Nursing Roles and Models in Disaster Management

Author : Prof. Dr. Aye cevirme, Prof. Dr. Zeynep Gungormus

Abstract : Disasters are large-scale events that disrupt social life and cause serious negative impacts on social, economic, and health systems. Among these, earthquakes are one of the most destructive types of disasters due to their sudden onset and wide-ranging consequences. Although disasters cannot be completely prevented, effective disaster management strategies can significantly reduce losses and enable rapid control of crisis situations. In this context, the continuity and effectiveness of health services are of critical importance. Nurses constitute the largest and most accessible workforce within the health system and play essential roles throughout all phases of disaster management. In the pre-disaster phase, nurses are involved in risk assessment, preparedness planning, training activities, and increasing community awareness. During disasters, they provide emergency care, conduct triage, manage injured individuals, and contribute to crisis coordination. In the post-disaster period, nurses are responsible for ensuring the continuity of health services, implementing infection control measures, participating in surveillance activities, and providing psychosocial support. However, research shows that nurses’ disaster preparedness is often insufficient due to limited knowledge and training. Disaster nursing models such as HOPE, MIL, Jennings, and SINCHI offer systematic frameworks that guide nursing practice and support effective disaster response and recovery.

Keywords : Disaster, Disaster Management, Model, Nursing.

Conference Name : International Workshop on Disaster Medicine and Critical Care (IWDMCC - 26)

Conference Place : Paris, France

Conference Date : 13th Jul 2026