Nurse`s Preparedness in Disaster Response: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Nurses play a pivotal role in disaster management. Therefore, it is essential that nurses maintain a high level of preparedness and possess the necessary skills to participate effectively in all phases of disaster management. Aim: This study was aimed to assess the levels of preparedness among nurses in disaster response. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 335 nurses working in three government hospitals and six primary health care centers in Al-Najaf city by using Convenience sampling. Furthermore, the data were collected using a self- report questionnaire included socio-demographic characteristic of participants and the Disaster Preparedness Evaluation Tool (DPET). the study continued from 14 October 2025 to 10 April 2026.Result: The current study results indicate the overall assessment of the nurses' level of preparedness about disaster response was moderate (57.01%). With respect to the relationship of participants’ socio-demographic data with their preparedness levels the study revealed the existence of a statistically significant relationship between nurse`s preparedness level with all socio-demographic characteristics except current place of work.  Conclusion: that the nurses were moderately prepared for disasters response. Reflecting the need to support this vital staff. Therefore, the study recommends providing disaster education and training as part of continuing education for all health workers, especially nurses and giving priority to promote a culture that reinforces the crucial role of nurses in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.