This is not a manual on how to run a major incident but a rather quirky guide on how to approach any incident involving mass casualties.
Comprising a list of 100 ‘rules’ the authors impart their considerable knowledge and expertise in an easily digestible form. The pedigree of the authors is evident, collectively involved in both military and civilian fields of clinical care for a number of years.
Incorporating the well-established major incident medical management and support system, and making reference to the CBRN dimension at the relevant points throughout, this book provides a refreshing and engaging approach to treating large numbers of casualties at a single incident.
Reflecting an area of paramedic practice of increasing relevance, a distinction is made between a ‘normal’ and a major incident, with the rules applicable to both scenarios. For that alone, this is a worthy read. But this book offers far more than a simple check-list.
‘This book offers far more than a simple check-list’
Coherently structured and lucidly written, the content is ably supported through clever use of case studies. While some of these are dated, the lessons are still valid today and are incorporated well in the text.
An invaluable insight is given to the thought processes and pressures which anybody is likely to experience in these circumstances, and due regard is given to evidence- based clinical practice where appropriate.
Use of illustrations is limited, although those elements of mass casualty management represented in diagrammatic form are easy to follow and consistent with the wider literature on the subject.
Whilst greater detail could be provided on specific roles and responsibilities of those involved, a more holistic approach is taken on incident management and this certainly does not detract from what is a valuable contribution to the subject area.
From triage to treatment, command and control to the aftermath, the authors are entirely successful in delivering a very readable text.