NCJ Number
190977
Date Published
2001
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This chapter examines the use of radiation as a weapon of mass effect and treatment of persons exposed to radiation.
Abstract
Radiation is energy in the form of invisible electromagnetic waves or very small energetic particles. Radiation exposure differs from a traditional hazmat incident because victims (or rescuers) do not have to come in contact with the source to be exposed. The chapter encourages a common sense approach and a "healthy respect" for radiation. There is wide debate over the health effects of low levels of radiation. High levels of radiation exposure cause severe health effects. Expedient emergency medical treatment is the first priority for responding to radiation exposed patients. Information related to the source, type of material, and length of exposure is valuable if it can be gathered. Emergency medical services responders must remember the distinction between exposure and contamination. Rescuers coming in contact with contaminated patients should also be considered contaminated and should be decontaminated accordingly. In a mass casualty terrorism incident, the presence of a chemical, biological, or radiation agent should be considered. In suspected cases of radiological exposure, the patient must be triaged, treated, monitored, and decontaminated on the scene before transport. Transport of contaminated patients will result in contaminated transport units and contaminated hospitals. In any form of radiation incident, State and Federal support agencies should be contacted. Notes