In November 2020, the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC) launched a GPAL pilot program to improve staff training and knowledge retention.
The NICU provides specialized care for premature infants and newborns with complications, requiring a high level of medical expertise and familiarity with complex medical equipment. This creates an ongoing learning challenge for employees, who must continually update their skills and knowledge.
“For us, GPAL’s main role is performance support. Whether it’s operating complex equipment or handling critical situations, short video instructions provide nurses with the exact information they need at the moment they need it. This significantly boosts confidence in performing tasks.”
– Lisette, NICU Nurse and Expert in Training & Equipment
To support this continuous learning, the NICU implemented GPAL’s video-based training approach, allowing staff to access concise, instructional videos on demand. These videos serve as immediate performance aids, helping nurses execute tasks with confidence and precision.
The NICU rapidly embraced video-based learning, with various teams producing instructional videos on essential medical procedures, from defibrillator use to performing ECGs. To ensure high-quality content, Lisette and two nursing colleagues dedicate one day per month to recording training videos. Each team member plays a role: one reads the instructions, another demonstrates the procedure, and the third films.
“We follow official protocols step by step. By assigning roles—one person reading, another performing, and the third recording—we ensure accuracy and clarity.”
– Lisette, NICU Nurse and Expert in Training & Equipment
A great example of the value of instructional videos is the transport incubator. The NICU has two types of transport incubators, one of which is rarely used, making it challenging for staff to maintain familiarity.
“There are detailed written protocols for the incubator, but some steps are hard to describe in text. A video with visual guidance makes everything much clearer. With GPAL, we captured this knowledge in bite-sized videos, allowing staff to quickly review specific steps.”
– Lisette, NICU Nurse and Expert in Training & Equipment
Another great example is the thoracic drainage, a procedure for treating collapsed lungs. Nurses learn this procedure during training and refresh their knowledge through annual e-learning and practical exams. However, because the procedure is rarely performed, key steps can be forgotten — especially for part-time staff. A short instructional video enables quick knowledge refreshment before performing the procedure.
The NICU collaborates with other departments, such as the Leiden Birth Center (GHL), – which also uses GPAL – to increase knowledge sharing and collaboration. During COVID-19, video instructions played a crucial role in quickly disseminating new procedures and standardizing protocols. GHL’s instructional videos were made accessible to NICU staff and vice versa, fostering cross-departmental learning.
“All COVID-related procedural changes were discussed, recorded, and shared. GHL primarily focused on maternal care, while we produced neonatal care videos. This collaboration increased efficiency, aligned protocols and reduced uncertainties — because everything had to be recorded accurately.”
– Lisette, NICU Nurse and Expert in Training & Equipment
A few months after launching the pilot, the NICU conducted a survey to assess GPAL’s impact. Nurses highlighted the ease of accessing relevant information and the convenience of short videos while working.
“The survey results were overwhelmingly positive. Nurses and doctors truly appreciate the videos.”
– Lisette, NICU Nurse and Expert in Training & Equipment
Previously, training relied on e-learning modules, theoretical assessments, and practical exams. However, staff often faced a gap between learning and application. “We wanted to do things differently, with training available when it’s actually needed,” Lisette explains. “We wanted more variety and training that happens when it’s actually needed.”
“E-learning provides foundational knowledge, but in urgent situations — like when a newborn requires immediate care – quick access videos are far more effective.”
– Lisette, NICU Nurse and Expert in Training & Equipment
Watching a video is also more engaging than reading lengthy e-learning content. Staff can revisit videos as often as needed, making learning more flexible and practical.
One significant benefit of video-based training is standardization across departments.
“What I love about GPAL is that it ensures cross-departmental consistency. Everyone receives the same instructions. For example, during COVID-19, videos demonstrated the correct donning and doffing of protective gear. Standardization is a challenge in any large organisation, but video makes it achievable and easily revisitable.” – Lisette, NICU Nurse and Expert in Training & Equipment
– Lisette, NICU Nurse and Expert in Training & Equipment
Previously, training was often conducted one-on-one, leading to variations in teaching styles. Videos, however, ensure consistency by following strict protocols. If a video is unclear, it is simply re-recorded until it meets quality standards.
Beyond enhancing clarity, video-based training increases staff confidence. Some nurses even watch videos at home to prepare for upcoming shifts.
“You could read a 20-page protocol, but after two pages, you’d likely lose track. We’ve transformed key procedures into short instructional videos, especially for less frequently performed tasks.”
– Lisette, NICU Nurse and Expert in Training & Equipment
By embracing GPAL, the NICU at LUMC has created a more efficient, accessible, and engaging learning environment, empowering its staff to deliver the highest level of care to their patients.