J Emerg Nurs. 2025 Dec 12:S0099-1767(25)00471-4. doi: 10.1016/j.jen.2025.11.016. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
Pediatric emergency nurses play a central role in mass casualty incident response, yet persistent gaps in readiness remain. This quality improvement project evaluated baseline mass casualty incident readiness among registered nurses in a large pediatric emergency department and assessed the impact of an educational intervention combining didactic review and simulation-based functional exercises. Using a pre-/postintervention design, nurses completed a readiness survey and participated in timed functional tasks to assess knowledge, confidence, and efficiency. The intervention comprised a didactic review of institutional protocols, a practical review of supply locations, and 30-minute functional simulation drills focused on zone leader responsibilities. A total of 63 nurses completed preassessments, and 64 completed postassessments. After the intervention, 92% accurately identified supply locations, 98% described zone leader roles, and 100% reported feeling at least neutral in preparedness. Knowledge gains in this project were statistically significant (P < .001). The results indicate that structured education combined with simulation improved pediatric emergency nurses’ readiness for mass casualty incidents within this setting. The intervention’s effectiveness was further demonstrated when it was applied successfully during an actual mass casualty incident. Incorporating pediatric-focused mass casualty incident training into ongoing ED education may continue to enhance nurse competence, support team performance, and strengthen institutional disaster preparedness.
PMID:41389075 | DOI:10.1016/j.jen.2025.11.016
