Relationship between disaster preparedness perception, self‐efficacy, and psychological capital among Turkish nurses

Abstract Background Although disasters continue to increase all over the world and international nursing organizations warn nurses to be ready for disasters, it is stated that the training of nurses for disasters is inadequate in Turkey as in many countries, and studies on this subject are limited Aim This study aimed to explore the relationship between disaster preparedness perception, self‐efficacy, and psychological capital among Turkish nurses. Methods This cross‐sectional study was conducted with 270 nurses working at a university hospital in Turkey from May 2023 to December 2023. Results The mean Disaster Preparedness Perception Scale, General Self‐Efficacy Scale, and Psychological Capital Questionnaire scores of the nurses were 73.19 ± 11.06, 31.24 ± 3.89, and 98.05 ± 11.35, respectively. According to linear regression analysis, self‐efficacy, psychological capital, receiving disaster training, and being exposed to disaster were significant predictive factors that affected disaster preparedness perception. Conclusion To improve nurses' disaster preparedness, it is vital to strengthen their self‐efficacy and psychological capital through various strategies. Implications for nursing policy Managers should identify individual and organizational barriers that affect nurses' readiness for disasters, prepare nurses for all stages of disaster management through continuous training, scenario‐based simulation exercises and drills, and create a disaster management culture in the organization.