Effects of Earthquake on Children's Health and Responsibilities of Nurses

Abstract

Abstract

The earthquake, which is one of the natural disasters whose time cannot be determined and causes negative consequences such as the death of many living things, financial losses, and psychological problems, has great effects especially on children. Earthquake has many negative effects on children physically, socially and psychologically. Children have negative consequences such as sleep and eating problems due to fear and anxiety, lack of hygiene, deterioration in family earthquakes, disruption of squinting, drinking, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Apart from these, musculoskeletal system problems, respiratory problems, digestive system disorders are among the health problems that occur due to earthquakes. Every year, hundreds of children are affected by earthquakes in our country. Children are the future of a country and they are vulnerable to the events and people around them. Because they are vulnerable, their rights should be protected by adults. In order to maintain the sibling and family relations of the children affected by the earthquake, to continue their treatment and education; Professionals such as nurses, physicians, teachers, psychologists and physical therapists have great responsibilities. Nurses have important duties in the process of determining the physical, mental and social needs of children affected by the earthquake and meeting these needs. The aim of this study is to evaluate and compile the data on the effects of the earthquake on children's health and the responsibilities of nurses in reducing these effects, and to inform the interested reader about the situation of children being affected by the earthquake and the roles of nurses in reducing these effects. The fact that our country is an earthquake country and children are greatly affected by this situation has revealed the necessity of compiling this article.

Keywords: Child health; child mental health;  natural disaster; nursing