Learning Objective #1: Discuss the work of the International Nursing Coalition for Mass Casualty Education (INCMCE)

Learning Objective #2: Describe selected aspects and uses of the INCMCE curriculum

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The Vanderbilt University School of Nursing has taken a leadership role with the establishment of the International Nursing Coalition for Mass Casualty Education (INCMCE). This coalition consists of organizational representatives of schools, accrediting bodies, specialty organizations and governmental agencies interested in promoting mass casualty education for nurses. Several grants have been obtained to develop an online curriculum that addresses the competencies as developed by the INCMCE members for all nurses. (See www.incmce.org for further information..) Four of the six proposed modules are in development. The modules have been designed using the “How People Learn” framework, a format that was developed after a review of the educational literature sponsored by the National Research Council (USA). Using this format, each module begins with a challenge delivered in multimedia format, followed by questions that can be explored using a variety of references. A unique aspect of the reference section is that many testimonials from experts in the field can be accessed so that the learner can benefit from the experiences that most nurses lack in emergency response. Unfortunately, in today's world of terrorism and increased natural disasters, nurses in all countries need to be prepared to respond to “all hazards.” These modules will be posted on the INCMCE website as completed, and are available to nurses around the world.