Module Handout 9

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Ateneo de Zamboanga University

College of Nursing
2nd Semester S.Y. 2023-2024
NCM 121
Disaster Nursing and Emergency Preparedness

Module Handout 9
Personnel Roles and Functions in Disaster Preparedness and Response Plans
A. Incident Commander:
• Leads and oversees the overall disaster response operation.
• Makes critical decisions, allocates resources, and ensures coordination between
different agencies.
• Typically, the highest-ranking official or designated individual with specialized
training.
B. Medical Command Physician:
• Oversees all medical operations during the disaster response.
• Manages medical personnel, establishes field hospitals, and coordinates disaster
healthcare needs.
• Possesses expertise in emergency medicine and disaster management.
C. Triage Officer:
• Quickly assesses and categorizes injured individuals based on the severity of their
injuries.
• Utilizes triage systems like START or Jump START to prioritize treatment and
evacuation.
• Requires training in emergency medical services and triage procedures.
D. Community Relations for Public Information Officer:
• Disseminates accurate and timely information to the public through various
channels.
• Manages media relations, addresses public concerns, and provides updates on the
disaster situation.
• Strong communication and media skills are essential.
E. NDRRMC National and Local Council:
• National agency tasked with coordinating disaster preparedness, response, and
recovery efforts.
• Local councils implement national plans at the regional and provincial levels.
• Provide resources, technical assistance, and guidance to affected areas.
F. Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC):
• Auxiliary humanitarian organization serving communities before, during, and after
disasters.
• Provides first aid, emergency relief supplies, shelters, and psychosocial support.
• Volunteers and trained personnel work alongside government agencies.

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G. National and Local Health Personnel:
• Play a crucial role in providing medical care, public health surveillance, and disease
prevention.
• Doctors, nurses, paramedics, and community health workers contribute to various
aspects of disaster response.
• Coordinate with the Medical Command Physician to ensure effective delivery of
healthcare services.
H. Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD):
• Leads the government's social protection and humanitarian assistance efforts during
disasters.
• Provides emergency food, shelter, financial assistance, and psychosocial support to
affected families.
• Coordinates with local government units and other agencies to ensure efficient aid
distribution.
I. Civil Society Organizations (CSOs):
• Non-governmental organizations and community-based groups complement
government efforts with specific expertise and resources.
• Provide diverse services like search and rescue, emergency shelter, sanitation, and
advocacy for vulnerable groups.
• Collaboration and coordination with government agencies are crucial for impactful
support.
J. Community Volunteers:
• Local residents with vital knowledge and skills can support disaster response efforts.
• Assist in search and rescue, evacuation, distribution of supplies, and community
outreach.
• Proper training and coordination with authorized personnel are essential for safety
and effectiveness.
K. PAGASA-DOST Weather Forecast:
• Monitors weather conditions, issues weather warnings, and provides critical
information for disaster preparedness and evacuation.
• Real-time updates and accurate forecasts are crucial for informed decision-making.
L. Center for Research on the Epidemiology of Disasters (CRED):
• Tracks and analyzes disaster data worldwide, providing insights into trends and
contributing factors.
• Reports and research inform preparedness strategies and improve disaster response
efforts.
M. Bureau of Quarantine:
• Monitors and prevents the spread of infectious diseases, particularly during and
after disasters.
• Implement measures like disease surveillance, vaccination campaigns, and
sanitation efforts.
• Collaboration with health agencies is crucial for ensuring public health safety.

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Effective disaster preparedness and response require the coordinated efforts of diverse
personnel, each with their specific roles and functions. Understanding these roles is crucial
for efficient collaboration, optimized resource allocation, and ultimately, a successful
response to any disaster. Stay informed, participate in your community's preparedness
efforts, and remember – we are all part of the solution!

Additional Resources:
• National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC):
[https://ndrrmc.gov.ph/]
• Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC): [https://www.redcross.org.ph/]
• Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD):
[https://www.dswd.gov.ph/]

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