Effect of a Computer-Assisted Learning Module for Retraining of Blood Pressure Assessment: A Crossover Randomized Control Trial

Purpose: Research studies have shown that students over time across healthcare disciplines may be inconsistent with blood pressure (BP) measuring ability. This has led to a recommendation that BP measurement retraining should occur every 6 to 12 months. The purpose of this study is to determine if the use of a computer-assisted learning (CAL) module could be used as a retraining tool for physical therapy students to improve knowledge, confidence, and accuracy of BP measurements. Methods: This study consisted of a 16-week 2 × 2 randomized, double-blinded, crossover trial. A total of 41 students were recruited and included entry-level doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students who are currently in their first semester of a DPT program. Data collection occurred at 3 time points: initial (T0), midpoint (T1), and final (T2). Outcome assessments included: a knowledge quiz, confidence survey, and measurement accuracy using simulated manikins. Results: There were no statistically significant differences between groups for demographic factors or confidence survey items. There were no statistically significant differences within groups across all time points for total mean survey average and mean manikin score. The total mean quiz score at T1 had a statistically significant difference between groups ( P = .035). Conclusions: Results suggest that the use of a BP CAL module did not significantly improve knowledge, self-perceived confidence, or accuracy of BP measurements compared with those not receiving BP CAL module retraining. The BP CAL module may be better used as a complimentary option alongside in-person skill training. Clinicaltrials.gov Registration: NCT04976452.