Implementing interactive technology to teach electrocardiographic interpretation online

Nurses need to accurately interpret electrocardiography (ECG) in order to intervene appropriately and quickly. Unfortunately, nurses struggle with ECG interpretation. One reason for poor ECG interpretation is the lack of kinesthetic pedagogy on properly measuring ECG intervals and durations. Proper measurement of ECG intervals and durations can help nurses accurately interpret the ECG. This manuscript describes the use of interactive technology to develop the skills for measuring ECG intervals and durations for ECG interpretation in an online ECG course. Using constructivist theory, faculty implemented interactive technology (e.g. tablet and E-Pencil) to enable students to measure ECG intervals and durations. Students utilized a checklist to systematically analyze the ECG. The accuracy of ECG interpretation, student satisfaction, and student confidence were assessed at mid-term and final assessments. Accuracy of ECG interpretation increased among students who engaged with the interactive technology. Students reported satisfaction or high satisfaction with the overall course as well as with the interactive technology. Many students faced technical challenges which is an area of improvement. Despite technical challenges, integration of interactive technology into an online ECG course resulted in greater accuracy of ECG interpretation, high satisfaction, and improved confidence.