Title of article :
Terrorist bombings: Medical response in a developing country
Author/Authors :
Zafar, Hasnain Aga Khan University Hospital - Department of Surgery, Pakistan , Jawad, Ahmed Aga Khan University Hospital - Department of Surgery, Pakistan , Shamim, M. Shahzad Aga Khan University Hospital - Department of Neuro-Surgery, Pakistan , Memon, Ayaz Ahmed Aga Khan University Hospital - Department of Surgery, Pakistan , Hameed, Aamir Aga Khan University Hospital - Department of Surgery, Pakistan , Effendi, M. Shahrukh Aga Khan University Hospital - Department of Surgery, Pakistan , Qureshi, Saeed Dow University of Health Sciences - Department of Surgery, Pakistan
From page :
561
To page :
566
Abstract :
Objective: To evaluate the process of transport and immediate Emergency Department (ER) management of mass casualties following the recent bomb blasts in Karachi and review in detail the medical response and management of victims undertaken in these two incidents.Methods: Eyewitness accounts of the victims, medical personnel and newspaper clippings were used to understand and identify difficulties faced during the rescue process. Data regarding presenting injuries and their outcomes was also collected from all victims presenting to the emergency department at Aga Khan University Hospital.Results: Seventy nine individuals died and over 250 victims were injured in the two incidents. All victims and dead bodies were shifted to the nearest public sector hospital overwhelming the health care facility.Subsequently all victims were evacuated to private sector hospitals creating similar difficulties. Over half of the victims presenting at the emergency department had minor injuries and did not require admission. Most patients requiring admission needed orthopaedic intervention.Conclusion: A comprehensive disaster plan with a centralized command and control system is required for the city of Karachi, involving all stake holders including charity ambulance services, security agencies, and trauma management facilities. Training courses and exercises for health care personnel should also be made mandatory to achieve professional excellence.
Keywords :
Terrorist Bombing , Mass Casualties , Disaster management
Journal title :
Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association (Centre) JPMA
Journal title :
Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association (Centre) JPMA
Record number :
2590712
Link To Document :
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