Hospital Planning and Response to Sudden Mass Casualty Incidents

Abstract

Previously in this manual, I discussed the difference between progressive disasters and sudden events and the importance of a specific plan that addresses both types separately.

This chapter focuses on preparedness of the hospital and describes in detail all components of a hospital plan that is specific for an SMCI.

Acute augmentation of the hospital capacity to manage a large number of injured patients simultaneously is a challenging undertaking. The following will concentrate on how to sharply make more beds, how to staff them, how to deploy additional equipment and supplies, and, most importantly, how to synchronize all tasks into one well-oiled machine.

Finally, this section will also address the interaction with families and media.