Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of educational programs on disaster preparedness and management for emergency nurses and nursing students, focusing on teaching methods that enhance readiness and competence. Background: The increasing frequency and severity of disasters require healthcare systems to be adequately prepared. Nurses, often on the frontline, must receive structured and effective training to respond to critical events with competence and resilience. Methods: A Rapid Evidence Assessment was conducted to explore and synthesize the available literature on educational interventions in disaster preparedness. Studies were identified through structured searches in international databases and were selected and evaluated using the PRISMA 2020 checklist. The quality of included studies was appraised using the CASP tool. Results: Thirty-six studies met the inclusion criteria. Educational programs incorporating realistic simulations, virtual technologies, and interprofessional exercises were most effective in improving technical skills, confidence, and crisis management. Programs varied in format and intensity but shared common elements such as experiential learning and integration of psychological preparedness. Discussion: Educational interventions must balance theory with practice and adapt to diverse cultural and contextual needs. Simulations and technology-enhanced learning emerge as critical strategies to reinforce emergency competencies. Conclusion: Educational programs in disaster preparedness positively influence nurses’ readiness, skills, and confidence. Integrating these interventions into nursing education is essential to prepare a responsive and resilient workforce. Implications for Nursing: Ongoing and structured education strengthens nurses’ ability to respond effectively during disasters, promoting professional growth and emotional resilience. Implications for Health Policy: Policies should support the mandatory inclusion of disaster preparedness training in nursing curricula and continuing education. National frameworks must prioritize standardized educational models to ensure healthcare system resilience and nurse preparedness worldwide.
Effective Educational Programs for Disaster Preparedness and Management: A Rapid Evidence Assessment
Lara Delbene;Sara Mezini;Roger Watson;Giuseppe Aleo;Marco Di Nitto;Milko Zanini;Gianluca Catania;Loredana Sasso;Annamaria Bagnasco
2026-01-01
Abstract
Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of educational programs on disaster preparedness and management for emergency nurses and nursing students, focusing on teaching methods that enhance readiness and competence. Background: The increasing frequency and severity of disasters require healthcare systems to be adequately prepared. Nurses, often on the frontline, must receive structured and effective training to respond to critical events with competence and resilience. Methods: A Rapid Evidence Assessment was conducted to explore and synthesize the available literature on educational interventions in disaster preparedness. Studies were identified through structured searches in international databases and were selected and evaluated using the PRISMA 2020 checklist. The quality of included studies was appraised using the CASP tool. Results: Thirty-six studies met the inclusion criteria. Educational programs incorporating realistic simulations, virtual technologies, and interprofessional exercises were most effective in improving technical skills, confidence, and crisis management. Programs varied in format and intensity but shared common elements such as experiential learning and integration of psychological preparedness. Discussion: Educational interventions must balance theory with practice and adapt to diverse cultural and contextual needs. Simulations and technology-enhanced learning emerge as critical strategies to reinforce emergency competencies. Conclusion: Educational programs in disaster preparedness positively influence nurses’ readiness, skills, and confidence. Integrating these interventions into nursing education is essential to prepare a responsive and resilient workforce. Implications for Nursing: Ongoing and structured education strengthens nurses’ ability to respond effectively during disasters, promoting professional growth and emotional resilience. Implications for Health Policy: Policies should support the mandatory inclusion of disaster preparedness training in nursing curricula and continuing education. National frameworks must prioritize standardized educational models to ensure healthcare system resilience and nurse preparedness worldwide.
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