Health care approach to burn mass casualty incidents: Policy notes

Benedict Edward P Valdez; Mark Anthony R Paderanga; James David M David; Christine May Perandos-astudillo; Rodel C Roñ; o

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Health care approach to burn mass casualty incidents: Policy notes

Author: Benedict Edward P Valdez ¹ ; Mark Anthony R Paderanga ¹ ; James David M David ¹ ; Christine May Perandos-Astudillo ² ; Rodel C Roño ²
Author Information

1. Department of Emergency Medicine, Southern Philippines Medical Center, JP Laurel Avenue, Bajada, Davao City
2. Research Utilization and Publication Unit, Southern Philippines Medical Center, JP Laurel Ave, Davao City, Philippines
Publication Type:Journal Article
MeSH: Mass Casualty Incidents; Burns
From: Southern Philippines Medical Center Journal of Health Care Services 2024;10(1):1-
CountryPhilippines
Language:English
Abstract: A burn mass casualty incident (BMCI), an incident that involves at least three burn victims with severe injuries,1 presents several unique challenges. In a mass casualty event, between 25 and 30 percent of those injured can sustain moderate-to-severe burn injuries.2 Management of burn patients necessitates a significant amount of health resources and logistical support, along with prompt and high-quality care to optimize the functional and cosmetic outcomes of severely injured patients. While some developed countries have sound disaster management plans, many countries where most BMCIs occur lack such well-established plans.3 The effective management of BMCIs is crucial for positive patient outcomes. Given resource scarcity, especially in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas, comprehensive mitigation and preparedness strategies are essential. These strategies must address worst-case scenarios that may challenge the existing internal protocols, especially at the local level.4 The surge in health care facility capacity during BMCIs can quickly overwhelm local and regional resources, from prehospital care to specialized burn centers. In the Philippines, disaster response levels and adequacy may vary widely among different regions and local government units (LGU). While the Department of Health has issued guidelines for health emergency and disaster response management,5 there are currently no policies or guides on specifically addressing preincident planning for BMCIs. The aim of this article is to recommend policies that will potentially improve the current health care approach to BMCIs.