A radiological dispersion device has detonated at a crowded outdoor festival, causing a mass casualty incident. Numerous victims are arriving at the hospital, prompting the activation of the emergency operations plan for a radiological event. Which of the following actions by the nursing staff are appropriate? Select all that apply.
- Stabilize clients presenting with life-threatening airway compromise or massive hemorrhage prior to initiating full decontamination procedures.Answer
- Set up the primary decontamination area external to the emergency department to maintain the safety of the hospital environment.Answer
- CDirect unlicensed assistive personnel to perform initial radiation screening and determine triage priority for the ambulatory victims.
- Carefully remove the victims' clothing and seal it in double-bagged, labeled hazardous waste containers to reduce exposure.Answer
- EDesignate a victim who has absent peripheral pulses, agonal breathing, and a severe open head wound for immediate surgical intervention.
- FTransfer the contaminated victims directly into airborne infection isolation rooms to prevent radiation spread throughout the hospital.
Answer
The correct actions include stabilizing critical airway and hemorrhage issues before full decontamination, establishing the decontamination area outside the facility, and removing and safely bagging victims' clothing.
In a radiological mass casualty event, the primary goals are to save salvageable lives and prevent secondary contamination. Stabilizing critical airway and hemorrhage issues takes precedence over complete decontamination. Establishing an external decontamination zone protects the hospital's operational integrity. Finally, removing and securing clothing eliminates the majority of external radioactive contamination.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Radiological Mass Casualty Incident Response and Triage