Managing a mass casualty, lessons learned

Mass casualty incidents (MCIs) strain available healthcare resources requiring unusual actions. Within a trauma system, hospitals receiving patients from an MCI have a defined key role in the care of the casualties and their preparedness is critical for patient outcome. The aim of this review is to address recent relevant literature to highlight important elements necessary for an adequate hospital response to an MCI.

That disaster preparedness is a prerequisite for success during an MCI is undisputable. Key components in the hospital response to an MCI like triage, communication, leadership, security, and surge capacity are areas that still need attention. There has been an increased focus on optimal treatment of children and their families, and the psychosocial support for patients and staff involved.

The complexity and unpredictability of MCIs demands a predefined strategy within every hospital. This strategy should include increased attention to the specific needs for children, physical security and psychological support but not at the expense of frequent training of staff. Involvement of dedicated clinical leadership both during disaster preparedness planning, training and during actual MCIs is irreplaceable.