Aerospace nurses’ competencies in disaster situations: a scoping review

Abstract

Objective: to map the competencies of aerospace nurses in disaster situations. Method: a scoping review following the steps recommended by the JBI and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) checklist. The review was conducted in three phases by two independent reviewers, with blinding, and supported by a third reviewer to resolve disagreements. Selection was based on the analysis of titles, descriptors, and abstracts, with specific eligibility criteria, followed by the full-text reading. At the end of the selection phase, 37 publications were included. Results: the results highlighted the need for the development of technical skills, knowledge of flight physiology, familiarity with aeronautical emergency procedures, communication skills, leadership, and responsibilities in aircraft preparation. During transport, nurses perform patient history taking (anamnesis), physical examinations, patient monitoring, clinical procedures, and manage in-flight complications. After the flight, they conduct documentation, develop procedures, sanitize clinical equipment, and replenish consumable materials. Conclusion: given the complexity of aerospace nursing practices in disaster situations, it is essential for professionals to develop competencies to ensure safe and effective care. There is a need to develop technologies, regulatory frameworks, and legal provisions for legal support, as well as future studies to validate and deepen the mapped competencies.

Keywords

• Nursing
• Air Ambulances
• Science of Disaster
• Aerospace Medicine
• Emergencies
• Disaster Team