Related Experiment Videos
Function and response of nursing facilities during community disaster
Debra Saliba1, Joan Buchanan, Raynard S Kington
1Health Services Research and Development, Veteran Administration Greater Los Angeles Health Care System, CA, USA. saliba@rand.org
American Journal of Public Health
|July 31, 2004
Summary
Nursing facilities faced significant challenges after the Northridge earthquake, including damage and service disruptions. Community disaster plans must include nursing facilities to improve future disaster response.
Area of Science:
- Disaster preparedness
- Geriatric care
- Public health
Background:
- Nursing facilities are critical infrastructure for vulnerable populations.
- Disasters pose unique challenges to long-term care facilities.
- Effective disaster planning is essential for nursing facility resilience.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the role and function of nursing facilities post-disaster.
- To identify challenges faced by nursing facilities during disaster recovery.
- To assess the adequacy of existing disaster plans in nursing facilities.
Main Methods:
- A survey of 144 nursing facility administrators was conducted post-Los Angeles Northridge earthquake.
- Data collected focused on facility damage, service disruptions, and disaster plan implementation.
- Response rate was 78% (113 facilities, 11,365 beds).
Main Results:
- 23 facilities sustained severe damage; 5 closed (625 beds).
- 72 facilities lost vital services; 56 reported inadequate disaster plans.
- 59 facilities accepted disaster-related admissions; post-disaster assistance was limited.
Conclusions:
- Nursing facilities demonstrated resilience and met community needs despite disaster impacts.
- Existing disaster plans were often insufficient, highlighting areas for improvement.
- Integrating nursing facilities into community-wide disaster planning is crucial for enhanced preparedness.