Exploring the Role of Nursing in Managing Mass Casualty Incidents

Abstract

Background:Mass casualty incidents (MCIs) are complex events that often overwhelm healthcare systems, requiring rapid, coordinated responses to minimize mortality and morbidity. Nurses play a critical role in these scenarios, serving as frontline responders who provide essential care, facilitate efficient triage, and manage both physical and psychological needs of patients. Despite the increasing frequency of MCIs globally, there is limited comprehensive research on the multifaceted role of nurses in managing such crises effectively.

Aim:This paper aims to explore the critical roles of nurses in managing mass casualty incidents, highlighting their contributions across the phases of disaster management—preparedness, response, and recovery. It also seeks to identify challenges faced by nurses and propose strategies to enhance their capacity in MCI scenarios.

Methods:This study adopts a comprehensive literature review approach, analyzing peer-reviewed articles, case studies, and reports from reputable databases including PubMed and CINAHL. The review examines nursing roles in MCI management, focusing on triage, acute care, interdisciplinary collaboration, and patient advocacy. Data were synthesized to identify trends, challenges, and best practices in nursing during MCIs.

Results:Findings indicate that nurses are pivotal in ensuring efficient triage, administering life-saving interventions, and addressing mental health needs of patients and communities. However, resource constraints, ethical dilemmas, and emotional strain significantly impact their performance. The study highlights the importance of disaster-specific training, supportive policies, and advanced technologies in enhancing nursing efficacy during MCIs.

Conclusion:Nursing interventions significantly improve patient outcomes and system efficiency during MCIs. Investing in disaster preparedness training, policy reforms, and mental health support for nurses is crucial to strengthening healthcare systems’ resilience against future crises.