The importance of instruction on mass casualty incidents in baccalaureate nursing programs: perceptions of nursing...

This study examined whether a relationship exists between mass casualty incident knowledge and perceived importance of incorporating competencies regarding mass casualty incidents into baccalaureate nursing programs by faculty in Louisiana. A total of 285 educators in baccalaureate nursing programs in Louisiana were asked to complete the survey instrument; usable surveys was collected from 166 participants (58%). Results indicated participants had limited training and life experiences regarding mass casualty incidents, as well as limited knowledge of mass casualty incidents. However, participants perceived mass casualty incident instruction as important for inclusion in nursing curricula. There was a positive relationship between self-perceived knowledge of mass casualty incidents and perceived importance of including these competencies into the nursing curriculum. These findings suggest schools of nursing take steps to identify or train a pool of educators who can teach mass casualty incident preparation.