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Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Decontamination

NCJ Number
194361
Journal
Joint Commission Perspectives Volume: 21 Issue: 12 Dated: December 2001 Pages: 20-21
Editor(s)
Helen Fry
Date Published
December 2001
Length
2 pages
Annotation
This article provides preparedness information regarding bioterrorism.
Abstract
Health care organizations need to be prepared for the possibility of nuclear, biological, or chemical emergencies. They need to quickly and effectively implement decontamination procedures to treat the contaminated individuals and protect other patients and staff by containing the causative agent. Decontamination areas should have a location with strictly controlled access, an easy procedure for removing contaminants, an appropriate means of handling the contaminated material, disposable or cleanable medical equipment, and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for the decontamination team. The best place to set up a decontamination area is outside the main facility to protect staff, equipment, and other patients from becoming contaminated. Some organizations have a dedicated decontamination room but it should not be in close proximity to other care areas. It is important to coordinate decontamination efforts with the community’s local HazMat response team. The facility’s air-handling unit must also be evaluated. An essential component of a successful decontamination program is training. Staff must be trained to recognize possible hazardous situations and to respond properly and immediately. Training must be focused on identifying patients who may have come in contact with biological agents or chemicals and on avoiding contamination of the facility and staff. Decontamination begins with clinical assessment and should proceed in an orderly manner in keeping with the primary trauma assessment. Medical treatment priorities will be to treat life-threatening conditions, perform a primary assessment together with contamination reduction, thoroughly decontaminate, and identify hazardous material. Future readiness includes purchasing decontamination facilities and equipment, assessing staffing in different areas, educating security personnel, and monitoring medical records for evidence of disease related to nuclear, biological, and chemical agents. Health care organizations are urged to prepare for mental health aspects in higher numbers and for the longer term.