Development of a disaster and emergency preparedness training model and assessment scale in midwifery

Aim: It is aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the disaster and emergency preparedness training model in midwifery and the scale developed independently of this training model. Methodology:The research was conducted at the Başakşehir Çam and Sakura City Hospital of the Turkish Ministry of Health between April 15, 2022, and November 30, 2023. A mixed-method approach was employed, involving a total of 1025 participants. Descriptive analyses of quantitative data were performed using the SPSS program, including Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), Roc Curve test, Cronbach's alpha, while Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was conducted with the AMOS program, and qualitative data were analyzed with the MAXQDA program. To determine the effectiveness of the training model, a quasi-experimental design was used; the experimental group received training, and pre- and post-tests as well as the developed scale were applied. Differences in results were examined using paired t-tests. Findings: In the scale development phase, a four-factor, 20-item scale was developed following EFA and CFA analyses. The scale's fit indices were in acceptable ranges; X2/df=1.92, p<.001, CFI=.915, TLI=.900, SRMR=.700, RMSEA= .069. Reliability coefficients for the scale were found to be α ≥ .74 across all dimensions and in general. The scale, based on ROC Curve analysis, was found to differentiate effectively at a score of 65 for sensitivity and specificity. When examining the difference between pre- and post-implementation test scores and scale scores of the training model, post-test scores were significantly higher than pre-test scores; t(37)=24.3, p<.001, d=5.69 and, t(37)=5.39, p<.001, d=0.79 respectively. Results:The Midwifery Disaster and Emergency Preparedness Scale is valid and reliable. The developed training model is effective. Keywords: Midwifery, disaster and emergency, training model, preparedness, scale