Disaster in Franklin County
Shardae M. Crawley
Western Governors University
SZT 1
December 24, 2013

Running Head: DISASTER IN FRANKLIN
Disaster in Franklin County In the event of a disaster, such as the one presented in the online simulation, the community relies upon public health personnel to evaluate the needs of the community, provide reliable information, and access to available resources. Public health personnel focus on the safety and well being of individuals within the community, as well as potential long term issues that may arise, as a result of disaster. It is essential that local health workers are trained to address any issues the community may face, so that they can function properly in the event that something may happen. In order to facilitate effective action, the roles of major public health personnel must be delegated properly in disaster situations. Those in the public health department were responsible for ensuring that the citizens of Franklin County had all the basic necessities needed such as clean water, shelter, food, and medications. They also informed the public on how to obtain help, and possible health/hazard concerns the community may be facing. The public health nurse functions to assure the needs and concerns are met within their scope of practice, by utilization of their assessment skills. The public health nurse also communicates and collaborates with other local health personnel to mobilize available resources required during a disaster. In this simulation, the public health nurse conducted door-to-door interviews of the residents to access their health and safety needs as well as provide immediate assistance. They educated the public not to drink contaminated water or eat spoiled food. The public health personnel coordinated social services, transportation needs, volunteers, as well as outside assistance. In the