Abstract

Natural and manmade disasters are occurring at an unprecedented rate. Injuries and sickness are among the most widespread types of suffering caused by disasters, making medical aid essential. However, medical response depends on multiple factors to be timely and effective. The process of building a competent international medical disaster relief organization is complex, yet many well-intentioned, charitable organizations react hastily after a disaster, sending medical teams without truly understanding what an effective response requires. Consequently, in their genuine effort to help, they may end up hindering the response effort more than helping. Meanwhile, successful organizations implement principles conducive to an effective response. This research identifies three key characteristics of success found in effective, well-established international medical disaster relief organizations. These characteristics are first, ensuring an official invitation has been extended and the need for assistance has been identified. Second, the response to that need is done in an effective and sustainable manner. Third, effective organizations strive to obtain high quality volunteers. By following these basic characteristics, organizations are likely to improve the efficiency and quality of their work.

Degree

MS

College and Department

Nursing; Nursing

Rights

http://lib.byu.edu/about/copyright/

Date Submitted

2017-04-01

Document Type

Thesis

Handle

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/etd9313

Keywords

international, foreign, medical, disaster, relief, response, team, volunteer, standard, organization

Language

english

Download

Included in

Nursing Commons

Share

COinS