Dissertation
Implementation of a Training Program for Receiving and Decontamination of Patients Involved in HAZMAT Incidents at a VA Hospital
University of Iowa
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), University of Iowa
Spring 2025
Abstract
Background: The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) mandates that all VA hospitals with emergency services maintain a First Receivers Decontamination Program (FDRP) in accordance with VHA Directive 1051 (VHA Directive, 2016). This ensures that emergency department staff are trained and equipped to manage contaminated patients, safeguarding both patient and provider safety (VHA Directive, 2016). Purpose: The purpose of this project was to implement a structured HAZMAT training program for VA Emergency Department staff to improve preparedness and response to hazardous material incidents. Methods: Guided by the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) model, this quality improvement project was conducted in a Midwestern VA Emergency Department with the participation of emergency department nurses. A two-part training intervention was implemented: a self-paced PowerPoint module covering core HAZMAT response principles, followed by a hands-on, scenario-based simulation. Subject matter experts from Emergency Management provided instruction on new HAZMAT supplies. A formal Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) was developed. Pre- and post-intervention surveys using a 5-point Likert scale assessed changes in knowledge, PPE proficiency, and confidence. A post-training exam evaluated knowledge retention. Findings: Post-intervention data showed significant improvements in staff confidence and preparedness. Confidence in responding to chemical exposures rose from 31.25% to 78.57%, and recognition of hazardous substances improved by 30.36%. Awareness of available HAZMAT resources reached 100%, and knowledge of equipment location improved by 46.42%. Participants achieved an average post-test score of 80%. Discussion: The training program effectively increased staff preparedness, confidence, and competence in managing HAZMAT incidents. Simulation-based learning and interdisciplinary collaboration were key contributors to success. The creation of a formal Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) and ongoing training plans ensures program sustainability and promotes long-term emergency readiness within the VA Emergency Department.
Details
- Title: Subtitle
- Implementation of a Training Program for Receiving and Decontamination of Patients Involved in HAZMAT Incidents at a VA Hospital
- Creators
- Arielle Wolterman - University of Iowa
- Contributors
- Teresa Judge-Ellis (Chair) - University of Iowa
- Resource Type
- Dissertation
- Project Type
- Poster
- Degree Awarded
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), University of Iowa
- Degree in
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Date degree season
- Spring 2025
- Publisher
- University of Iowa
- Number of pages
- 1 page
- Copyright
- Copyright 2025 Arielle Wolterman
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- College of Nursing; Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects
- Record Identifier
- 9984841528602771
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