Analysis of environmental issues for nursing aboard the USNS Mercy (T-AH 19)

The USNS Mercy (T-AH 19) is a unique environment for its staff and patients. Several environmental influences distinctively affect health, medical, and nursing care. Six main areas of environmental concern for operational nursing were examined. The strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to the internal environment of a hospital ship were explored. Findings indicate that the USNS Mercy meets or exceeds many environmental standards. However, there is significant room for improvement and nursing involvement in issues related to the management of infectious diseases, patient transport, care of patients with nuclear, biological, or chemical agents, and management of wastes aboard the ship. Nursing implications for research and practice are proposed.