| Abstract [eng] |
Emergency situations increasingly strain Lithuanian’s healthcare system amid a growing nursing shortage. The World Health Organization estimates the shortfall in Lithuania could reach about 4000 nurses by 2032. Nurses are essential to maintaining patients, doctors and healthcare system safety during crises. This master’s thesis examines nurses’ preparedness for emergency situations in Lithuania, drawing on lessons from COVID-19 pandemic and international literature. The study’s aim is to assess preparedness among nurses working across primary, secondary and tertiary care and to identify pandemic-acquired skills and competences that can be integrated into preparedness models. A mixed-method design was used: 20 semi-structured interviews and an anonymous survey completed by 449 nurses. Qualitative data were analysed using content analysis; quantitative data were summarized with descriptive statistics. Key recommendations include: § the Ministry of Health should make emergency-preparedness training a mandatory part of continuing professional development for nurses; establish a nationwide specialized psychological support hotline for nurses in Lithuania; and organize practical preparedness bootcamps § municipalities should strengthen community health literacy on the emergency preparedness and run public practical trainings sessions with the healthcare staff. Keywords. Nurses. Emergency preparedness. COVID-19. Psychological support. Health literacy. Competencies. |
