Disaster Nursing: How to Prepare for the Unexpected

• We do not always know when a natural disaster will occur, so it is vital that we are as prepared as possible.
• There are many forms of disaster nursing, and no, you do not need a special certification to take part in it.
• Check out Nursing CE Central to learn more about disaster nursing and how you can get involved in the event of a catastrophe occurring!

Nurses are an essential part of our society; they are on the front lines, caring for the sick and injured.  

So, what happens when infrastructure fails during a natural or man-made disaster, causing mass casualties and destruction?  

What is disaster nursing? 

Disaster Nursing

A team of nurses, innovators, and advocates dedicated to re-imagining healthcare staffing, Trusted Inc., defines the field of disaster nursing as “the adaptation of professional nursing knowledge, skills, and attitude in recognizing and meeting the physical and emotional needs of disaster victims.”

The Importance of Preparedness

Although disasters can occur at any time, there are some instances where we can plan and prepare for them ahead of time. 

According to the national public service campaign designed to continuously inform those in the U.S. about upcoming disasters, Ready, it is now hurricane and tropical storm season on both the east and west coasts. 

With that being said, it is important that we, as healthcare professionals, are as prepared as we can be in the instance of a disaster occurring. 

What Do I Need? 

Of course, if a natural catastrophe occurs without any preparation (which is very possible), I can almost assure you that your nursing services will not be turned away just because you do not have the disaster nursing certifications. 

In the event of an emergency where lives are at stake, your helping hand is and always will be appreciated. 

However, there are various classes, trainings, and certifications you can receive that will further prepare you for what the disaster nursing role entails. 

For example, the ANA offers a National Healthcare Disaster Certification (NHDP-BC) that is renewable every five years.

Disaster Nursing Role 

The top travel nursing agency in the U.S., American Mobile, highlights five ways an RN can get involved in disaster nursing whether you have specific certifications or not! Check them out: 

1. Volunteering with the Red Cross, or as a caregiver for short-staffed nursing facilities.  
2. Offering disaster nursing services through the International Medical Corps. 
3. Assisting your community members by providing care that meets basic, essential needs. On top of this, you want to return your community to normalcy as quickly as possible if feasible.  
4. Providing relief to exhausted nurses. 
5. Ensuring the implementation of a daily routine. 

What Types of Disasters Happen Every Year that Nurses Can Be a Part Of?

If you do not live in an area or region where disasters happen often, then the topic of disaster nursing may not be on your mind.  

However, there are several areas in the U.S. where disasters regularly strike.  

Natural disasters, unfortunately, cannot be prevented; however, the damage caused by the event may be reduced if medical professionals take advanced action to decrease the risk and vulnerability to these potentially affected communities.  

Southeast – Hurricanes/Tropical Storms

The main issues surrounding the aftermath of a hurricane or tropical storm are food, water, shelter, and possibly, evacuation; the basic needs of human life.

Nurses may be responsible for evacuating patients from hospitals; all facilities have disaster preparedness plans. 

During an emergency, the question remains whether to evacuate or to stay put and take shelter. Evacuations occur if a hospital or other type of facility is in harm’s way. Only the most fragile patients may be evacuated.  

Update (Sept. 2021): We want to extend our compassion and gratitude to those who have been actively working to provide care to those in need amidst the terrors of Hurricane Ida.

You all are heroes, and we want to ensure that we highlight you all and thank you for your dedication to this field of service.

Western U.S. – Wild Fires 

During wildfires, nurses can volunteer with major disaster relief organizations; they often camp in recreational areas surrounded by dust and smoke, serving as logistics coordinators and direct where people can safely stay.  

They may also distribute supplies and provide first aid.  

Many people are forced to evacuate without their medications, and patients with asthma and other medical conditions may experience severe breathing problems, as air quality is a major concern during wildfires. 

For both wild fires, hurricanes/tropical storms, and various other natural disasters, it is vital that nurses address their patients’ (and colleagues’) emotional needs, as these moments can be extremely traumatic. 

Challenges that Nurses May Encounter

Even with extensive training and educational preparation, nurses who learn to expect the unexpected may be more prepared in their response to a disaster.  

However, nursing during these times will also come with several challenges that they may have not learned during school. Some examples include: 

• Balancing their professional and personal obligations – working to help others when their own family is in potential danger 
• Working with limited resources and supplies 
• Facing safety threats such as violence and infectious disease
• Dealing with legal implications related to practicing outside of the nurse’s specialty area 
• Struggling with ethical decisions and life and death 

If you would like more information on disaster nursing, check out the ANA for educational materials. 

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