Implementing Disaster Simulations for Baccalaureate Nursing Students in the Gulf-Coast Region

Abstract Background Disasters occur frequently in the gulf-coast region of the United States. The purpose of this study was to develop, implement, and evaluate four gulf-coast area high-fidelity disaster simulations. Method A pre-test/post-test design was used. Four gulf-coast region high-fidelity patient simulation disaster scenarios were developed, implemented, and evaluated with junior and senior level nursing students in a baccalaureate program in southeastern United States. Results Three hundred and ninety-one students participated. Results indicated an increase in scores for every participant group in disaster knowledge. Differences in pre-post test scores were significant for three of four groups. Conclusions Participation in high-fidelity disaster simulations during nursing school can enhance disaster knowledge and preparedness.