Knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding disaster preparedness among nursing students

Abstract

Objective:  to analyze the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding disaster preparedness among nursing students, in a municipality highly vulnerable to natural disasters, in relation to their preparation for such events. Method:  a questionnaire was administered to 363 students, with a mean age of 21.54 years, most of whom were women (78.51%). Results:  97.25% demonstrated adequate knowledge about disasters; however, only 66.67% were familiar with their college’s evacuation procedures. In terms of attitudes, 93.11% showed a positive disposition toward disaster preparedness, although only 26.72% had received continuing academic training on the subject. Regarding practices, only 20.39% reported adequate actions in emergency situations, and 19.01% considered that their university was prepared to face a natural disaster. A positive correlation was identified between the level of knowledge and practices, suggesting that a higher level of knowledge favors the application of effective measures in emergency contexts. Conclusion:  although nursing students demonstrated favorable knowledge and attitudes, practices remain limited. These findings highlight the need to reinforce practical training in disaster management to strengthen their capacity to respond to emergencies.