(A341) Disaster! What about Me?

Abstract

Background

There is one important aspect of hospital preparedness for disaster that has so far received minimum attention. It has been taken for granted that medical staff know best how to take care of themselves and are well prepared personally when there is a call for disaster. However, the reality is far from what is expected, and many staff tend to keep their personal needs as a second priority when it comes to patient care, especially during disasters and mass casualties. They may not show it, however, while attending to their duties and managing casualties of disasters.

Discussion

Medical staff continue to have personal concern regarding their family, properties, personal safety and in some instances their own health as well. The medical staff are not the only one to blame, as other parties, including their employers are involved. This presentation will discuss causes and consequences of ill prepared medical staff personnel to disaster or Mass casualty, including a brief illustration of a mini survey that was conducted immediately following a hospital disaster drill. The presentation will also elaborate on developing staff personal response plans and kits that will contribute in reducing the burden of concern for their own family and them and indirectly may help increase their performance and productivity during disaster or mass casualty situations.