2025 Volume 12 Issue 1 Pages 109
Introduction and Purpose/Objectives: Worldwide, weather and climate-related disasters have increased fivefold in the past 50 years (UNRIC n.d.) and almost tenfold in recent years (cf. WELTHUNGERHILFE n.d.; BMEL 2021). In Germany, flood-related natural disasters are primarily responsible for damage and deaths. In addition, the Covid 19 pandemic has also led to massive changes in the care of people in need of care. In Germany, the prevention and management of crises and disasters in healthcare facilities is largely regulated by law. There is currently no systematic training in this area. The acute crisis and disaster situations in Germany have highlighted the high demand for appropriately trained, expert nursing staff.
Approaches/Methods: As part of a teaching research project in the Applied Nursing Science degree program on disaster preparedness in Frankfurt healthcare facilities, 12 guideline-based expert interviews were conducted and evaluated using qualitative content analysis according to Kuckartz/Mayring. The focus was on the aspects of communication, leadership and training.
Results/Findings: In terms of communication, the experiences of the Covid 19 pandemic show that regular training, including on topics such as motivation and dealing with emotions as well as adapting skills, was identified as a prerequisite for success. Processing experiences as part of art projects can also provide psychosocial support. With regard to training, the analysis of the interviews shows that clear tasks, legal safeguards and simulation training are crucial. However, challenges were identified in harmonizing European regulations and adapting curricula. Best practices include the regular revision of guidelines and the promotion of interprofessional collaboration. Practical experience and psychosocial support are also important to promote student resilience.
Discussion/Implication: Future research should include experts from regions with more frequent disasters to obtain a more comprehensive picture.
