Essential Elements
Each of these issues must be addressed in the overall plan. During a radiation disaster response the plan elements should be managed in a synchronized and coordinated fashion. While different activities outlined in the plan will begin and end at different times, the overall response should appear to move seamlessly through the essential elements.
1. Initial recognition and notification of the accident
2. Activation of the radiation disaster response plan
3. Establishment of the medical command structure
4. Initial survey of the accident site by emergency response personnel
5. Triage, resuscitation, and decontamination of victims
6. Medical stabilization at the accident site and victim transport to Emergency Departments
7. Emergency department reception of radiation exposure victims
8. Hospital evaluation and treatment of radiation exposure victims
9. Liaison with in-country public health officials and international health organizations
10. Public relations and media interaction
11. Data management and medical record keeping
12. Withdrawal of medical personnel from the radiation accident site
13. Responder debriefing
14. Planning for future responses
When preparing a new plan or reviewing an existing document, the planners should answer the questions listed with essential element. Background information about past experience is provided to help planners address each question.
