Disaster Preparedness: Keeping Nursing Staff and Students at the Ready.

ABSTRACT

Humanity is facing an increasing threat to life and property due to an increase in disasters. Disasters occur with little warning and can last for hours or months. Current literature reveals that most nurses are not prepared for a disaster in their community. Continual readiness requires the engagement of staff and nursing students in disaster plan development, review, and implementation. Development of educational training programs that are ongoing, easily accessible, engaging, and realistic is best for skills and competency acquisition. Technology, such as virtual simulation, shows great potential to prepare health care professionals and should be incorporated into disaster preparedness plans.