Crisis-Ready Nursing: Building Resilient Systems To Counteract Personal Protective Equipment Shortages

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed critical vulnerabilities in healthcare systems, particularly concerning personal protective equipment (PPE) shortages. This crisis highlighted the need for resilient systems to ensure adequate PPE supply and effective resource allocation. Nurses, as frontline healthcare workers, play a vital role in mitigating these challenges through advocacy, resource management, and adaptation to limited supplies. This review explores the impact of PPE shortages on nursing and healthcare systems, identifies economic and logistical barriers, and emphasizes the importance of building resilient supply chains. Additionally, innovations in sustainable PPE development and advancements in technology for resource allocation are discussed as key strategies to strengthen preparedness for future crises.