Current global scenario and challenges in nursing during disasters

Disasters, whether natural, technological or caused by human conflict, present significant challenges for health systems around the world, requiring a coordinated and effective response. Nursing plays a crucial role in mitigating the impacts of these events, contributing to prevention, response and recovery. In the current global scenario, marked by climate change, pandemics, geopolitical conflicts and socio-economic inequalities, the challenges faced by nurses have become more complex and multifaceted. Among the main obstacles are the lack of specific training in disaster management, the shortage of human and material resources, and the physical and emotional pressure faced by nurses in crisis scenarios. In addition, the need to adapt care to the cultural diversities and precarious health conditions of affected populations underlines the importance of a family-centered approach. This article explores the role of nurses in disaster response, analyzing challenges and proposing evidence-based strategies to improve preparedness and resilience. Greater integration of global policies, specialized training programs and emotional support systems is key to strengthening nursing’s ability to respond effectively to disasters in the contemporary context.