted reduced satisfaction, poor engagement, and requests for more interactive and case-based learning. In response, a six-week hybrid stroke course was developed covering core topics such as brain anatomy, stroke syndromes, cardiac monitoring, and reperfusion therapy. Sessions were recorded with voiceovers to ensure accessibility. After course completion, staff were rostered to the stroke unit and paired with experienced clinicians for guided learning. Scenario-based teaching using real patient cases was embedded to reinforce clinical concepts and enhance critical thinking.
Results:
Post-course surveys demonstrated improved staff confidence, deeper understanding of stroke syndromes, and greater awareness of tailored care approaches. Nurses reported feeling more empowered to educate patients and families. Data extracted from our REDCap database and KPI benchmarking showed improvements in metrics including DNT, stroke unit access, timely AH interventions, Stroke secondary prevention, lifestyle education and compliance with stroke-specific tools such as ASSIST and mood screening protocols.
Conclusion:
Transitioning to a hybrid, scenario-based stroke education model resulted in higher staff satisfaction, improved knowledge retention, and measurable improvements in patient care outcomes. Integrating real patient experiences into post-course learning helped bridge the theory-practice gap, particularly for junior nurses.
Relevance to Clinical Practice or Patient Experience:
This innovative education approach boosts clinical competence and care quality, leading to better patient experiences. It empowers nurses with accessible, relevant training to deliver confident, person-centered stroke care