ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Suturing is a crucial clinical skill for nurse practitioners (NPs), but the effectiveness of traditional training methods (e.g., physical suture kits combined with video content) is low. OBJECTIVE: This study compared the effectiveness and usability of a mobile-based web app (MoWa) developed for NPs to learn simple suturing skills with those of traditional instructional video-based training. METHODS: The MoWa system utilizes mobile devices to simulate hands-on suturing and provides learning guidance and feedback to support self-learning with a physical suturing kit. Fifty-four suturing novices (NPs) were recruited as participants, divided into an experimental group (EG: 28 participants) and a control group (CG: 26 participants), and instructed to self-learn for 3 weeks. Learning effectiveness and system usability were evaluated through a pretest and posttest. RESULTS: The EG exhibited significant improvements in learning outcomes, self-confidence, self-efficacy, and learning anxiety and expressed satisfaction with the MoWa system. Furthermore, the EG also considerably enhanced learning outcomes, self-efficacy, and learning anxiety compared to the CG, with no significant difference in self-confidence. CONCLUSION: The MoWa system combined with deliberate practice is an effective strategy for supporting suturing skills training.
