Effectiveness of ‘ReadyPA’ Emergency Preparedness Program in Rural Western Pennsylvania in the Event of a Prolonged Power Failure

DOI: 10.5176/2315-4330_WNC13.39

Authors: Dr. Cynthia K. Zidek, Dr. Edith West and Dr. Michele Crytzer

Abstract:
This article reports on a joint student and nurse educator project carried out in a rural county located in Pennsylvania, United States. The project identifies relevant literature and what actions residents and medical suppliers take in the community to ensure safety and welfare with use of electronic medical devices in the home setting. The descriptive research reveals a cause for concern in the event of a loss of electrical power lasting greater than 24 hours. The sample of rural residents is considered a vulnerable population within the US. This limited research has identified the need to include patients in the community when developing emergency preparedness plans.

Keywords: community emergency preparedness, home medical equipment, prolonged power failure, rural health, nursing education, vulnerable populations