Abstract:
The present study aimed at analyzing and synthesizing research-based evidence on earthquake preparedness plans. The PICO Framework was used in the search for research articles published in English between 2002 and 2012. The evaluation criteria of Polit and Beck (2004) were used to assess the quality of research, and the criteria of Melnyk and Fineout-Overholt (2005) were used to determine the levels of evidence. Of the total 24 studies selected, one was a non-randomized controlled trial, tree were qualitative studies, ten were descriptive studies, and ten experts opinion papers. After analyzed, each was evidence data were extracted and synthesized into three main items in regard to earthquake preparedness; The earthquake preparedness plan should be divided into three phases: 1) pre earthquake phase focusing on earth quake preparedness plan development and earthquake drill as well as preparation of necessary equipment and personnel. 2) Earthquake phase preparing for an emergency medical situation and get within 24-72 hours and the MASS Triage Model is used to screen a large number of injured victims in a short period of time; and 3) post earthquake phase focusing on short term and long term rehabilitation during this phase people in affected area should be promoted to get access to clean water supply, food and good sanitation. Respiration infection disease and gastrointestinal infection disease should be prevented, controlled and monitored. The findings of this study benefit the preparation for earthquakes. They can also be utilized as a guideline for dissemination of knowledge and context-specific research for the workplace.