Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary Prevention Levels
Water Supply
At the level of primary prevention in Haiti, it would have been useful to ensure a safe water supply. Water quality has suffered significantly after the earthquake, and nurses are the intermediaries between medicine and humanity, which obliges them to care for people and their lives. Providing information on the current state of events, particularly emphasizing the importance of maintaining water hygiene, utilizing water purification products, and the significance of drinking safely purified water, helps prevent the spread of many diseases (Keen et al., 2020).
Psychological Support and Rehabilitation
Psychological assistance would be helpful at the secondary prevention level. Survivors of traumatic experiences need support from qualified individuals to avoid stress and restore mental health. At the third level, rehabilitation for physical victims would be helpful to help them recover and integrate into society. This could include both physiotherapy to recover from musculoskeletal injuries and social support, such as finding new jobs or homes.
Preparation to Prevention
Each of the precautionary measures relates to different phases of the catastrophe. The first measure to prepare drinking water should be taken before a disaster occurs. Such measures will ensure that the most dangerous consequences are avoided. The second preventive measure refers to the phase immediately following the disaster, when quick action is taken to reduce the spread of possible diseases or complications. The last stage is important for further controlling the situation; it continues after the disaster is over and ensures the recovery of the victims.
These three phases were chosen because they cover preventive, rapid response, mitigation, and subsequent recovery measures. Tactical planning and adhering to the plan are crucial in minimizing disaster consequences (Keen et al., 2020). Only a system of these three measures is a comprehensive and practical approach to disaster management.
Roles of Organisations in Preventive Measures
Working with local volunteer organisations and international medical organisations would be of great help in the event of a similar disaster. Volunteer organisations could provide additional medical staff or resources in crises. Their volunteer-based nature makes them open and able to help. International medical missions, such as those led by the Red Cross, could help provide essential medicines, clean drinking water, and evacuation routes.
References
Keen, P. K. K., Gilkey, R. W., & Baker, E. N. (2020). Crisis Leadership—From the Haiti earthquake to the COVID pandemic. Journal of Public Health Management and Practice, 26(5), 503–505. Web.