The Effect of a WhatsApp Chatbot-Based Training Program on Infection Control Knowledge and Practices Among Hemodialysis Nurses: A Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND

Patients undergoing hemodialysis are highly susceptible to infection; however, evidence suggests variability in nurses' infection control competencies. Although digital learning tools are increasingly used in nursing, there have been few randomized controlled trials assessing WhatsApp chatbot-based infection control training for hemodialysis nurses. Thus, the purpose of this study was to assess the effect of a WhatsApp chatbot-based training program on nurses' knowledge and practices related to infection control in hemodialysis units.

METHODS

A cluster-randomized controlled trial was conducted from July to September 2024, involving 50 hemodialysis nurses recruited via convenience sampling from five hospitals in Jordan. Ten clusters, defined by hospital site and work shift, were randomly assigned using a computer-generated sequence prepared by an independent researcher to either an intervention group, which received the WhatsApp chatbot-based training program, or a control group. Guided by constructivist learning theory, the intervention facilitated active knowledge construction through an interactive, automated chatbot dialogue delivered over 4 weeks. Outcome measures were collected using a self-reporting questionnaire at baseline and 4 weeks after completion of the 5-day intervention.

RESULTS

Mixed-model repeated-measures ANOVA revealed that the intervention group showed statistically significant improvements in both knowledge (F (1, 48) = 19.34, p < 0.0001, η2 = 0.28) and practice (F (1, 48) = 14.52, p < 0.0001, η2 = 0.23), both indicating large effect sizes, compared with the control group.

CONCLUSION

The study results indicate that the WhatsApp chatbot-based training program is an effective e-learning approach that helped hemodialysis nurses develop their infection control knowledge and practice. The results suggest that WhatsApp chatbot-based education provides nurse managers with a flexible and scalable method to enhance infection control competencies and improve patient safety in hemodialysis units.