Evaluating Changes in Disaster Preparedness Awareness among Nursing Students in Japan: Insights after Three Years of Nursing Education

Background: Disaster preparedness is a critical aspect of nursing education, enhancing students’ ability to respond effectively in emergencies. However, the extent to which nursing curricula influence disaster preparedness awareness remains underexplored. Our study found that 39% of students reported improved awareness after three years, highlighting the need for targeted curriculum enhancements. Purpose: To evaluate changes in disaster preparedness awareness among nursing students over three years of education and identify gaps in current curricula impacting this awareness. Results: Findings indicate that while 39% of students showed improved awareness, significant gaps remain, suggesting the need for a dedicated course on emergency preparedness. Conclusions: This study emphasizes the importance of integrating comprehensive disaster preparedness education within nursing curricula to address these gaps and foster resilience in future healthcare professionals.