Database of Health Workforce Innovations
705
Not given
In the midst of this tragedy, nurses displayed leadership and heroism in their
care of thousands of victims.
care of thousands of victims.
In addition to providing patient care, nurses served as community liaisons, media
spokespersons, patient transportation coordinators and emergency care specialists throughout the crisis.
"What struck me most was how nurses stepped up to the plate - to assist in any way they could during the disaster," says Joan Wynn. "From being out in the shelters, to giving tetanus shots, to functioning as nursing assistants, to running a transportation center. Nurses gave 100 percent to ensure that patients, staff and the community had what they needed during this trying time."
Several nurses from the local community assisted 200 people seeking shelter in Carver Elementary School. Nurse volunteers helped identify needs, contact
community health professionals for supplies and services, and triage residents. At other shelters established during the disaster, nurses helped unpack food from trucks, organize storerooms, serve food and mop the floor. Many even assisted with cleaning up homes following the flooding.
spokespersons, patient transportation coordinators and emergency care specialists throughout the crisis.
"What struck me most was how nurses stepped up to the plate - to assist in any way they could during the disaster," says Joan Wynn. "From being out in the shelters, to giving tetanus shots, to functioning as nursing assistants, to running a transportation center. Nurses gave 100 percent to ensure that patients, staff and the community had what they needed during this trying time."
Several nurses from the local community assisted 200 people seeking shelter in Carver Elementary School. Nurse volunteers helped identify needs, contact
community health professionals for supplies and services, and triage residents. At other shelters established during the disaster, nurses helped unpack food from trucks, organize storerooms, serve food and mop the floor. Many even assisted with cleaning up homes following the flooding.
- New roles
- Expanded roles
- Nurse Specialists*
- Nurses - Licensed Practical
- Nurses - Registered
In 1999, Hurricane Floyd caused serious flooding in North Carolina, leaving 60,000 people displaced. 52 people died.
- Community Health Services
- Home Care Services
- Hospitals
- Primary Health Care
- Public Health
Anecdotal or Hyporthetical Solution
Corbett RW; Marshburn D. Nurses in disaster. Excellence in Clinical Practice ;1(3):1-3.
Robin Webb Corbett
East Carolina University School of Nursing
United States
USA