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Voices from the quake zone: a qualitative analysis of Singapore nurses’ deployment experience in a WHO-Type-1 fixed emergency medical team

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: With the increasing prevalence and complexity of disasters globally, it is essential to have well-prepared Emergency Medical Teams (EMTs) in place. Nurses play a crucial role within these teams, a role made more demanding in disaster settings due to the unique clinical, operational and psychological challenges. This study aimed to explore the experiences of Singapore’s Emergency Medical Team (SGEMT) nurses before, during and after their first deployment to Mandalay, Myanmar in April 2025. METHODS: This study adopted a descriptive qualitative research design to collect data. A purposive sampling method was used, and semi-structured virtual interviews were conducted within six weeks post-deployment. All ten nurses involved in SGEMT’s maiden deployment were interviewed. Inductive thematic analysis was conducted, which included analysing transcripts, extracting key sentences, deriving keywords, and identifying codes and sub-themes. A collaborative discussion was conducted to finalise the main themes. RESULTS: The analysis revealed four key categories: (a) preparedness and training, (b) clinical role adaptation and flexibility, (c) team dynamics and peer support and (d) attitudes towards humanitarian work. Findings indicated that nurses’ preparedness extended beyond clinical training to include logistical coordination, teamwork, and emotional readiness. Team-based simulation and cross-training were associated with increased confidence and adaptability, while peer support strengthened resilience. However, gaps were identified in environmental awareness, role clarity, and ethical preparedness. CONCLUSION: This study found that while experiential training strengthened nurses’ confidence and teamwork during EMT deployment, gaps remained in environmental preparedness, role clarity, and ethical support. Nurses relied on adaptability, peer support, and trust in leadership to manage clinical, logistical, and emotional challenges, indicating the need for broader preparation beyond clinical skills in future EMT deployments.

Source: BMC Emergency Medicine

DOI: 10.1186/s12873-026-01502-1

Authors: Farzana Shariq Mujtaba, Biwei Cai, Nurhafizah Binte Mohamed Alifi, Nurul Radiah Binte Mohd Salleh, Shu Fang Ho

Institutions: KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore General Hospital, Changi General Hospital, SingHealth

Language: English

Topic: Disaster Response and Management

Subfield: Emergency Medical Services

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,790