Emergency Preparedness Competencies Among Nurses: Implications for Nurse Administrators.

OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to examine current levels of self-reported professional emergency preparedness competence among nurses. In addition, relationships between nurse professional emergency preparedness competence, personal preparation for a disaster, and perceived likelihood of reporting to work after a disaster are examined. BACKGROUND Evidence suggests wide gaps in nurses' familiarity with the dimensions of professional emergency preparedness competence and their likelihood to report, potentially impacting human life after a disaster. METHODS An exploratory, cross-sectional survey design was used with a sample of 186 RNs and licensed practical nurses. RESULTS Results indicate significant weaknesses in nurses' professional emergency preparedness competence. There are positive correlations between likelihood to report, personal preparedness, and professional emergency preparedness competence. CONCLUSIONS Nurses across the United States lack sufficient competence in professional emergency preparedness. Results demonstrate the need to improve the education of nurses to meet the demands of populations in urgent situations. Action items nurse administrators can take are provided.