Evaluating Surgical Nurses’ Disaster Readiness and Knowledge Levels in Anticipation of a Potential Earthquake in Istanbul

Abstract

This study was conducted to examine the knowledge levels and preparedness of nurses. Earthquakes are among the most significant natural disasters in our country. Nurses make up the majority of the healthcare team, and therefore, they have important duties and responsibilities during earthquakes. This research was conducted with 201 nurses working in the surgical wards and operating rooms of a training and research hospital in Istanbul. It is a descriptive and complementary study. The data collection tools used were the Employee Information Form and the Nurses' Perception of Disaster Preparedness Scale. According to the results of the study, 58.2% of the participating nurses had previous earthquake experience, and 53.7% stated that they felt partially prepared for an earthquake, while 80.1% believed that the city of Istanbul is not prepared at all for a potential earthquake. A significant difference was found between the nurses’ perception of Istanbul’s preparedness for an earthquake and the “Pre-Disaster Preparedness Phase.” However, no significant difference was found between the overall scale scores and its sub-dimensions regarding the “Response Phase” and “Post-Disaster Phase.” These findings indicate that Istanbul is not adequately prepared for an earthquake. In this regard, implementing regular disaster training programs and encouraging nurses’ participation will increase awareness and preparedness in advance of a possible Istanbul earthquake.