A systems approach to the management of radiation accidents

Journal Article · Sun Jun 01 04:00:00 EDT 1980 · Ann. Emerg. Med.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/S0196-0644(80)80063-1· OSTI ID:5171404

Richter, L L; Berk, H W; Teates, C D; Larkham, N E; Friesen, E J; Edlich, R F

Management of radiation accident patients should have a multidisciplinary approach that includes all health professionals as well as members of public safety agencies. Emergency plans for radiation accidents include detection of the ionizing radiation, patient evacuation, resuscitation, and decontamination. The resuscitated patient should be transported to a radiation control area located outside but adjacent to the emergency department. Ideally this area is accessed through an entrance separate from that used for the main flow of daily emergency department patients. The hospital staff, provided with protective clothing, dosimeters, and preprinted guidelines, continues the resuscitation and definitive care of the patient. This system approach to the management of radiation accidents may be tailored to meet the specific needs of other emergency medical systems.

• Research Organization: Univ. of Virginia Medical Center, Charlottesville
• OSTI ID: 5171404
• Journal Information: Ann. Emerg. Med.; (United States), Journal Name: Ann. Emerg. Med.; (United States) Vol. 9:6; ISSN AEMED
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

560151 -- Radiation Effects on Animals-- Man
570000* -- Health & Safety
63 RADIATION, THERMAL, AND OTHER ENVIRON. POLLUTANT EFFECTS ON LIVING ORGS. AND BIOL. MAT.
99 GENERAL AND MISCELLANEOUS
ACCIDENTS
BUILDINGS
CLEANING
CONTROLLED AREAS
DECONTAMINATION
EMERGENCY PLANS
HOSPITALS
IONIZING RADIATIONS
MEDICAL CENTERS
MEDICAL PERSONNEL
PATIENTS
PERSONNEL
RADIATION ACCIDENTS
RADIATION PROTECTION
RADIATIONS
RADIOLOGICAL PERSONNEL
SYSTEMS ANALYSIS