EDUCATION AND TRAINING NEEDS OF NURSES RELATED TO DISASTER PREPARATION AT TWO TERTIARY CARE HOSPITALS IN LAHORE

Abstract

Background: Extensive disasters around the globe are posing threats to human health and life. The World Health Organization has called for detailed disaster plans in every country in order to be prepared for disasters that may arise. Nurses are the highest number of healthcare providers; they have the responsibility to be the first line of response in the event disaster. Enhancing nurses' professional capability and competency through training and education will ensure the provision of adequate healthcare services in disasters. Objective: to explore nurses' education and training needs in preparation for disasters. Study Design: A descriptive survey design was used to conduct this study. Study Setting: Shalamar Hospital & Sheikh Zyed Hospital Lahore. Methodology: A sample of 200 nurses were selected from different units of two local teaching hospitals of Lahore City by using the method of non-probability convenient sampling. Data was collected by a self administered questionnaire and was analyzed by SPSS version 20. A p-value of ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: According to the study findings, majority (91%) of nurses acknowledged that they were inadequately prepared for disasters but were aware of the need for disaster preparation. Disaster Training and education of nurses related to disaster was considered extremely important by 73% of nurses. Disaster specific courses were highlighted by 69% and disaster drills by 44% of the subjects as the useful tools for disaster Preparation. Conclusion: The study findings revealed that nurses in two tertiary care hospitals in Lahore are inadequately prepared for disasters but are aware of the need for disaster preparation. Nurses in Pakistan, should be equipped with proper knowledge and skills in order to respond efficiently during disasters.