Mass-casualty, terrorist bombings: implications for emergency department and hospital emergency response (Part II)

Prehosp Disaster Med. 2003 Jul-Sep;18(3):235-41. doi: 10.1017/s1049023x00001102.

Abstract

This article reviews the implications of mass-casualty, terrorist bombings for emergency department (ED) and hospital emergency responses. Several practical issues are considered, including the performance of a preliminary needs assessment, the mobilization of human and material resources, the use of personal protective equipment, the organization and performance of triage, the management of explosion-specific injuries, the organization of patient flow through the ED, and the efficient determination of patient disposition. As long as terrorists use explosions to achieve their goals, mass-casualty, terrorist bombings remain a required focus for hospital emergency planning and preparedness.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Emergency Medical Services
  • Emergency Service, Hospital / organization & administration*
  • Health Workforce
  • Humans
  • Protective Devices
  • Terrorism*
  • Triage
  • Wounds and Injuries / therapy*