New HPV online learning module released

The new HPV online learning module has been well received.
The new HPV online learning module has been well received.
The National Cervical Screening Programme (NCSP) has released a new, free online learning module on the human papillomavirus (HPV) on the Ministry of Health’s Learn Online website.

The training is aimed at cervical smear takers in primary care, and focuses on the use of HPV testing in the NCSP.  It also includes information on HPV immunisation for girls.

The module follows four women with different HPV experiences. Participants learn more about the women and HPV as they progress through the module.

NCSP senior portfolio manager Deborah Mills says the module is part of the programme’s ongoing focus on service development and quality improvement.

‘We provide health professionals with information and support so they can inform their patients about HPV and how HPV testing is used in the NCSP.

‘We'd love to hear feedback from smear takers using the module and any other online learning modules and requirements, so we can be sure we’re delivering the most useful tools to the sector,’ says Deborah. ‘We’d also like to thank those who have helped with the module’s development. Their support is very much appreciated.’

One of those who reviewed the module before it was released is Amy Curry, a clinical training and development nurse educator with Family Planning. She says the new module is a great resource.

‘It’s easy for nurses to access and easy for them to follow. It’s culturally appropriate and uses different teaching techniques, such as multiple choice questions, so people aren’t just reading information online.’

Amy says while there’s still a place for classroom teaching, especially for practical exercises, a lot of nurses’ learning is moving to an online environment where they can extend their professional development at a time that suits them.

She says the module will be used on Family Planning’s three-day smear takers training course and also on the update courses that it is recommended smear taker nurses have every two years.

‘HPV is a big part of that so we’re excited to be able to use the module as part of our training. It’s great that it’s free too because most other online courses cost money.’

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Page last updated: 25 February 2015