Comparison of time-segmented goal-directed teaching vs. traditional teaching for PICC among specialist nurse training: a randomized controlled trial

Introduction: This randomized controlled trial compared the efficacy of Time-Segmented Goal-Directed Teaching (TSGDT) vs. Traditional Teaching (TT) in enhancing Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC) skills among specialist nurse trainees. Methods: = 52). TSGDT group segmented PICC operation into three temporally defined phases (pre-operative preparation, operational phase, and post procedure management & holistic care), each with explicit performance criteria and time-bound practice. TT delivered sequential didactic instruction of the entire procedure. Both groups received 4 hours of training. Primary outcome was Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) performance of PICC. Secondary outcomes included knowledge assessment, willingness, perceived confidence, and training satisfaction. Outcomes were measured immediately post-intervention and at 4-week follow-up. Results: = 0.027) compared to their TT counterparts. Conclusion: The Time-Segmented Goal-Directed Teaching method is a highly effective instructional strategy that significantly enhances PICC procedural competence, procedural confidence, and learning satisfaction among specialist nurse trainees, with superior skill retention at 4 weeks, which offering a superior alternative to traditional teaching for clinical skill acquisition.