Date of Submission

Fall 12-9-2024

Document Type

Manuscript

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Department

Nursing

First Advisor

Dr Jo Loomis, DNP, FNP-C, CHSE, CLC, ANLC, NCMP, CNL

Second Advisor

Dr Janice Mark DNP, FNP-BC

Abstract

Objectives: This integrated literature review aimed to identify and prioritize disaster management education content to equip undergraduate and graduate nursing students with the necessary knowledge and skills for competent disaster response.

Data sources and review method: A literature search was conducted across multiple databases, including Cochrane, CINAHL, PsycINFO, PubMed, Google Scholar, Fusion, and Scopus, using keywords such as disaster nursing, disaster preparedness, simulation, education, and mass casualty incidents. Filters restricted results to English-language studies from the past ten years within nursing education. Selected articles were reviewed and summarized to address the research question: What are the essential disaster preparedness competencies and instructional methods for nursing curricula?

Results and findings: The review identified a need for standardized competency frameworks across studies. To build disaster preparedness skills, all analyses were conducted by reputable national and international organizations and predominantly used experiential learning approaches. These included virtual and live low-to-high-fidelity simulations, interactive teaching methods, and real-world scenarios. Although program content and duration varied, findings revealed (1) demand for standardized competencies, (2) emphasis on interprofessional collaboration, and (3) integration of theoretical knowledge with practical application.

Discussion and conclusion: The studies collectively support including disaster preparedness education in nursing curricula, as they significantly enhance students’ competencies, confidence, and disaster response readiness. They recommend diverse teaching methods, such as high-fidelity simulations and interactive instruction, within standardized competency frameworks to foster experiential learning. Standardizing competencies and structured curriculum integration are crucial for consistent, high-quality training. Ongoing practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and continuous evaluation are advised to sustain these competencies, ultimately preparing nursing students for effective disaster response.

Included in

Nursing Commons

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