Discussion Question:
Identify your own level of preparedness should disaster strike in your area. Visit the Red Cross site found in Additional Resources to review details on disaster preparedness kit, plan, and information. Discuss your response to this information. Were you surprised at your level of readiness? What steps will you take to prepare yourself and your family for the possibility of disaster? How can you share this information with your community?
OVER VIEW: Disasters occur every day. The community health nurse has a significant role in preparedness, response, and recovery when disaster strikes locally. An effective response to disaster demands the community health nurse develop specific competencies. These include understanding the role, recognition of disaster-related health conditions, infection control post-disaster, disease reporting, public education, and stress management in the affected community.
MODULE GOALS:
• Describe the elements of disaster
• Identify interventions related to each stage of a disaster: preparedness, response, and recovery
• Discuss the component elements of an effective disaster response plan and the role of the community health nurse related to disaster situations.
• Identify potential biological effects of a disaster
Learning Materials
Required Resources:
Clark, M. J. (2015). Population and community health nursing (6th ed.). Pearson. ISBN: 9780133846584. Read chapter 25.
Additional Resources:
American Red Cross. (2020). How to prepare for emergencies. https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies.html
