J Educ Res Nurs. Ahead of Print: JERN-20688 | DOI: 10.14744/jern.2025.20688

Earthquake Preparedness Recommendations from Frontline Nurses and Rescuers in the 2023 Türkiye Earthquake: A Grounded Theory Study

Aylin Akça Sümengen¹, Volkan Ayaz², Işıl Işık², Çağla Ünal^2
1University of Alabama Capstone College of Nursing, Tuscaloosa, USA
²Department of Nursing, Yeditepe University Faculty of Health Science, İstanbul, Türkiye

Background: Two powerful earthquakes, measuring 7.8 and 7.6 in magnitude, struck Türkiye on February 6, 2023, causing widespread devastation and significant loss of life across 11 provinces. In the aftermath of such disasters, a well-coordinated, rapid, and accessible emergency response is critical. However, the well-being of rescuers, an essential factor that significantly impacts their performance, is often overlooked, despite its crucial role in disaster search and rescue operations. Addressing these challenges is vital for enhancing the effectiveness of disaster management and saving more lives.

Aim: This study aims to identify the problems faced during rescue operations in order to improve disaster response and prevention efforts in Türkiye, a country prone to earthquakes. It also seeks to enhance healthcare services, nursing care, and disaster preparedness among healthcare workers, nurses, and the broader society.

Methods: A cross-sectional study design was employed, using Grounded Theory methodology. The sample consisted of 19 participants selected from among healthcare workers and search-and-rescue teams. Data were collected through online meetings conducted via Google Meet. Participants responded to a semi-structured questionnaire comprising 16 open-ended questions related to their personal backgrounds and earthquake experiences. Data were analyzed using content analysis with the support of the MAXQDA software.

Results: A total of 19 individuals, twelve females and seven males, participated in the study. Four main themes and ten associated codes were identified. The main themes were: (i) Scale of the Disaster, (ii) Challenges During the Disaster Response, (iii) Life After Returning from the Disaster Area, and (iv) Preparedness for Future Disasters. Through interviews conducted using the Grounded Theory method, a conceptual framework titled “Frontline Rescuer's Resilience Against Disasters” was developed based on participants' responses. This framework synthesizes elements from various theories, including Post-Traumatic Growth, Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, and stress response theory.

Conclusion: Search and rescue training should be provided to healthcare workers, nurses, and the general public, with a particular emphasis on building resilience in the face of disasters. Additionally, small, localized teams should be formed to plan and prepare for future disasters at the regional level. Policymakers should develop and enforce targeted legislative actions aimed at implementing preventive policies.

Keywords: Disaster, disaster management and organization, disaster resilience, earthquake, Grounded Theory, search-and-rescue

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