Citation

Al Khalaileh MAA, Bond E, Alasad JA. Int. Emerg. Nurs. 2012; 20(1): 14-23.

Affiliation

Adult Health Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Al al-Bayt University, Mafraq, Jordan.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2012, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.ienj.2011.01.001

PMID

22243713

Abstract

AIM: To assess Jordanian RNs' perceptions regarding their knowledge, skills, and preparedness for disaster management. BACKGROUND: Current disaster knowledge, skills, and preparedness levels need to be evaluated to guide plans for effective educational programs. There is also a need to know where RNs received their knowledge, skills, and preparation, to enhance or improve future educational opportunities. METHODS: Cross-sectional survey where the Disaster Preparedness Evaluation Tool (DPET®) was distributed to Jordanian RNs who work in three randomly selected Ministry of Health hospitals and two university hospitals. RESULTS: Four hundred and seventy-four participants completed the survey. Sixty-five per cent of respondents described their current disaster preparedness as weak: 18% medium: 12% good; and 5% felt their preparation was very good. Thirty-one per cent received disaster education in undergraduate programs; 8% in graduate nursing programs; 31% in facility drills, and 22% in continuing education courses. Eleven per cent had participated in a real disaster. Four hundred and thirty RNs wanted to learn more about RNs role in disasters, including knowledge and skills. CONCLUSION: Knowledge,skills, and disaster preparedness need continual reinforcement to improve self efficacy for disaster management. RECOMMENDATIONS: There is a need for a consistent national nursing curriculum for disaster preparedness and nationwide drills to increase disaster knowledge, skills, preparedness, and confidence.

Language: en