Enhancing preparedness: Assessing the impact of an online Training of Trainers program for nurses in Indian COVID-19 hospitals.

Abstract

Background: Several studies have shown that frontline health-care personnel have experienced overwhelming stress and mental health problems since the outbreak of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. To address the psychological impact of the COVID-19 crisis on nurses working in COVID-19 hospitals across India, a series of Training of Trainers (ToT) programs were conducted. This study examined the effectiveness of these programs in reducing stress and improving coping self-efficacy of nurses.

Aim: To examine the effectiveness of online Training of Trainers Program for Nurses working in Covid-19 Hospitals in India.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional survey with a convenient sampling method was adopted. The tools consisted of Knowledge, Practice, and Attitude Survey Schedule; Perceived Stress Scale; and Coping Self-Efficacy Scale. A total of 89 participants in the ToT group and 31 participants in the control group, working in COVID-19 hospitals across India, participated in the study. Data were collected through an online google survey. The study sample was sent the survey link through email and WhatsApp messages. Frequencies, means, standard deviations, and Chi squares were calculated to analyze sociodemographic variables. Pearson correlation coefficient and Student's t-test were used for analysis.

Results: There was a significant difference between the two groups, with the ToT group scoring higher on knowledge, practice, coping self-efficacy, and positive attitude and lower on perceived stress than the control group.

Conclusion: Our findings indicate support for the online mode of training programs for health care professionals, particularly significant in crisis situations.