Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Nurses about Disaster Management in Mayo Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan.

Abstract

Background: Disaster preparedness is an essential component of hospital-based healthcare systems, particularly for nursing staff who serve on the frontline during emergency situations. The increasing frequency of both natural and man-made disasters necessitates the development of effective knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) among healthcare professionals. Despite the vital role of nurses, gaps in disaster readiness continue to hinder optimal response, especially in resource-constrained healthcare settings.

Objective: To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding disaster management among staff nurses at Mayo Hospital, Lahore, and to examine the association with demographic variables such as age, gender, and experience.

Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Mayo Hospital, Lahore, in March 2024. A total of 200 nurses were recruited using a convenient sampling technique. Inclusion criteria required participants to have a minimum of two years of professional experience. Data were collected through a validated self-structured questionnaire comprising 15 knowledge, 14 attitude, and 14 practice items, assessed using a 5-point Likert scale. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed using SPSS version 21, with results presented as means, standard deviations, frequencies, and percentages.

Results: Out of 200 participants, 53% were female and 47% male. The mean knowledge score was 3.1 (SD ±1.6), attitude score was 3.0 (SD ±1.4), and practice score was 4.0 (SD ±1.2). Female nurses showed higher average knowledge (3.3 vs. 2.9), attitude (3.2 vs. 2.8), and practice scores (4.2 vs. 3.6) compared to males. Nurses with over 3 years of experience had the highest KAP scores. Age and experience were positively associated with better disaster preparedness.

Conclusion: While practice levels were relatively strong, knowledge and attitudes toward disaster preparedness were suboptimal. Structured educational programs and practical training must be prioritized to strengthen disaster response readiness among nurses.