Nonclinical core competencies and effects of interprofessional teamwork in disaster and emergency response training and practice: a pilot study.
OBJECTIVE
To define and delineate the nontechnical core competencies required for disaster response, Disaster Medical Assistance Team (DMAT) members were interviewed regarding their perspectives and experiences in disaster management. Also explored was the relationship between nontechnical competencies and interprofessional collaboration.


METHODS
In-depth interviews were conducted with 10 Canadian DMAT members to explore how they viewed nontechnical core competencies and how their experiences influenced their perceptions toward interprofessonalism in disaster response. Data were examined using thematic analysis.


RESULTS
Nontechnical core competencies were categorized under austere skills, interpersonal skills, and cognitive skills. Research participants defined interprofessionalism and discussed the importance of specific nontechnical core competencies to interprofessional collaboration.


CONCLUSIONS
The findings of this study established a connection between nontechnical core competencies and interprofessional collaboration in DMAT activities. It also provided preliminary insights into the importance of context in developing an evidence base for competency training in disaster response and management. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2013;0:1-8).
Continuing Education and Professional Development, Toronto.
Jennifer
J
Peller
Brian
B
Schwartz
Simon
S
Kitto
D002170:Canada; D003299:Cooperative Behavior; D004190:Disasters; D060731:Emergency Responders; D006801:Humans; D007400:Interprofessional Relations; D011361:Professional Competence; D036301:Qualitative Research