Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Nurses Regarding Disaster Management and Emergency Preparedness at Tertiary Care Hospital Swat, KPK.

Abstract

Introduction: Natural and artificial disasters pose significant challenges to healthcare systems worldwide,

necessitating effective disaster management and emergency preparedness. As frontline healthcare

providers, nurses play a critical role in disaster response, making their knowledge, attitudes, and practices

(KAP) essential for effective crisis management. Aim: This study aimed to assess the KAP of nurses

regarding disaster management and emergency preparedness at a tertiary care hospital in Swat, Khyber

Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), Pakistan. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 132

nurses selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire

divided into three sections: knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Descriptive statistics and Chi-Square tests

were employed for data analysis using SPSS version 27. Results: Most participants were female (69.7%)

and aged 20-30 years (49.2%). Most nurses had less than five years of experience (37.9%). Knowledge

levels were moderate (53.0%), with 34.1% demonstrating high knowledge and 12.9% low knowledge.

Attitudes were predominantly positive (64.4%), while practices were rated as good (45.5%), fair (41.7%),

and poor (12.9%). A significant correlation was found between years of experience and preparedness

levels, with more experienced nurses showing higher preparedness. Knowledge and practices were also

strongly associated (χ²=12.45, p=0.002). Conclusion: The study highlights the need for enhanced training

and institutional support to improve nurses' disaster preparedness, particularly for less experienced staff.

While knowledge and attitudes are generally positive, practical application remains inadequate. Regular

training, simulations, and mentorship programs are recommended to strengthen disaster management

capabilities among nurses.