injuries and poisoning
Overview of Incidents Involving Mass Casualty Weapons
Preparedness
Preparedness efforts are crucial. Disaster plans are needed in hospitals and in the community, along with appropriate supplies and equipment, to respond to an incident. Disaster preparedness typically includes plans to bring in additional staff and to reassign resources (such as beds, operating rooms, and blood) from routine care to victims of the disaster. Supplies and equipment typically include designated decontamination areas with contained drainage, floor coverings and protective gear to minimize spread of contamination, and stockpiles of antidotes or formal arrangements to obtain them from other sources. Many hospitals regularly hold drills to help familiarize staff with disaster plans, including the location of written procedures, supplies, and equipment (particularly those for decontamination). 