Preparation for Disasters Among Nurse Leaders in New York State: A Replication Study and Guide for Preparation.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the knowledge and confidence levels in emergency management and disaster preparedness among nurse leaders, and to provide recommendations for enhancing nurse leader preparedness.

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed significant gaps in disaster preparedness among healthcare leaders, including deficiencies in disaster training, underscoring the need for better preparation.

METHODS

This replication study used a prospective, cross-sectional design. Participants rated their confidence in managing disasters using the Emergency Preparedness Information Questionnaire.

RESULTS

NYONL members (n=198) demonstrated moderate confidence in disaster preparedness (mean score: 3.11). Four major needs that emerged were education specific to emergency preparedness, supply management, infection prevention, and mental health and well-being.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a critical need to better equip nurse leaders for future emergency situations. Overall, this study's findings suggest that targeted disaster training and educational opportunities, especially those emphasizing leadership and well-being, are critical to better equip nurse leaders for future emergency situations.