Yasir Almukhlifi, Maher Alsulami, Abdullah Alharbi, Tafe Howsawi, Amal Hussain, Reema Alfageeh, Aseel Alzahrani, Eatedal Alshareef, Amal Salah, Rani Radey, Mohammed Sultan
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Introduction: Maintaining hospital functionality during and after earthquakes is essential for effective disaster response in seismically active regions. In the Middle East, hospital resilience is challenged by limited infrastructure investment, variable enforcement of safety regulations, and inconsistent preparedness planning.
Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted across nine databases (2009-2024), including EBSCO, Cochrane, PsycINFO, Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, Medline, EconLit, and Google Scholar. Studies were included if they assessed hospitals in the Middle East with comprehensive or partial seismic risk reduction programs. Three independent reviewers performed data extraction and quality appraisal using validated tools appropriate to study design.
Results: Five studies met the inclusion criteria. Hospitals with comprehensive seismic risk reduction programs, including structural retrofitting, disaster drills, surge capacity plans, and emergency communication protocols, demonstrated higher levels of functional continuity following earthquakes. In contrast, facilities lacking such measures reported structural damage, service disruptions, and patient evacuations. Mobile hospitals were identified as a promising adaptive strategy for mitigating overload in high-risk, resource-limited settings.
Conclusion: Comprehensive seismic preparedness programs enhance hospital functionality in earthquake-prone regions. These findings underscore the importance of integrated risk reduction strategies, cross-sector coordination, and sustained investment. Further research is needed to evaluate the comparative impact of preparedness levels using standardized functionality indicators, and to explore scalable innovations such as mobile and modular healthcare units to strengthen regional disaster resilience.
在地震活跃地区，维持医院在地震中和地震后的功能对于有效地应对灾害至关重要。在中东，医院的复原力受到基础设施投资有限、安全法规执行情况不一以及防范规划不一致的挑战。方法：对EBSCO、Cochrane、PsycINFO、Scopus、Web of Science、PubMed、Medline、EconLit、谷歌Scholar等9个数据库（2009-2024）进行系统文献综述。如果研究评估的是中东地区实施全面或部分减少地震风险项目的医院，则纳入研究。三名独立审稿人使用适合研究设计的有效工具进行数据提取和质量评估。结果：5项研究符合纳入标准。拥有全面的地震风险降低计划的医院，包括结构改造、灾害演练、应急能力计划和应急通信协议，在地震后显示出更高水平的功能连续性。相比之下，缺乏此类措施的设施报告了结构损坏、服务中断和患者撤离。在高风险、资源有限的环境中，流动医院被认为是一种很有前景的适应性策略，可以缓解超负荷的情况。结论：综合防震方案提高了地震多发地区医院的功能。这些发现强调了综合降低风险战略、跨部门协调和持续投资的重要性。需要进一步研究，利用标准化的功能指标评估备灾水平的相对影响，并探索可扩展的创新，如移动和模块化医疗保健单位，以加强区域抗灾能力。
期刊介绍：
The aim of the journal is to bring to light the various clinical advancements and research developments attained over the world and thus help the specialty forge ahead. It is directed towards physicians and medical personnel undergoing training or working within the field of Emergency Medicine. Medical students who are interested in pursuing a career in Emergency Medicine will also benefit from the journal. This is particularly useful for trainees in countries where the specialty is still in its infancy. Disciplines covered will include interesting clinical cases, the latest evidence-based practice and research developments in Emergency medicine including emergency pediatrics.
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