Climate change: nursing leadership in disaster situations

Abstract

Climatic conditions are challenging, especially when combined with other factors, such as geographical conditions. Nurses play a vital role in disaster preparedness and response, directly influencing their organization and effectiveness. However, scientific evidence still struggles to define clearly the specific knowledge and skills nurses should possess when leading in disaster situations. The central theme of this editorial aims to contribute to reflection on the recognition of the competencies of nurses who work in these situations. To analyze this topic, we focused on a particular case of an island in the Azores archipelago. Data was collected through a documentary analysis of the Azores Regional Civil Protection Emergency Plan, the Ponta Delgada Municipal Civil Protection Emergency Plan and the Hospital External Emergency Plan, seeking to obtain in-depth knowledge of the available information.