Evaluation of an Australian nursing partnership to improve disaster response capacity

Abstract

Purpose To evaluate a partnership with specialised nurses from geographically disparate hospitals to provide critical support in national disasters. Background The Australian Government established the National Critical Care Trauma Response Centre (NCCTRC) within Royal Darwin Hospital (RDH). A partnership with the Princess Alexandra Hospital (PAH) Brisbane occurred to support RDH during national disasters. PAH nurses undertook two-week rotations to RDH in readiness for deployment. Methodology PAH, NCCTRC and RDH nurses' perceptions of the efficacy of the nurse rotations were explored in surveys and focus groups. Findings PAH nurses felt they were well equipped for practice in RDH and the partnership developed professional reciprocity with the PAH nurses feeling respected, valued and part of the RDH team. This finding of adequate preparation and effective integration was consistent with the perceptions of senior staff from the participating organisations. Value This unique partnership created a well-prepared team to provide support in a national disaster.