This book addresses issues in disaster preparedness specific to nurses in a host of practice sites.Through a compilation of research, nurses' personal experiences in disaster and trauma care, firsthand accounts from the authors and other experts in bioterrorism and disaster preparedness, this book introduces users to basic disaster nursing and works to help prepare them for a wide spectrum of settings and situations that are relevant in today's world. It includes a pocket flip chart that serves as a quick guide to fast facts imperative to nurses in responding to disasters of all kinds.Nursing Students and Nursing Professionals.

Joanne C. Langan, PhD, RN: Saint Louis University School of Nursing Dotti C. James, PhD, RN: Saint Louis University School of Nursing

This textbook addresses issues in disaster preparedness specific to nurses in a variety of practice sites. This is important for nurses who will be leaders in caring for disaster victims. Nurses will play key roles in disaster relief whether they work full time, part time, or at home in their communities.Nurses will be expected to help victims, rescuers, family members, and friends who are directly or indirectly involved in mass casualty events. The public expects professional nurses to provide skilled, competent care after natural and man-made disasters. Therefore, nurses have the responsibility to learn basic disaster preparedness.This textbook will introduce nurses and students to basic disaster nursing. It is a compilation of research and nurses' personal experiences in disaster and trauma care, from the authors' experiences and from other experts in bioterrorism and disaster preparedness. We were part of a team who traveled to Israel to study with nurses and health care professionals who deal with terrorism and disasters on a daily basis. Many effective disaster planning and response systems are in place in other countries. We welcome comments from nurses in these countries and will compile this information in later editions ofPreparing Nurses for Disaster Management.Our education is ongoing. We must prepare our families, neighbors and communities to respond appropriately to terrorism and disasters of all types.Chapter 1 presents a general overview of types of disasters; conventional and nonconventional terrorism, and chemical, biological, and nuclear terrorist agents. Chapters 2 and 3 contain practical advice for planning and organizing health care agencies for disasters, including assessing community and organizational vulnerability, identifying agencies involved in disaster response, and agencies and personnel who are integral in coordinating rescue efforts. Chapter 4 explores mental health theory and explains how nurses promote mental health before and after disasters. Chapters 5 through 11 deal with preparing nurses in a variety of practice settings to assist patients and victims with diverse needs to prepare for the trauma of disasters. The final chapter shares stories from persons who live in the aftermath of disasters. Selected chapters include Nursing Vignettes, commentaries from nurses who have experienced disasters, or respond to terrorism on a daily basis.This textbook will assist educators to integrate disaster preparedness within existing curricula. The tests, case studies, and discussion questions will identify areas needing reinforcement or additional education. In addition, agencies will use this book as a foundation for staff and employee development. Joanne Langan Dotti James