This study evaluates the level of disaster preparedness among first-line nurse managers.

The presented study utilizes Bandura’s Social Cognitive Theory of Self-Efficacy as a theoretical framework as it emphasizes that individuals’ confidence in their abilities, shaped by experience, training, and education, plays a significant role in their performance during disaster management and increased by real-world experience as well as education. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was conducted by using a validated questionnaire based on the International Council of Nurses framework. Data were collected using a convivence sample of 106 first-line nurse managers across hospitals in Jordan between March and May 2023. Descriptive and inferential statistics were utilized.

The results highlighted a moderate level of disaster preparedness (M = 3.52, SD = 0.84), with the highest scores in assessment (M = 3.65, SD = 0.92) and intervention (M = 3.58, SD = 0.98). Significant differences in preparedness were observed based on hospital type, leadership role, disaster training type, and education level. Nurse managers with prior disaster training, higher education, and leadership roles indicated a higher level of preparedness.

This study highlights the need for increased disaster training programs tailored to nurse managers, integrating theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience. Strengthening disaster preparedness in nursing education and hospital policies is essential to ensure effective disaster response and improve patient safety. Findings can guide future strategies for disaster preparedness training and policy development in Jordanian health care settings.

No study has evaluated the relationship between heavy rain disasters and influenza by comparing victims and non-victims, and we investigated the association between the 2018 western Japan heavy rain disaster and influenza.

All patients registered in the National Health Insurance Claims Database and treated in the Hiroshima, Okayama, and Ehime prefectures were included in this retrospective cohort study conducted 1-year post-disaster. A multivariate mixed-effects logistic regression analysis was used to assess the association between the disaster and anti-influenza drug prescribing. A difference-in-differences analysis was conducted to assess anti-influenza drug use for the 4-month period immediately before and every 4 months for a year post-disaster.

This study included 6 176 300 individuals (victims: 36 076 [0.60%]); 2573 (7.1%) and 458 157 (7.4%) in the victim and non-victim groups, respectively, used anti-influenza drugs in the year following the flood. The victims were significantly more likely than non-victims to use anti-influenza drug (risk ratio 1.18; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.12-1.42). The victims used significantly more anti-influenza drugs in the 4 months immediately post-disaster compared with just before the disaster (odds ratio 3.62; 95% CI 1.77-7.41).

Anti-influenza drug use was higher among victims of the 2018 Western Japan heavy rain disaster than among non-victims.

Millions of people witnessing early, repeated media coverage of wars are at heightened risk of developing mental health conditions. However, most literature available on the field is based on measures with unverified psychometric qualities. This study aimed to design and validate a new self-report scale to measure the extent of exposure to media content related to war, the War-related Media Exposure Scale (WarMES).

A cross-sectional study based on 2635 community adults (73.1% females, mean age of 23.98 ± 7.55 years) from 5 countries (Tunisia, Kuwait, Egypt, Jordan, Oman). To verify the factor structure, we carried out an Exploratory Factor Analysis in a first subsample (N = 859) then a Confirmatory Factor Analysis on the remaining subsample (N = 1777) using SPSS AMOS.

Based on an initial pool of 18 items, results showed that a 9-item one-factor model fits the data well. Support for internal consistency was provided by a Cronbach’s α = 0.96. The factor structure was equivalent across sex and country groups. Evidence for concurrent validity was provided by demonstrating that WarMES scores positively correlated with stress and depression.

Findings suggest that the WarMES is valid, reliable and allows to accurately measure the amount of time spent viewing war-content on media.

Following natural disasters nurses assume a critical role in the provision of primary health care services in container cities. This study aims to reveal the experiences of nurses who voluntarily provided primary health care services in the container city constructed after the earthquake.

This study was conducted using a qualitative study design, and reported following the COREQ guidelines. Interviews were conducted with 9 volunteer nurses between January 11-29, 2024. Study data were collected using a “Personal Information Form” and “Semi-Structured Questionnaire” via in-depth interview technique. Collected data were analyzed with a 6-step thematic analysis method.

Five main themes were featured in the study: “Factors affecting participation in volunteer activities,” “Scope of volunteer services,” “Challenges experienced in volunteer activities,” “Achievements of volunteer activities,” and “Suggestions for improving volunteer services.”

Volunteer nurses have experienced various gains, as well as difficulties, as a result of their container city experiences. Suggestions for improving disaster nursing are instructive in terms of strengthening disaster nursing.

To evaluate anesthesiologists’ preparedness and training needs during a mass casualty event in a resource-limited setting, focusing on hospital disaster planning and response effectiveness.

This study utilized an exploratory mixed-methods design, combining qualitative and quantitative approaches to assess the experiences of anesthesiologists during a catastrophic disaster. Data were collected through interviews and a survey of anesthesiologists who were directly involved in emergency response.

The findings highlight significant gaps in disaster preparedness among hospitals, influenced by factors such as physical infrastructure damage, resource shortages, and limited personnel involvement in disaster planning. Anesthesiologists demonstrated adaptability and commitment despite inadequate training and limited disaster management frameworks. The study underscores the urgent need for standardized disaster preparedness plans, multidisciplinary training, and enhanced psychological support for health care professionals.

This study reveals critical deficiencies in hospital disaster preparedness and anesthesiologists’ training in emergency response. Addressing these gaps through robust disaster planning, simulation-based education, and institutional support is essential to enhance health care systems’ resilience in resource-limited and conflict-affected regions.

To examine innovative methods of seeking assistance during disasters and crises in vulnerable groups through a systematic review approach.

This study is a systematic review. The necessary data were obtained using relevant keywords from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Knowledge, Embase, ProQuest databases, and the Google Scholar search engine. The study was conducted without any time limitations and using the PRISMA protocol. The CASP tool was used for assessing the quality of the articles.

Of 6002 initial articles, 11 final articles were selected and included in the study. Most of the studies were from Australia, and the most frequently examined vulnerable groups were disabled people and people who are deaf or hard of hearing. The basis for the methods and tools used in seeking assistance and managing disasters was the disaster risk reduction programs in communities, which utilized information systems, educational frameworks, communication platforms, and media tools to achieve the goals, considering specific environmental and cultural conditions.

Given the emergency nature of disasters, government commitment and support should be based on the allocation of special resources and the active participation of vulnerable individuals.

The aim of this study is to examine the effect of the heat index over a 1-week period in the region where patients reside on those presenting to the emergency department (ED) with complaints of acute diarrhea and diagnosed with amoebic diarrhea based on their test results.

This study retrospectively analyzed patients who presented with acute diarrhea to a tertiary health care center over the course of 1 year, focusing on the association between symptomatic amoebic diarrhea cases and the 7-day average heat index prior to admission.

A total of 1406 patients were included in the analysis, of whom 251 (17.9%) were diagnosed with amebiasis, while 1155 (82.1%) were classified as non-amebiasis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified an increased 7-day heat index average (OR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.099-1.141, P < 0.001) as independent predictors of amebiasis. The proportion of amebiasis cases demonstrated a moderate positive correlation with the heat index at lag 0 (r = 0.55, P < 0.001), peaking at lag 4 (r = 0.57, P < 0.001). This correlation remained statistically significant up to lag 14 (r = 0.46, P = 0.013) but weakened substantially at longer lags

This study determined that in diarrhea patients presenting to the ED, the average increase in the heat index during the week prior to admission influenced the detection rate of amoebic infections.

Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) scope of practice guidelines in the US suggest that EMTs should assist paramedics with advanced skills during patient care. However, learning to assist with these skills is not an EMT national education requirement. This study examined the feasibility and impact of a short, online pilot continuing education course in providing EMTs with the confidence and basic knowledge to assist with advanced interventions.

The pilot cohort included licensed EMTs (n=10) self-enrolled in a continuing education class listed on the institution’s EMS continuing education website and advertised on social media. Optional, anonymous questionnaires and multiple-choice exams were administered to students pre/post-course. Statistical analysis included paired nonparametric tests.

Total scores were 43% higher on the post-exam (88/100, 95% CI [76, 100]) compared to the pre-exam (45/100, 95% CI [37, 53]) (P<0.05). Self-reported comfort was higher on the post-evaluation for needle thoracostomy (95% increase), advanced airways (25% increase), EKGs (19% increase), intravenous access (14% increase), and communication (22% increase).

Results suggest that short, online continuing education courses on BLS-ALS interface for EMTs might be efficacious in improving both comfort and knowledge of selected advanced interventions often used by paramedics, although larger future studies are needed.

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a significant cause of respiratory tract infections, particularly in young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. Despite its global impact, research on therapeutic, diagnostic, and preventive interventions remains fragmented. This study conducts a bibliometric analysis to evaluate global trends, advancements, and gaps in HMPV intervention research.

Bibliometric data were retrieved from the Scopus database using keywords related to HMPV interventions, including “treatment,” “vaccine,” and “diagnostics,” for the period 2000–2025. Data were analyzed using Biblioshiny, the graphical interface of the Bibliometrix R package. Descriptive metrics, keyword analysis, thematic evolution, and collaboration networks were assessed, with results visualized as charts, maps, and network diagrams.

A total of 2482 publications were analyzed. Research output accelerated markedly after 2015, driven by advances in molecular diagnostics and global interest in respiratory viruses. The United States, the United Kingdom, and China emerged as leading contributors, while low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) remained underrepresented. The most productive journals were Journal of Clinical Virology and Journal of Medical Virology. Prominent themes included vaccine development, antiviral therapies, and molecular diagnostics. However, key research gaps were identified in the areas of coinfections, long-term sequelae, and interventions tailored for high-risk and resource-limited populations. Collaboration networks highlighted concentrated partnerships among high-income countries, indicating limited global equity in HMPV research.

While progress in HMPV research is evident, critical disparities remain in global collaboration and focus areas. Future efforts should prioritize inclusive partnerships, increased research in LMICs, and the development of affordable diagnostic and therapeutic solutions. This bibliometric analysis serves as a roadmap to guide equitable and impactful global HMPV research.

Acute poisoning is a major cause of pediatric emergency department (PED) visits, with the COVID-19 pandemic potentially altering exposure risks and care-seeking behaviors. This study compares pediatric poisoning characteristics before and during the pandemic.

A retrospective analysis was conducted at the Gazi University PED between January 2018 and June 2022. Patients aged 1 month-18 years diagnosed with poisoning were identified via ICD codes grouped into before pandemic and during pandemic cases. A systematic random sampling yielded 178 BP (before the pandemic) and 94 DP (during the pandemic) cases with complete data. Demographic and clinical properties of cases were analyzed.

The mean age was significantly higher during the pandemic (BP:7.63±0.49; DP:9.27±0.69). A higher prevalence of chronic diseases was noted in DP cases (BP:0.29±0.049; DP:0.57±0.100). Hotline consultations were higher in DP period (54.5% vs.72.5%) while hospitalization rates were lower (55% vs. 35.2%). While suicide attempts were significantly higher in women compared to men before the pandemic, this difference disappeared during the pandemic period (BP:8.6% of males vs. 37.2% of females; DP: 25% of males vs. 39% of females).

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted pediatric poisoning profiles, underscoring the need for targeted prevention strategies and adaptive emergency protocols.

The purpose of this study is to determine the effects of the perceived trauma levels of women at reproductive age after earthquakes on their menstruation cycle.

This descriptive and correlational study was conducted between March 17, 2023, and April 17, 2023, after the earthquakes that happened in Turkey on February 6, 2023 and affected 11 cities. The study was conducted with 355 women. Data were collected using an online questionnaire form prepared via Google Forms. Data collection was performed using a Participant Information Form and the Post-Earthquake Trauma Level Determination Scale.

According to the multiple regression analysis results, the significant predictors of perceived trauma levels after the earthquakes included the severity of dysmenorrhea (β-coefficient = 0.164, P = .007), characteristics of vaginal discharge (β-coefficient = 0.136, P = .027), and itching in the perineum (β-coefficient = −0.220, P = .001). These variables explained 12.4% of the total variance in the perceived trauma levels of the participants.

The perceived trauma levels of women after the earthquakes had significant effects on the severity of dysmenorrhea, characteristics of vaginal discharge, and itching in the perineum. Health professionals should not overlook the effects of women’s perceived trauma levels on their menstruation cycles after earthquakes and evaluate the issue considering these aspects.

Field hospitals are deployable hospitals that treat patients directly on site before they are transported to permanent medical facilities. The supply of sterile surgical instruments is important, but not every field hospital is equipped with a sterile processing department. This concept therefore attempts to test a method of reprocessing surgical instruments under field conditions that can at least provide a provisional form of disinfection in case of logistic breakdowns.

Development, testing, and evaluation of a provisional chemical reprocessing procedure for reusable surgical instruments using hydrogen peroxide. The evaluation was carried out visually, microbiologically, and with regard to material damage.

The concept is easy to implement but requires thorough training. The reprocessed surgical instruments were free of residual protein, showed no bacteriological growth, and were not damaged by the chemical reprocessing even after 10 cycles.

Provisional reprocessing of reusable surgical instruments seems possible using high-level chemical disinfection with hydrogen peroxide (3% for 150 minutes or 7.5% for 30 minutes) in case of necessity due to logistic breakdowns and patients that need immediate treatment. In addition, a multibarrier approach that includes hygiene measures and antibiotic stewardship is required to effectively reduce the risk of surgical site infections.

Emergency supply kits (ESKs) may support disaster-related self-sufficiency and may be important for people with chronic health conditions (CHCs). However, evidence of ESK’s effectiveness in supporting self-sufficiency is lacking. This study examined associations between households possessing ESKs and 1) household members leaving home for medicine and 2) individuals with CHCs seeking medical care.

Data were collected through a survey distributed to southwest Florida after Hurricane Ian’s impact (n = 1342). Associations were assessed using logistic regression models.

ESK possession was more common among households with members with CHCs (63%) than households without such members (56%). Overall, regression models revealed no clear association between ESK possession and leaving home for medicine (adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR)=1.27; CI = 0.81-2.02). Analyses restricted to households with individuals with CHCs revealed no clear associations between ESK possession and leaving the home for medicine (aOR= 1.35; CI = 0.81-2.25) or seeking medical care (aOR = 1.07; CI = 0.68-1.68).

This study did not provide evidence that ESKs promote medical self-sufficiency. However, it did not characterize the medication in households’ ESKs or the type, duration, and severity of CHCs, and could have had uncontrolled confounding. Characterization of such factors would be important in future studies of ESKs and self-sufficiency among people with CHCs.