Disaster anxiety and self-assistance behaviours among persons with cervical cord injury in Japan: a qualitative study

BMJ Open, 2016 · DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2015-009929 · Published: April 1, 2016

Spinal Cord Injury Trauma Research Methodology & Design

Simple Explanation

This study explores the anxiety related to disasters and the self-help strategies adopted by individuals with cervical cord injury (CCI) in Japan. The research highlights that individuals with CCI are more concerned about managing their health conditions, such as urinary and fecal control, pressure sores, and body temperature, during a disaster than immediate survival. The study identifies key measures for disaster preparedness, including storing essential items, securing a safe location, and ensuring access to reliable caregivers.

Study Duration

June to August 2014

Participants

16 persons with cervical cord injury

Evidence Level

Level IV, Qualitative study

Key Findings

1
Participants primarily worried about managing their health, specifically urinary and fecal control, pressure sores, and body temperature, in a disaster scenario.
2
Key disaster preparedness measures included storing necessary items (including for caregivers), staying in a safe place (home or pre-planned evacuation spot), and having reliable caregivers.
3
Past travel experiences, personal experiences of failure (e.g., incontinence), and information from peers influenced preparedness behaviors.

Research Summary

This qualitative study investigated disaster-related anxiety and self-assistance behaviors among individuals with cervical cord injury (CCI) in Japan. The study found that participants were primarily concerned about managing their health conditions during a disaster, leading to preparedness measures focused on storing needed items, staying in a safe place, and having reliable caregivers. The research highlights the importance of personal experiences, peer information, and travel in shaping disaster preparedness behaviors among individuals with CCI.

Practical Implications

Tailored Disaster Preparedness

Disaster preparedness plans should be tailored to address the specific health management needs (e.g., urinary and fecal control) of individuals with CCI.

Caregiver Support

Emergency planning should consider the needs of caregivers and ensure their availability and support during disasters.

Community Integration

Promote community integration and peer support networks to share experiences and encourage disaster preparedness among individuals with disabilities.

Study Limitations

1
The study only included participants with a high interest in disaster preparedness.
2
Triangulations with other populations were not performed.
3
The sampling and analysis procedures were not conducted in an epidemiological manner and most persons with CCI do not belong to such groups.

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