Studying the Preparedness of Selected Hospitals in Tehran in the Face of Natural Disasters and Accidents

Abstract

Background: Iran is one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world, with disasters caused by various natural and man-made hazards. Objectives: Given that hospitals play an important role in treating disaster victims, this study aimed to investigate the level of preparedness of selected military hospitals in Tehran in crisis situations. Methods: This study is cross-sectional, and the research population included selected military hospitals using the standard tool for hospital preparedness in the face of natural disasters across 17 dimensions. Results: Of the total 17 dimensions examined in selected military hospitals, the level of preparedness of Hospital A was assessed at a "good" level with 68.55% preparedness, hospital B at a "medium" level with 55.55%, and hospitals C and D with poor preparedness of 39.88% and 37.77%, respectively. The highest preparedness was observed in the areas of safety, capacity building, and cultural considerations, while the lowest was in the areas of triage and post-disaster recovery. Conclusions: Comprehensive planning and strengthening of weaknesses in disaster management and recovery are essential for hospitals. This includes the phases of anticipation, relief, and reconstruction. Hospitals should focus on strengthening triage and disaster recovery programs and training staff.