Practical knowledge of healthcare professionals who provided the initial response to victims of the sarin gas attack on the underground in Tokyo

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to identify practical knowledge about the initial response at healthcare facilities in the event of a human-induced disaster, based on the narratives of healthcare personnel who experienced the initial response to victims of the sarin gas attack on the Tokyo, Japan, subway system. Methods: Six healthcare workers who were engaged in the initial response to the victims of the sarin subway incident were interviewed using semi-structured interviews. Results: The narrative was composed of 6 categories, 15 subcategories, and 105 codes. The categories identified were "Complementary clinical judgment," "Reflection on nursing and healthcare practice," "Passing on a unique experience," "Knowledge of biological and chemical weapons," "Responsibilities as a healthcare professional," and "Need for medium- to long-term care of victims." Conclusions: It became clear that the acquisition of knowledge and skills to protect oneself first and to minimize secondary disasters, along with the accumulation of daily nursing practice, is necessary. The need for the development of new knowledge and nursing education regarding man-made disasters, including terrorism, was demonstrated.