Disaster Response Preparedness and Timely Crisis Action Among Nurses in King Faisal Hospital in Makkah: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Incidents and disasters are sudden, unpredictable events that often occur without warning. Timely disaster response is essential in any healthcare setting to ensure the effectiveness of patient care and minimize casualties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the processes and factors that influence the effectiveness of nursing disaster response and timely action in crisis management among nurses at King Faisal Hospital in Makkah.

Aim: The present study evaluates the relationship between disaster response preparedness and timely crisis action among nurses in King Faisal Hospital in the Makkah Region.

Methods:  A descriptive cross-sectional design was conducted with a purposeful sample that included 220 nurses working in critical care departments at King Faisal Hospital in the Makkah Region. Data collected through an electronic structured questionnaire included six items of demographic data and the Disaster Response Essentials (disaster response and Timely Action in crisis) questionnaire.

Results: The results revealed that around (75.9%) nurses were female, aged 20–30 years (44.5%) with 2 to 5 years of experience (32.3%), (45.0%) of them worked in the Emergency Department, and (70.9%) were Staff Nurses. There was a strong, positive, and statistically significant relationship between disaster response and Timely Action in crisis (.000). Factors such as specialized disaster response training, prior experience during Hajj and Umrah seasons, and gender showed statistically significant associations with disaster response levels and timely action among nurses (P ≤ 0.01).

Conclusion: The study concludes that a high level of preparedness and capability, along with timely action in crisis situations, is essential for nurses. Well-structured disaster preparedness programs and continuous professional development directly contribute to improved readiness and performance among nurses in crisis conditions.