The Impact of Psychological First Aid Training (RAPID-PFA) on Self-Efficacy, Perceived Competencies and Disaster Preparedness of Nursing Students in Tunisian Public Institutions: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

This article is an example of ‘Lessons from the Field’. Disasters and emergencies pose unique challenges for healthcare professionals, necessitating a robust response from the nursing community. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a Psychological First Aid (PFA) intervention based on the RAPID-PFA Model on the perceived competencies, disaster management readiness and self-efficacy of nursing students in public institutions in Tunisia. A quasi-experimental study was conducted among nursing students in public institutions in Tunisia, comprising an intervention group (N = 54) and a control group (N = 54). Based on international PFA guidelines, the educational intervention included a 6-h immersive workshop featuring role-playing exercises. Perceived competencies, self-efficacy and disaster preparedness levels were assessed using standardized instruments. Data were collected at four-time points: before, immediately after the training and 1 and 3 months post-intervention. Descriptive statistics, χ² tests and one-way and repeated-measures ANOVA were used to evaluate the training's impact. The study population had a mean age of 22, with no significant differences in sociodemographic characteristics between the intervention and control groups. The majority of students (96.3%) had received physical first aid training, but none had training in PFA. The intervention significantly improved perceived competencies, disaster preparedness, helping capacity and self-efficacy among the intervention group. These improvements were sustained across multiple follow-up points (1- and 3-months post-intervention). Effect sizes were substantial, indicating a strong impact on the training (Cohen's d ≥ 0.8). The findings highlight the crucial role of PFA training in preparing nursing students to respond effectively to the psychological needs of disaster survivors, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and efficient healthcare workforce.