Developing capacities of professional nurses on disaster risk reduction and management in the Philippine Nurses Association
- Author:
Bettina D. Evio
;
Sheila R. Bonito
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- MeSH:
Disasters;
Education, Continuing;
Delivery of Health Care;
Capacity Building
- From:
Philippine Journal of Nursing
2017;87(2):16-25
- CountryPhilippines
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
In the years 2010-2015, the Philippines experienced a number of disasters, both
natural and man-made, that killed around 1,400 and affected more than 68M people.
These recent disasters highlight the need for all health workers, especially nurses to
be prepared to respond to possible consequences of all types of hazards interacting
with communities. Nurses who are at the forefront of health care services are counted
upon to plan for and respond to emergencies and provide substantial care to
individuals, families and communities. However, there is a need to review the
competencies that nurses should have in emergency and disaster management to be
able to carry out these roles and functions. This study describes the development of a
training program, which aims to build capacity of nurses to participate actively in
emergency preparedness, response and recovery efforts of hospitals and
communities. Participants included nurses from hospitals and the community, and
volunteer nurses. Their knowledge and skills related to disaster management were
measured before and after the training. Their involvement in disaster management
months after the training were recorded to demonstrate the impact of training on their
professional development and in helping communities during or after a disaster. This
study demonstrates how continuing education helps professionals become
significant in addressing the needs of the general public and in contributing to social
development.
- Full text:PJN 3.pdf
