Implementation Strategy for a Mandatory Interprofessional Training Program Using an Instructional Design Model

This concept paper outlines an implementation strategy for a mandatory training program using the ADDIE instructional design model for delivery to nurses and other health professionals in an interprofessional training environment. Background: Competence in Basic Life Support (BLS) is a lifesaving requirement for health professionals in clinical settings to optimize patient outcomes. It is essential that health professionals are supported in attending mandatory training, including BLS. To inform learning and teaching strategies, it is useful to apply theoretical perspectives to the development of mandatory staff training methods. Workload and other clinical pressures often take precedence over education and training, leaving clinical staff struggling to attend mandatory training and professional development opportunities. Healthcare organisations must ensure that staff attend mandatory training and are competent in BLS to meet accreditation standards and to promote patient safety. Method: A theory-based implementation strategy is outlined for a mandatory interprofessional training program including BLS, using the ADDIE model to enhance patient outcomes. ADDIE is an instructional design framework comprising five elements: Assess, Design, Develop, Implement and Evaluate; describing a learning methodology that can be readily applied to mandatory training in a healthcare environment. Through its iterative capability, the ADDIE model promotes rapid acquisition of clinical skills that can reduce time spent when attending mandatory BLS training. The strategy equips educators with teaching skills based on a robust theoretical model, promoting nursing and health professional attendance for mandatory training. Conclusion: Mandatory health professional training founded on theory, framed by the ADDIE model is an effective and engaging approach to BLS training and education.