LAUSR

BACKGROUND Biological hazards such as epidemic, pandemic, and bioterrorism are the most probable types of emergencies and disasters, which cause a high rate of mortality and morbidity. Hospitals have an important role in reducing the consequences of biological hazards. Given this, we set out the present study to design a model for managing biological hazards in hospitals. METHODS A qualitative content analysis study was performed using in-depth semistructured interviews with 40 experts. We selected participants through purposeful sampling; also, we interviewed experienced experts, policy makers, and managers in the field of hospital management regarding biological hazards. The study setting was Iran Ministry of Health and hospitals as well as other relevant organizations responsible for hospital management in biological hazards. We analyzed the data concurrently using the method recommended by Graneheim and Lundman. RESULTS After collecting and analyzing the data obtained from the interviews, we extracted the dimensions of our model in the form of four themes, including mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. CONCLUSION Based on the results of the present study, we believe that a comprehensive and practical model for hospital preparedness regarding management of biological hazards is essential. The model of hospital preparedness in biological hazards leads to an effective response and reduces the physical, psychological, social, and economic consequences of biological hazards.