Enhancing primary healthcare nurses' preparedness for climate-induced extreme weather events.

BACKGROUND

Climate Change is causing frequent and sever extreme weather events globally, impacting human health and well-being. Primary healthcare (PHC) nurses' are at the forefront of addressing these challenges and must be prepared.

PURPOSE

This scoping revieww explored literature on the preparedness of the PHC nursing workforce for extreme weather events and identify gaps in knowledge and practice.

METHODS

Using Arksey and O'Malley's framework, a comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, CINHAL, Web of Sciences, and ProQuest, on studies from 2014-2024, addressing PHC nurses' preparedness.

DISCUSSION

Nine studies were identified and highlighted a need for preparedness training and facility-based preparedness plans. Key themes included prioritizing regional networks, clinical leadership, service delivery, health information, health workforce, medical products and technologies, and financing.

CONCLUSION

Strengthening PHC nurses' resilience against extreme weather requires targeted professional development, mental health support, comprehensive planning, and collaborative efforts. Future strategies should enhance PHC nurses' capacity through training, support, and policy development.