Explosives | Technical Resources | TRACIE
Planning for & responding to mass shootings: Resources for emergency medical professionals
In the wake of a mass shooting, like this week's tragedy in San Bernardino, being ready to quickly and effectively get people the care they need saves lives. If you are an emergency medical professional, check out these lessons learned, tools and promising practices that can help you plan for and respond to a mass shooting. Learn More >>
Topic Collection: Explosives (e.g., bomb, blast) and Mass Shooting
Research indicates that both the nature and outcome of terrorist attacks and mass shootings are shifting from incidents larger in scale committed by a group to smaller attacks committed by a “lone wolf” or a relatively smaller group of attackers. The resources in this Topic Collection highlight selected recent case studies, lessons learned, tools, and promising practices that can help emergency medical professionals plan for and respond to these changing mass shootings or explosive events.
Each resource in this Topic Collection is placed into one or more of the following categories (click on the category name to be taken directly to that set of resources). Resources marked with an asterisk (*) appear in more than one category.
Each resource in this Topic Collection is placed into one or more of the following categories (click on the category name to be taken directly to that set of resources). Resources marked with an asterisk (*) appear in more than one category.
Topic Collection (PDF - 341.8 KB)
Must Reads
American College of Emergency Physicians. (2014). Bombings: Injury Patterns and Care.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
This webpage includes numerous links to information on blast injuries. Links to related course curriculum are located at the bottom of the webpage.
This webpage includes numerous links to information on blast injuries. Links to related course curriculum are located at the bottom of the webpage.
Autrey, A., Hick, J., Bramer, K., et al. (2014). 3 Echo: Concept of Operations for Early Care and Evacuation of Victims of Mass Violence. (Abstract only.) Prehospital Disaster Medicine. 29(4):421-8.
The authors describe a three-phase approach first responders can use when responding to a blast or active shooter event: Enter, Evaluate, and Evacuate, or 3 Echo.
The authors describe a three-phase approach first responders can use when responding to a blast or active shooter event: Enter, Evaluate, and Evacuate, or 3 Echo.
Biddinger, P.D., Baggish, A., Harrington, L., et al. (2013). Be Prepared — The Boston Marathon and Mass-Casualty Events. New England Journal of Medicine. 368:1958-1960.
The authors explain how the Boston-area medical community's prior emergency preparedness efforts and related exercises and drills contributed to their response to the Boston Marathon bombing. The authors highlight the presence of medical tents, the mobilization of communications and additional resources, and the activation of hospital emergency plans as helpful contributing factors .
The authors explain how the Boston-area medical community's prior emergency preparedness efforts and related exercises and drills contributed to their response to the Boston Marathon bombing. The authors highlight the presence of medical tents, the mobilization of communications and additional resources, and the activation of hospital emergency plans as helpful contributing factors .
Callaway, D.W., Smith, E.R., Cain, J., et al. (2011). Tactical Emergency Casualty Care (TECC): Guidelines for the Provision of Prehospital Trauma Care in High Threat Environments. Journal of Special Operations Medicine. 11(3).
These guidelines were developed based on the principles of Tactical Combat Casualty Care but take into account variations in the civilian environment (e.g., resources allocation, different patient populations). The authors list the goals of Tactical Emergency Casualty Care and strategies for achieving those goals.
These guidelines were developed based on the principles of Tactical Combat Casualty Care but take into account variations in the civilian environment (e.g., resources allocation, different patient populations). The authors list the goals of Tactical Emergency Casualty Care and strategies for achieving those goals.
Frykberg, E. (2002). Medical Management of Disasters and Mass Casualties From Terrorist Bombings: How Can We Cope? Journal of Trauma. 53(2): 201-212.
The author examines past terrorist bombing events and provides a summary of triage, treatment, and resource utilization differences.
The author examines past terrorist bombing events and provides a summary of triage, treatment, and resource utilization differences.
Healthcare and Public Health Sector Critical Infrastructure Protection Partnership. (2015).Active Shooter Planning and Response in a Healthcare Setting.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of issues and response to active shooters in the healthcare environment and includes response plan templates in the appendix.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of issues and response to active shooters in the healthcare environment and includes response plan templates in the appendix.
Jacobs, L., McSwain, N., Rotondo, M., et al. (2013). Improving Survival from Active Shooter Events: The Hartford Consensus. The National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians.
The Hartford Consensus suggests that first responders to an active shooter scene should apply the actions in the acronym THREAT: 1) Threat suppression, 2) Hemorrhage control, 3) Rapid Extrication to safety, 4) Assessment by medical providers, and 5) Transport to definitive care.
The Hartford Consensus suggests that first responders to an active shooter scene should apply the actions in the acronym THREAT: 1) Threat suppression, 2) Hemorrhage control, 3) Rapid Extrication to safety, 4) Assessment by medical providers, and 5) Transport to definitive care.
King, D., Larentzakis, A., Ramly, A., et al. (2015). Tourniquet Use at the Boston Marathon Bombing: Lost in Translation. (Abstract only.) Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery. 78(3):594-9.
Every Boston Level 1 trauma center populated a database regarding specific injuries, extremities affected, prehospital interventions, and the like experienced by victims of the marathon bombings. The authors found that after the event, extremity exsanguination was either left alone or treated with an improvised tourniquet. The authors stress the need to share the military's approach to controlling severe extremity bleeding with "all civilian first responders."
Every Boston Level 1 trauma center populated a database regarding specific injuries, extremities affected, prehospital interventions, and the like experienced by victims of the marathon bombings. The authors found that after the event, extremity exsanguination was either left alone or treated with an improvised tourniquet. The authors stress the need to share the military's approach to controlling severe extremity bleeding with "all civilian first responders."
Smith, E.R. and Shapiro, G. (2012). Changing the Paradigm: Tactical Emergency Casualty Care Guidelines for High Risk Scenarios. Committee for Tactical Emergency Casualty Care.
This presentation takes participants through a blast injury scenario at a busy train station. The authors explain the differences between "traditional" attacks and the "new threat environment" (e.g., improvised explosives, lone wolf shooters) and strategies for related casualty care.
This presentation takes participants through a blast injury scenario at a busy train station. The authors explain the differences between "traditional" attacks and the "new threat environment" (e.g., improvised explosives, lone wolf shooters) and strategies for related casualty care.
The National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians. (2015). TCCC Guidelines and Curriculum.
The principles of Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) can also be applied by first responders when responding to bomb and mass shooting incidents. TCCC has three goals: 1) treat the casualty, 2) prevent additional casualties, and 3) complete the mission.
The principles of Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) can also be applied by first responders when responding to bomb and mass shooting incidents. TCCC has three goals: 1) treat the casualty, 2) prevent additional casualties, and 3) complete the mission.
Education and Training
* American College of Emergency Physicians. (2014). Bombings: Injury Patterns and Care.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
This webpage includes numerous links to information on blast injuries. Links to related course curriculum are located at the bottom of the webpage.
This webpage includes numerous links to information on blast injuries. Links to related course curriculum are located at the bottom of the webpage.
Autrey, A., Hick, J., Bramer, K., et al. (2014). 3 Echo: Concept of Operations for Early Care and Evacuation of Victims of Mass Violence. (Abstract only.) Prehospital Disaster Medicine. 29(4):421-8.
The authors describe a three-phase approach first responders can use when responding to a blast or active shooter event: Enter, Evaluate, and Evacuate, or 3 Echo.
The authors describe a three-phase approach first responders can use when responding to a blast or active shooter event: Enter, Evaluate, and Evacuate, or 3 Echo.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2008). Blast Injuries: What Clinicians Need to Know.
The speaker provides a brief overview for health care providers on how to respond and care for persons injured by an explosion or blast event.
The speaker provides a brief overview for health care providers on how to respond and care for persons injured by an explosion or blast event.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2010). Blast Injuries: Crush Injuries and Crush Syndrome.
The authors define crush injury and crush syndrome, which are two injuries that could result from a bombing or explosion. Operational strategies for prehospital and hospital care settings are included.
The authors define crush injury and crush syndrome, which are two injuries that could result from a bombing or explosion. Operational strategies for prehospital and hospital care settings are included.
Hansen, S. (2008). Mass Casualty Medical Command. (Requires free registration.) South Central Preparedness and Emergency Response Learning Center.
This course was designed for emergency responders caring for a large number patients after natural or human-caused incidents. Information on caring for patients exposed to chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, or explosive (CBRNE) agents is also provided.
This course was designed for emergency responders caring for a large number patients after natural or human-caused incidents. Information on caring for patients exposed to chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, or explosive (CBRNE) agents is also provided.
Los Angeles Sheriff's Department. (2015). Surviving an Active Shooter.
This video depicts active shooter scenarios and shares strategies for responding and surviving such events.
This video depicts active shooter scenarios and shares strategies for responding and surviving such events.
MESH Coalition. (2014). Responding to an Active Shooter in a Healthcare Setting.
This video provides information on preparing for and responding to an active shooter event in a healthcare setting.
This video provides information on preparing for and responding to an active shooter event in a healthcare setting.
* Tennessee Emergency Medical Services for Children. (2012). Preparing for Explosion and Blast Injuries.
This course can help healthcare professionals plan for and understand the terminology associated with explosive incidents. It also includes a section on pediatric patients.
This course can help healthcare professionals plan for and understand the terminology associated with explosive incidents. It also includes a section on pediatric patients.
The City of Houston Mayor’s Office of Public Safety and Homeland Security, Ready Houston.(2012). Run, Hide, Fight: Surviving an Active Shooter Event.
This video depicts active shooter scenarios and demonstrates how witnesses can increase their chances of survival.
This video depicts active shooter scenarios and demonstrates how witnesses can increase their chances of survival.
* The National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians. (2015). TCCC Guidelines and Curriculum.
The principles of Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) can also be applied by first responders when responding to bomb and mass shooting incidents. TCCC has three goals: 1) treat the casualty, 2) prevent additional casualties, and 3) complete the mission.
The principles of Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) can also be applied by first responders when responding to bomb and mass shooting incidents. TCCC has three goals: 1) treat the casualty, 2) prevent additional casualties, and 3) complete the mission.
University of Iowa, College of Public Health, Upper Midwest Preparedness and Emergency Response Learning Center. (2007). Emergency Medical Services Operations and Planning for Weapons of Mass Destruction. (Requires free registration.)
This course is geared towards emergency medical service personnel and features modules on biological, radiological, incendiary, and explosive weapons. Modules on pre- and hospital decontamination are also included.
This course is geared towards emergency medical service personnel and features modules on biological, radiological, incendiary, and explosive weapons. Modules on pre- and hospital decontamination are also included.
Guidance Documents
Callaway, D.W., Smith, E.R., Cain, J., et al. (2011). Tactical Emergency Casualty Care (TECC): Guidelines for the Provision of Prehospital Trauma Care in High Threat Environments. Journal of Special Operations Medicine. 11(3).
These guidelines were developed based on the principles of Tactical Combat Casualty Care but take into account variations in the civilian environment (e.g., resources allocation, different patient populations). The authors list the goals of Tactical Emergency Casualty Care and strategies for achieving those goals.
These guidelines were developed based on the principles of Tactical Combat Casualty Care but take into account variations in the civilian environment (e.g., resources allocation, different patient populations). The authors list the goals of Tactical Emergency Casualty Care and strategies for achieving those goals.
* Healthcare and Public Health Sector Critical Infrastructure Protection Partnership. (2015).Active Shooter Planning and Response in a Healthcare Setting.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of issues and response to active shooters in the healthcare environment and includes response plan templates in the appendix.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of issues and response to active shooters in the healthcare environment and includes response plan templates in the appendix.
Jacobs, L., McSwain, N., Rotondo, M., et al. (2013). Improving Survival from Active Shooter Events: The Hartford Consensus. The National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians.
The Hartford Consensus suggests that first responders to an active shooter scene should apply the actions in the acronym THREAT: 1) Threat suppression, 2) Hemorrhage control, 3) Rapid Extrication to safety, 4) Assessment by medical providers, and 5) Transport to definitive care.
The Hartford Consensus suggests that first responders to an active shooter scene should apply the actions in the acronym THREAT: 1) Threat suppression, 2) Hemorrhage control, 3) Rapid Extrication to safety, 4) Assessment by medical providers, and 5) Transport to definitive care.
Smith, E.R. and Delaney, J.B. (2013). A New Response: Supporting Paradigm Change in EMS’ Operational Medical Response to Active Shooter Events. Journal of Emergency Medical Services. 38(12): 48-50, 52, 54-5.
The authors emphasize the need for a paradigm shift in the emergency medical services field to accompany the changing nature of active shooter events.
The authors emphasize the need for a paradigm shift in the emergency medical services field to accompany the changing nature of active shooter events.
Smith, E.R. and Shapiro, G. (2012). Changing the Paradigm: Tactical Emergency Casualty Care Guidelines for High Risk Scenarios. Committee for Tactical Emergency Casualty Care.
This presentation takes participants through a blast injury scenario at a busy train station. The authors explain the differences between "traditional" attacks and the "new threat environment" (e.g., improvised explosives, lone wolf shooters) and strategies for related casualty care.
This presentation takes participants through a blast injury scenario at a busy train station. The authors explain the differences between "traditional" attacks and the "new threat environment" (e.g., improvised explosives, lone wolf shooters) and strategies for related casualty care.
* The National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians. (2015). TCCC Guidelines and Curriculum.
The principles of Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) can also be applied by first responders when responding to bomb and mass shooting incidents. TCCC has three goals: 1) treat the casualty, 2) prevent additional casualties, and 3) complete the mission.
The principles of Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) can also be applied by first responders when responding to bomb and mass shooting incidents. TCCC has three goals: 1) treat the casualty, 2) prevent additional casualties, and 3) complete the mission.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Federal Emergency Management Agency. (2014). Incorporating Active Shooter Incident Planning into Health Care Facility Emergency Operations Plans.
This document gives healthcare facility emergency planners, executive leadership, and others involved in emergency operations planning assistance with planning for active shooter incidents.
This document gives healthcare facility emergency planners, executive leadership, and others involved in emergency operations planning assistance with planning for active shooter incidents.
Lessons Learned
* Almogy, G. and Rivkind, A. (2005). Surgical Lessons Learned from Suicide Bombing Attacks. (Abstract only.) Journal of the American College of Surgeons. 202(2):313-319.
The authors combined an analysis of data contained in the Israeli National Trauma Registry with their firsthand experience caring for suicide bomb victims at the Hadassah University Hospital to provide an overview of lessons learned.
The authors combined an analysis of data contained in the Israeli National Trauma Registry with their firsthand experience caring for suicide bomb victims at the Hadassah University Hospital to provide an overview of lessons learned.
Biddinger, P.D., Baggish, A., Harrington, L., et al. (2013). Be Prepared — The Boston Marathon and Mass-Casualty Events. New England Journal of Medicine. 368:1958-1960.
The authors explain how the Boston-area medical community's prior emergency preparedness efforts and related exercises and drills contributed to their response to the Boston Marathon bombing. The authors highlight the presence of medical tents, the mobilization of communications and additional resources, and the activation of hospital emergency plans as helpful contributing factors .
The authors explain how the Boston-area medical community's prior emergency preparedness efforts and related exercises and drills contributed to their response to the Boston Marathon bombing. The authors highlight the presence of medical tents, the mobilization of communications and additional resources, and the activation of hospital emergency plans as helpful contributing factors .
Cassa, C., Chunara, R., Mandl, K., and Brownstein, J. (2013). Twitter as a Sentinel in Emergency Situations: Lessons from the Boston Marathon Explosions. PLoS Currents. (Revised 2013 Jul 2.).
The authors compared the timing of social media reports against information shared through official emergency response channels after the Boston Marathon bombing. They suggest that first response agencies and healthcare providers can monitor social media to better tailor their response to an incident.
The authors compared the timing of social media reports against information shared through official emergency response channels after the Boston Marathon bombing. They suggest that first response agencies and healthcare providers can monitor social media to better tailor their response to an incident.
Claassen, C., Kashner, T., Kashner, T., et al. (2011). Psychiatric Emergency "Surge Capacity" Following Acts of Terrorism and Mass Violence with High Media Impact: What is Required? (Abstract only.) General Hospital Psychiatry. 33(3):287-93.
The authors examined emergency psychiatric treatment-seeking emergency room visits in the weeks after four events (the Oklahoma City Bombing, the Columbine High School shooting, the Wedgewood Baptist Church shooting, and the 9/11 terrorist attacks). They found that in the week following each event, there was minimal change in the number of visits.
The authors examined emergency psychiatric treatment-seeking emergency room visits in the weeks after four events (the Oklahoma City Bombing, the Columbine High School shooting, the Wedgewood Baptist Church shooting, and the 9/11 terrorist attacks). They found that in the week following each event, there was minimal change in the number of visits.
Clements, B. (2013). Public Health Response to the Fertilizer Plant Explosion in West, Texas. University of Washington, Northwest Center for Public Health Practice.
The speakers in this webinar discuss lessons learned from public health and medical response to the fertilizer plant explosion on April 17, 2013 in West, Texas.
The speakers in this webinar discuss lessons learned from public health and medical response to the fertilizer plant explosion on April 17, 2013 in West, Texas.
Cole, L., Scott, S., Feravolo, M., and Lamba, S. (2014). Preparedness in America's Prime Danger Zone and at the Boston Marathon Bombing Site. (Abstract only.) American Journal of Disaster Medicine. 9(1):17-24.
The authors of this study compared medical response capabilities for critical incidents in Newark (New Jersey's largest city), with those in Boston. The authors found significant disparities between the two locations, but concluded that because medical personnel in both sites had conducted exercises together often, Newark would likely be able to carry out an effective response to an incident like the Boston Marathon bombing.
The authors of this study compared medical response capabilities for critical incidents in Newark (New Jersey's largest city), with those in Boston. The authors found significant disparities between the two locations, but concluded that because medical personnel in both sites had conducted exercises together often, Newark would likely be able to carry out an effective response to an incident like the Boston Marathon bombing.
Frykberg, E. (2002). Medical Management of Disasters and Mass Casualties From Terrorist Bombings: How Can We Cope? Journal of Trauma. 53(2): 201-212.
The author examines past terrorist bombing events and provides a summary of triage, treatment, and resource utilization differences.
The author examines past terrorist bombing events and provides a summary of triage, treatment, and resource utilization differences.
* Frykberg, E. (2004). Principles of Mass Casualty Management Following Terrorist Disasters. Annals of Surgery. 239(3): 319–321.
The author presents an overview of three studies on mass casualty terrorist attacks in Israel. He notes several distinctive characteristics of these incidents that go "far beyond the standard surgical training and experience:" the large number of victims; young victims; and the severity of injury.
The author presents an overview of three studies on mass casualty terrorist attacks in Israel. He notes several distinctive characteristics of these incidents that go "far beyond the standard surgical training and experience:" the large number of victims; young victims; and the severity of injury.
Gates, J., Arabian, S., Biddinger, P., et al. . (2014). The Initial Response to the Boston Marathon Bombing: Lessons Learned to Prepare for the Next Disaster. (Abstract only.) Annals of Surgery. 260(6):960-6.
The authors provide an overview of the medical response to the Boston Marathon bombing, and list the factors that contributed to positive outcomes.
The authors provide an overview of the medical response to the Boston Marathon bombing, and list the factors that contributed to positive outcomes.
* Gutierrez de Ceballos, J., Turégano-Fuentes, F., Perez-Diaz, D., et al. (2005). 11 March 2004: The Terrorist Bomb Explosions in Madrid, Spain– An Analysis of the Logistics, Injuries Sustained and Clinical Management of Casualties Treated at the Closest Hospital. Critical Care. 9(1):104-111.
In 2004, 10 bombs exploded in four commuter trains in Madrid, Spain. The authors provide an in-depth overview of the 250 patients with severe injuries and found the following injuries in patients: soft tissue and musculoskeletal injuries (85%), ear blast injury (67%), blast lung injury (63%), and head trauma (52%).
In 2004, 10 bombs exploded in four commuter trains in Madrid, Spain. The authors provide an in-depth overview of the 250 patients with severe injuries and found the following injuries in patients: soft tissue and musculoskeletal injuries (85%), ear blast injury (67%), blast lung injury (63%), and head trauma (52%).
Kelen, G.D., Catlett, C.L., Kubit, J.G., and Hsieh, Y.H. (2012). Hospital-Based Shootings in the United States: 2000 to 2011. (Abstract only.) Annals of Emergency Medicine. 60(6):790-798.
The authors analyzed reports on acute care hospital shooting events in the U.S. from 2000-2011 and found 154 incidents in 40 states, resulting in 235 injured or dead victims. They provide additional demographic data (e.g., perpetrator characteristics, location of shooting).
The authors analyzed reports on acute care hospital shooting events in the U.S. from 2000-2011 and found 154 incidents in 40 states, resulting in 235 injured or dead victims. They provide additional demographic data (e.g., perpetrator characteristics, location of shooting).
Kellerman, A. and Peleg, K. (2013). Lessons from Boston. New England Journal of Medicine. 368:1956-1957.
The authors summarize three key points from the Boston bombing incident: the low mortality rate and related factors; the vital role played by bystanders who offered on-scene medical care; and the role the well-exercised disaster plan played in the successful response
The authors summarize three key points from the Boston bombing incident: the low mortality rate and related factors; the vital role played by bystanders who offered on-scene medical care; and the role the well-exercised disaster plan played in the successful response
* King, D., Larentzakis, A., Ramly, A., et al. (2015). Tourniquet Use at the Boston Marathon Bombing: Lost in Translation. (Abstract only.) Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery. 78(3):594-9.
Every Boston Level 1 trauma center populated a database regarding specific injuries, extremities affected, prehospital interventions, and the like experienced by victims of the marathon bombings. The authors found that after the event, extremity exsanguination was either left alone or treated with an improvised tourniquet. The authors stress the need to share the military's approach to controlling severe extremity bleeding with "all civilian first responders."
Every Boston Level 1 trauma center populated a database regarding specific injuries, extremities affected, prehospital interventions, and the like experienced by victims of the marathon bombings. The authors found that after the event, extremity exsanguination was either left alone or treated with an improvised tourniquet. The authors stress the need to share the military's approach to controlling severe extremity bleeding with "all civilian first responders."
Lakatos, B., Delisle, L., Mitchell, M., and Etheredge, M. (2014). Psychiatric Advanced Practice Nurses Contributions to Supporting Survivors and Caregivers Affected by the Boston Marathon Bombings. (Abstract only.) Clinical Nurse Specialist. 28(2): 92-96.
The authors examined how psychiatric advanced practice nurses helped care for patients and their loved ones in the aftermath of the Boston Marathon bombing.
The authors examined how psychiatric advanced practice nurses helped care for patients and their loved ones in the aftermath of the Boston Marathon bombing.
* Mutafchiyski, V., Popivanov, G., and Kjossev, K. (2014). Medical Aspects of Terrorist Bombings - A Focus on DCS and DCR. Military Medical Research. 11;1:13.
The authors explain that many victims of blast trauma will require significant blood transfusions. They then highlight the differences between damage control surgery and damage control resuscitation.
The authors explain that many victims of blast trauma will require significant blood transfusions. They then highlight the differences between damage control surgery and damage control resuscitation.
Oser, M., Shah, S., and Gitlin, D. (2015). Psychiatry Department Response to the Boston Marathon Bombings Within a Level-1 Trauma Center. (Abstract only.) Harvard Review of Psychiatry. 23(3):195-200.
The authors examined an academic medical center's Department of Psychiatry's response during the week after the Boston marathon bombings and share lessons learned.
The authors examined an academic medical center's Department of Psychiatry's response during the week after the Boston marathon bombings and share lessons learned.
Sasser, S., Hunt, R., Bailey, B., et al. (2007). In a Moment's Notice: Surge Capacity in Terrorist Bombings. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control.
This document reflects on two expert panels that were convened to discuss planning for challenges associated with surge issues from large numbers of bombing casualties.
This document reflects on two expert panels that were convened to discuss planning for challenges associated with surge issues from large numbers of bombing casualties.
Sylvester, K., Rocchio, M., Belisle, C., et al. (2014). Pharmacy Response to the Boston Marathon Bombings at a Tertiary Academic Medical Center. (Abstract only.) The Annals of Pharmacotherapy. 19;48(8):1082-1085.
The authors (from a tertiary academic medical center) discuss the pharmaceutical response to the Boston Marathon bombing, which focused on staffing, supplies, and communication.
The authors (from a tertiary academic medical center) discuss the pharmaceutical response to the Boston Marathon bombing, which focused on staffing, supplies, and communication.
The Joint Committee to Create a National Policy to Enhance Survivability from Mass Casualty Shooting Events. (2013). Active Shooter and Intentional Mass-Casualty Events: The Hartford Consensus II. Bulletin of the American College of Surgeons.
This resource summarizes findings from a meeting of The Hartford Consensus on active shooter and mass casualty events. The group emphasizes the need for on-scene collaboration between emergency medical services and law enforcement, and highlights the supportive role that uninjured bystanders can also play in the response effort.
This resource summarizes findings from a meeting of The Hartford Consensus on active shooter and mass casualty events. The group emphasizes the need for on-scene collaboration between emergency medical services and law enforcement, and highlights the supportive role that uninjured bystanders can also play in the response effort.
Wachira, B., Abdalla, R., and Wallis, L. (2014). Westgate Shootings: An Emergency Department Approach to a Mass-Casualty Incident. Prehospital and Disaster Medicine. 29(05):1-4.
The authors describe the hospital response to the mass shooting at the Westgate mall in Nairobi, Kenya.
The authors describe the hospital response to the mass shooting at the Westgate mall in Nairobi, Kenya.
World Health Organization, Regional Office for Europe. (2007). Mass Gatherings and Public Health: The Experience of the Athens 2004 Olympic Games. South Central Preparedness and Emergency Response Learning Center.
This book features chapters on a variety of emergency medical topics related to preparing for the 2004 Olympics, including the following: epidemiological surveillance; preparedness for deliberate use of biological or chemical agents, or radionuclear materials; food and water safety; and emergency medical services preparedness.
This book features chapters on a variety of emergency medical topics related to preparing for the 2004 Olympics, including the following: epidemiological surveillance; preparedness for deliberate use of biological or chemical agents, or radionuclear materials; food and water safety; and emergency medical services preparedness.
Pediatric
Chokshi, N., Behar, S., Nager, A., et al. (2008). Disaster Management Among Pediatric Surgeons: Preparedness, Training and Involvement. (Abstract only.) American Journal of Disaster Medicine. 3(1):5-14.
The authors discuss the results of an anonymous survey of American Pediatric Surgical Association members in 2007, which found that while 77% felt "definitely responsible" for assisting after a disaster, only 24% felt "definitely prepared" to do so. The authors listed factors associated with higher levels of preparedness and emphasized the need for more training.
The authors discuss the results of an anonymous survey of American Pediatric Surgical Association members in 2007, which found that while 77% felt "definitely responsible" for assisting after a disaster, only 24% felt "definitely prepared" to do so. The authors listed factors associated with higher levels of preparedness and emphasized the need for more training.
* Tennessee Emergency Medical Services for Children. (2012). Preparing for Explosion and Blast Injuries.
This course can help healthcare professionals plan for and understand the terminology associated with explosive incidents. It also includes a section on pediatric patients.
This course can help healthcare professionals plan for and understand the terminology associated with explosive incidents. It also includes a section on pediatric patients.
Plans, Tools, and Templates
Byrne-Dugan, C., Cederroth, T., Deshpande, A., and Remick, D. (2014). The Processing of Surgical Specimens With Forensic Evidence: Lessons Learned From the Boston Marathon Bombings. Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Online. (Epub ahead of print.).
Pathology departments throughout the Boston area received amputated limbs and other specimens from trauma surgeries, which were not accompanied by clear examination guidelines. The authors of this study developed a protocol (reviewed and approved by experts in forensic evidence collection) that can be used by pathology departments in the aftermath of a disaster.
Pathology departments throughout the Boston area received amputated limbs and other specimens from trauma surgeries, which were not accompanied by clear examination guidelines. The authors of this study developed a protocol (reviewed and approved by experts in forensic evidence collection) that can be used by pathology departments in the aftermath of a disaster.
Greater New York Hospital Association. (2013). Integrated Explosive Event and Mass Casualty Event: Response Plan Template.
This template was developed to help hospitals in New York prepare to respond to explosive and mass casualty events. The templates can help facilitate coordination between various hospital departments and can be customized by healthcare facility emergency planners across the country.
This template was developed to help hospitals in New York prepare to respond to explosive and mass casualty events. The templates can help facilitate coordination between various hospital departments and can be customized by healthcare facility emergency planners across the country.
Health Resources and Services Administration. (2007). Preparedness for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive Events: Questionnaire for Health Care Facilities. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (Archive).
This questionnaire can be used in two ways: 1) by states, localities, and multi-hospital systems to determine overall hospital emergency preparedness, or 2) by individual hospitals or healthcare facilities as a checklist of areas to consider as a facility creates or updates emergency preparedness and response plans.
This questionnaire can be used in two ways: 1) by states, localities, and multi-hospital systems to determine overall hospital emergency preparedness, or 2) by individual hospitals or healthcare facilities as a checklist of areas to consider as a facility creates or updates emergency preparedness and response plans.
* Healthcare and Public Health Sector Critical Infrastructure Protection Partnership. (2015).Active Shooter Planning and Response in a Healthcare Setting.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of issues and response to active shooters in the healthcare environment and includes response plan templates in the appendix.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of issues and response to active shooters in the healthcare environment and includes response plan templates in the appendix.
Treatment
* Almogy, G. and Rivkind, A. (2005). Surgical Lessons Learned from Suicide Bombing Attacks. (Abstract only.) Journal of the American College of Surgeons. 202(2):313-319.
The authors combined an analysis of data contained in the Israeli National Trauma Registry with their firsthand experience caring for suicide bomb victims at the Hadassah University Hospital to provide an overview of lessons learned.
The authors combined an analysis of data contained in the Israeli National Trauma Registry with their firsthand experience caring for suicide bomb victims at the Hadassah University Hospital to provide an overview of lessons learned.
DePalma, R.G., Burris, D., Champion, H.R., and Hodgson, M.J. (2005). Blast Injuries.(Abstract only.) New England Journal of Medicine. 352:1335-42.
The authors explain the nature of blast injuries, highlight strategies for stabilizing patients and determining the severity of injury, and discuss treatment approaches.
The authors explain the nature of blast injuries, highlight strategies for stabilizing patients and determining the severity of injury, and discuss treatment approaches.
Duncan, E. Colver, K., Dougall, N., et al. (2014). Consensus on Items and Quantities of Clinical Equipment Required to Deal with Mass Casualties Big Bang Incident: A National Delphi Study. BMC Emergency Medicine. 14: 5.
British researchers developed an expert consensus regarding the essential items and minimum quantities of clinical equipment necessary to care for 100 patients on the scene of a mass casualty explosion event.
British researchers developed an expert consensus regarding the essential items and minimum quantities of clinical equipment necessary to care for 100 patients on the scene of a mass casualty explosion event.
* Frykberg, E. (2004). Principles of Mass Casualty Management Following Terrorist Disasters. Annals of Surgery. 239(3): 319–321.
The author presents an overview of three studies on mass casualty terrorist attacks in Israel. He notes several distinctive characteristics of these incidents that go "far beyond the standard surgical training and experience:" the large number of victims; young victims; and the severity of injury.
The author presents an overview of three studies on mass casualty terrorist attacks in Israel. He notes several distinctive characteristics of these incidents that go "far beyond the standard surgical training and experience:" the large number of victims; young victims; and the severity of injury.
* Gutierrez de Ceballos, J., Turégano-Fuentes, F., Perez-Diaz, D., et al. (2005). 11 March 2004: The Terrorist Bomb Explosions in Madrid, Spain– An Analysis of the Logistics, Injuries Sustained and Clinical Management of Casualties Treated at the Closest Hospital. Critical Care. 9(1):104-111.
In 2004, 10 bombs exploded in four commuter trains in Madrid, Spain. The authors provide an in-depth overview of the 250 patients with severe injuries and found the following injuries in patients: soft tissue and musculoskeletal injuries (85%), ear blast injury (67%), blast lung injury (63%), and head trauma (52%).
In 2004, 10 bombs exploded in four commuter trains in Madrid, Spain. The authors provide an in-depth overview of the 250 patients with severe injuries and found the following injuries in patients: soft tissue and musculoskeletal injuries (85%), ear blast injury (67%), blast lung injury (63%), and head trauma (52%).
Kearns, R., Myers, B., Cairns, C., et al. (2014). Hospital Bioterrorism Planning and Burn Surge. Biosecurity and Bioterrorism: Biodefense Strategy, Practice, and Science. 12(1): 20-8.
The authors discuss injuries suffered as a result of an explosion at a manufacturing plant in North Carolina, and how pre-event preparedness and planning influenced the medical response.
The authors discuss injuries suffered as a result of an explosion at a manufacturing plant in North Carolina, and how pre-event preparedness and planning influenced the medical response.
* King, D., Larentzakis, A., Ramly, A., et al. (2015). Tourniquet Use at the Boston Marathon Bombing: Lost in Translation. (Abstract only.) Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery. 78(3):594-9.
Every Boston Level 1 trauma center populated a database regarding specific injuries, extremities affected, prehospital interventions, and the like experienced by victims of the marathon bombings. The authors found that after the event, extremity exsanguination was either left alone or treated with an improvised tourniquet. The authors stress the need to share the military's approach to controlling severe extremity bleeding with "all civilian first responders."
Every Boston Level 1 trauma center populated a database regarding specific injuries, extremities affected, prehospital interventions, and the like experienced by victims of the marathon bombings. The authors found that after the event, extremity exsanguination was either left alone or treated with an improvised tourniquet. The authors stress the need to share the military's approach to controlling severe extremity bleeding with "all civilian first responders."
* Mutafchiyski, V., Popivanov, G., and Kjossev, K. (2014). Medical Aspects of Terrorist Bombings - A Focus on DCS and DCR. Military Medical Research. 11;1:13.
The authors explain that many victims of blast trauma will require significant blood transfusions. They then highlight the differences between damage control surgery and damage control resuscitation.
The authors explain that many victims of blast trauma will require significant blood transfusions. They then highlight the differences between damage control surgery and damage control resuscitation.
Redhead, J., Ward, P., and Batrick, N. (2005). The London Attacks--Response: Prehospital and Hospital Care. The New England Journal of Medicine. 353:546-547.
The authors detail the medical response to the 2005 London public transportation bombing. They discuss the nature of injuries, how a treatment center was set up in a nearby hotel, and the process of handing burn patients over to a regional burn center.
The authors detail the medical response to the 2005 London public transportation bombing. They discuss the nature of injuries, how a treatment center was set up in a nearby hotel, and the process of handing burn patients over to a regional burn center.
Sylvester, K., Rocchio, M., Belisle, C., et al. (2014). Pharmacy Response to the Boston Marathon Bombings at a Tertiary Academic Medical Center. (Abstract only.) The Annals of Pharmacotherapy. 19;48(8):1082-1085.
The authors (from a tertiary academic medical center) discuss the pharmaceutical response to the Boston Marathon bombing, which focused on staffing, supplies, and communication.
The authors (from a tertiary academic medical center) discuss the pharmaceutical response to the Boston Marathon bombing, which focused on staffing, supplies, and communication.
Agencies and Organizations
Note: The agencies and organizations listed in this section have a page, program, or specific research dedicated to this topic area.
Note: The agencies and organizations listed in this section have a page, program, or specific research dedicated to this topic area.
American College of Emergency Physicians. Bombings: Injury Patterns and Care. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Government Health IT. Committee for Tactical Emergency Casualty Care.
This ASPR TRACIE Topic Collection was comprehensively reviewed in June 2015 by the following subject matter experts (listed in alphabetical order):Scott Cormier, CHEP, NRP, Senior Director, Emergency Preparedness and Management, Clinical Services Group, HCA;Robert Dunne, MD FACEP, Program Director, EMS Fellowship, Medical Director, Detroit East Medical Control Authority, Associate Professor, Wayne State University; and John Hick, MD, HHS ASPR and Hennepin County Medical Center.
Additional assistance provided by James Paturas, Director, Center for Emergency Preparedness and Disaster Response, Yale New Haven Heath System.
Additional assistance provided by James Paturas, Director, Center for Emergency Preparedness and Disaster Response, Yale New Haven Heath System.
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