Nuclear or Radiological Terrorism, Rapid Response to 13
Nuclear or Radiological Terrorism, Rapid Response to 13 : (3) Patient Management 5: Patient Mental Health Concerns: (a) A mass casualty event involving radiation has the potential to yield a large number of psychological casualties. (a-1) The majority of these will not have severe psychiatric conditions that result from the incident. The initial reaction of many is one of shock, immobilization and fear. Most people will exhibit higher levels of anxiety rather than psychotic behavior; some will also experience Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Concern and anxiety are natural reactions to the uncertainty associated with a radiological incident (10). Also, many people will come to the hospital for fear of loss of access to mental health medications. (a-2) It is probable that family members will attempt to gather information about other family members who are experiencing heightened anxiety and have sought medical attention. Hospitals should dedicate space in the facility and a phone number (if possible) to keep family members informed. (b) Long-term psychological effects, which could arise from 48 to 72 hours after the incident and from then on for several months, include anxiety disorders, PTSD, depression, traumatic neurosis, insomnia, and acute stress disorder. 1 Tubes for blood collection and testing are standardized by the color of the rubber stopper placed in each. The different stopper colors refer to the additives placed in each tube (these additives are necessary to preserve the appropriate blood product for different blood tests). A purple tube top contains (K3) EDTA as a preservative for whole blood. (c) It is very important to distinguish between those concerned about potential exposure and people who have a non-incident-based psychological dysfunction. (d) Since the situation is frightening to most people, hospitals should be proactive in reassurance and communication to reduce psychological issues. Hospitals should: (d-1) Dispense timely and accurate information, including an accurate description of the incident and its location to the public. This will allow them to take appropriate actions before they come to the hospital. (d-2) Counsel patients on both acute and potential long-term physical and psychological effects. Include this information in patient discharge sheets. (e) Hospitals also should ensure that trained counselors are on site, and screen persons who may be at higher risk for PTSD (i.e., people who have been previously traumatized or have been in other disasters). These individuals will require follow-up. (e-1) Dedicate a lead person responsible for the counselors. (e-2) Provide radiological education/training for the staff performing the psychological evaluations and counseling. Staff who cannot function in times of high stress should not be assigned to these duties
No records Found