Earthquakes are sudden and uncontrollable natural disasters that disrupt societal order, causing loss of life, injuries, severe psychological effects, and economic damage within a short period. Therefore, they are considered a significant public health issue that requires priority attention. Turkey is located on one of the world's most active fault lines, with nearly half of its landmass classified as a first-degree seismic zone. This situation increases the frequency of earthquakes and exposes a large portion of the population to seismic risk.
On February 6, 2023, two major earthquakes struck Turkey, affecting 11 provinces and causing severe loss of life and property. These earthquakes resulted in thousands of fatalities and extensive destruction of homes and businesses. Despite advancements in technology, the precise timing of earthquakes remains unpredictable. However, estimates can be made, and appropriate precautions can significantly reduce the loss of life and property. Preventive measures and conscious interventions taken before an earthquake can help mitigate its devastating effects and protect human life. In this context, the preparedness of healthcare professionals, especially nursing students who represent the future of healthcare, is of utmost importance. As the largest professional group in healthcare, nursing students have the potential to play a crucial role in disaster response.
Being informed and prepared for earthquakes is essential for ensuring the safety of nursing students and protecting public health. Earthquake preparedness and awareness training aim to equip nursing students with the necessary skills to act correctly and effectively before, during, and after an earthquake. Such training enhances earthquake literacy, enabling students to make informed and swift decisions in high-risk situations. Strengthening education on disaster management and emergency healthcare services further supports nurses in taking conscious and effective action during disasters. Research highlights that disaster nursing and management education can reduce mortality, improve healthcare services, and decrease disaster-related costs.
Additionally, earthquake preparedness training positively influences nursing students' attitudes toward earthquakes, encouraging them to take an active role in disaster management. Studies show that individuals with earthquake awareness experience less panic and make more rational decisions during seismic events. Therefore, integrating earthquake preparedness and awareness training into nursing curricula is considered essential. In countries like Turkey, where a significant portion of the population is at risk of earthquakes, it is crucial to enhance the visibility of nurses in disaster response and align their professional roles with contemporary disaster nursing practices. International research indicates that disaster management education increases healthcare professionals' preparedness for emergencies, allowing them to serve their communities more effectively.
This study aims to examine the impact of earthquake preparedness and awareness training on the readiness, earthquake literacy, and attitudes of nursing students studying in a high-risk seismic zone. Implementing an effective training program is expected to enhance students' disaster preparedness levels and play a significant role in protecting public health. The findings of this study are anticipated to contribute to the development of nursing education curricula and the reinforcement of disaster preparedness training.
