Chen Y, Kunst E, Nasrawi D, Massey D, Johnston ANB, Keller K, Fengzhi Lin F. Nurses' competency in electrocardiogram interpretation in acute care settings: A systematic review.
J Adv Nurs 2022;
78:1245-1266. [PMID:
34989423 DOI:
10.1111/jan.15147]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
AIMS
Identify and synthesize evidence of nurses' competency in electrocardiogram interpretation in acute care settings.
DESIGN
Systematic mixed studies review.
DATA SOURCES
Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Medline, Scopus and Cochrane were searched in April 2021.
REVIEW METHODS
Data were selected using the updated Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis framework. A data-based convergent synthesis design using qualitative content analysis was adopted. Quality appraisal was undertaken using validated tools appropriate to study designs of the included papers.
RESULTS
Forty-three papers were included in this review. Skills and attitudes were not commonly assessed, as most studies referred to 'competency' in the context of nurses' knowledge in electrocardiogram interpretation. Nurses' knowledge levels in this important nursing role varied notably, which could be partly due to a range of assessment tools being used. Several factors were found to influence nurses' competency in electrocardiogram interpretation across the included studies from individual, professional and organizational perspectives.
CONCLUSION
The definition of 'competency' was inconsistent, and nurses' competency in electrocardiogram interpretation varied from low to high. Nurses identified a lack of regular training and insufficient exposure in electrocardiogram interpretation. Hence, regular, standard training and education are recommended. Also, more research is needed to develop a standardized and comprehensive electrocardiogram interpretation tool, thereby allowing educators to safely assess nurses' competency.
IMPACT
This review addressed questions related to nurses' competency in electrocardiogram interpretation. The findings highlight varying competency levels and assessment methods. Nurses reported a lack of knowledge and confidence in interpreting electrocardiograms. There is an urgent need to explore opportunities to promote and maintain nurses' competency in electrocardiogram interpretation.
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