Nuclear or Radiological Terrorism, Rapid Response to 01
Nuclear or Radiological Terrorism, Rapid Response to 01 : Focusing Preparedness Activities: Rapid response to nuclear or radiological terrorism is crucial. Without special preparation at the local and state levels, a large-scale attack involving radiation could overwhelm the local and perhaps national public health infrastructure. Large numbers of patients, including both the injured and those concerned about potential exposure would seek medical attention, with a corresponding need for medical supplies, diagnostic tests, hospital beds, and information and reassurance. In addition, the medical services delivery system might become quickly disabled if provider facilities, equipment and personnel become significantly contaminated. First responders, hospitals and the Emergency Medical System are generally responsible for ensuring that the contaminated, injured, and those concerned about potential exposure are medically treated in an efficient manner. The potential for alarm and major disruption of everyday life is enormous because of a widespread fear of such an unknown agent as radiation. Preparedness for radiological terrorism is an essential component of the U.S. public health surveillance and response system, which is designed to protect the population against any unusual public health event. However, hospitals and public health agencies should prepare for the unique features of radiological terrorism, such as mass casualties with blast injuries combined with burns, radioactive contamination, and acute radiation syndrome
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