Hospital Response to Radiological Events – Part I

Objectives Identify types of radiological incidents Describe hazards and risks to hospital personnel from radiological events

Radiological and Nuclear Devices Simple radiological device Radiological dispersal device Reactor Improvised nuclear device Nuclear weapon

Do not print this slide. Chart only used for Note page.

Impacts of Radiological Events What is your risk of exposure or contamination while doing your duties? Simple exposure - for any reason Contaminated patient - for any reason Radiation dispersal (“Dirty bomb”) event Nuclear detonation

Simple Exposure Patient(s) likely to be ambulatory and worried −Not likely to present any radiation injury −Extreme case: Acute Radiation Syndrome No transferable contamination No radiation from patient or belongings −Extreme case: Materials with high neutron exposure might be radioactive No risk to care providers

Contaminated Patient May have transferable contamination −Patient, their clothes, and personal effects −Transport vehicle −ED and other facilities Internal contamination is risk to patient Some radiation from patient and/or belongings −Extreme case: High radiation source on/in patient Risk is relatively low to care providers

The “Dirty Bomb” Event Mass casualty incident −Many patients, varying types of injuries −Likely to include trauma −Self-referral and unusual transport means Some will have transferable contamination Risk is still low to moderate, but prolonged −Higher risk of secondary contamination

The “Nuke” Event Not a likely scenario Impact and response will be nationwide Possible damages to your facility/personnel −May require evacuation of hospital Your staff traumatized Radiation risk is secondary −Other aspects of treatment take priority

Mass Casualty Incident Disaster Planning Lessons Learned Hospitals provide most of the initial care High risk of secondary contamination Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required Disaster planning must address intentional CBRNE attack Maximize use of existing resources

Key Points Risk is low to EMS and hospital staff −But watch for secondary contamination Prepare for radiological events using all hazards approach