A Comprehensive Guide to Mass Casualty Incidents (MCIs): Causes, Preparation, and Response

Understanding Mass Casualty Incidents

A mass casualty incident (MCI) is a catastrophic event that overwhelms local emergency medical services (EMS) resources, including personnel and equipment.

MCIs occur when the number of casualties surpasses the capacity of local healthcare systems.

They can result from various causes, such as natural disasters, transportation accidents, terrorist attacks, or industrial accidents.

Causes of Mass Casualty Incidents

• Natural disasters (e.g., earthquakes, hurricanes, floods)
• Transportation accidents (e.g., plane crashes, train derailments)
• Terrorist attacks
• Industrial accidents (e.g., explosions, hazardous material spills)

Role of Health Authorities in MCI Preparedness

Strong involvement of health authorities at all levels, particularly at the national level, is crucial for effective MCI preparedness.

Collaboration with other sectors, such as emergency management, law enforcement, and transportation, is also essential.

Plans for MCIs must address patient care, transportation, communication, and coordination among multiple agencies.

Response to a Mass Casualty Incident

MCIs require a coordinated and efficient response from multiple agencies.

First responders, including EMS personnel, firefighters, and police officers, work together to stabilize patients, provide initial treatment, and evacuate casualties.

Medical facilities must activate their disaster response plans and prepare to receive and treat a large influx of patients.

Resources for Mass Casualty Incident Preparedness

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Mass Trauma Preparedness
• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Mass Casualty Incident Response
• National Consortium of Terrorism and Mass Casualty Incidents (NCTM)