Technical assistance for emergency and disaster nursing, Ministry of Health Samoa

Date: July 2011
WHO CC involvement: Lisa Conlon and Dr Lesley Seaton

Following the tsunami of 2009, gaps were identified in regards to the provision of Emergency and Disaster (E&D) Nursing/Midwifery care in Samoa. As nurses and midwives are often the first line responders and leaders during these situations, it has been identified that a formalised training program be developed and subsequently provided in order to adequately prepare nurses/midwives for future emergency and disaster situations.

A committee developed an E&D pilot course in order to commence a formal training nursing/midwifery program within Samoa. During the in-country consultancy period, discussion occurred regarding the re-accreditation of personnel following initial training.

Course lectures, presentations and clinical skills development sessions were developed for this pilot course. A team teaching approach was utilised to prepare future trainers to continue to enhance and tailor courses to meet the needs of the participants. The pilot course was conducted from 18 – 23 July 2011.

Nursing and midwifery leaders and educators will be able to continue to improve education of nurses and midwifes regarding emergency and disaster preparedness.

Acknowledgement of Country

UTS acknowledges the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, the Boorooberongal people of the Dharug Nation, the Bidiagal people and the Gamaygal people, upon whose ancestral lands our university stands. We would also like to pay respect to the Elders both past and present, acknowledging them as the traditional custodians of knowledge for these lands.