Introduction: The term "Disaster" refers to an unexpected and undesirable event. Healthcare facilities face a range of challenges, varying in both nature and severity. To effectively manage such critical situations, healthcare centers need to have well-defined guidelines and protocols in place.This integrative review aims to create a comprehensive conceptual framework that outlines hospital preparedness during Disasters.
Methods: This study employed an integrative review design, following Whittemore's five-stage framework: problem identification, literature search, data evaluation, data analysis, and data presentation. The search terms included "disaster preparedness," "crisis," "emergency response," and "hospital preparedness." Databases searched were PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and others, covering literature from January 1993 to August 2021. Studies in English or Persian, including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods, were included. Methodological quality was assessed using specific tools for each study type, and all included studies were rated as high quality.
Results: The study involved a thematic analysis of 25 articles, including 21 quantitative studies, two qualitative studies, and two mixed-method studies. From this analysis, the central theme of Hospital Preparedness in Response to Disaster emerged. The key concepts related to this theme were systematically examined and categorized into four principal groups: Command and Control, Management of Support and Procurement, Communications, and Ethical and Legal Considerations. These groups represent the essential components necessary for effective crisis management within healthcare institutions.
Conclusion: Hospitals must be prepared for Disasters.  The results of our study suggest a comprehensive model that focuses on Command and Control, Support and Procurement Management, Communications, and Ethical and Legal aspects. Further research is necessary to identify practical solutions for various crisis scenarios and enhance hospital preparedness.