Overview
Disasters occur every day. The community health nurse has a significant role in preparedness, response and recovery when disaster strikes locally. Effective response to disaster demands the community health nurse to develop specific competencies. These include understanding the role, recognition of disaster-related health conditions, infection control post disaster, disease reporting, public education and stress management in the affected community.
Discussion Question:
Identify your own level of preparedness should disaster strike in your area. Visit the Red Cross site: http://www.redcross.org/get-help/prepare-for-emergencies/be-red-cross-ready to review details on disaster preparedness kit, plan and information. Discuss your response to this information. Were you surprised at your level of readiness? What steps will you take to prepare yourself and your family for the possibility of disaster? How can you share this information with your community?
Your initial posting should be at least 400 words in length and utilize at least one scholarly source other than the textbook.