68 - Biological, Natural, and Human-Induced Disasters: The Role of the Anesthesiologist

Abstract

Anesthesiologists possess a unique combination of knowledge and procedural skills that make them essential in the response to large-scale disasters, and they must be willing to modify their traditional workflow in order to best meet the needs of victims. Natural disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, tsunamis, and tornadoes have the ability to cause massive interruptions in the normal provision of health care. Different types of natural disasters present unique opportunities for anesthesiologists to assist both victims and local healthcare workers. Disasters can induce shortages of medications and fluids, necessitating global conservation of existing supplies and avoidance of waste by anesthesiologists and all healthcare providers. As acts of terrorism have become more frequent and aggressive in recent decades, anesthesiologists may be more likely to need to provide care following a mass shooting, bombing, chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear event (CBRN). One of the highest priorities for healthcare workers after a CBRN event is to take precautions against becoming the next victim. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is of the greatest importance in these situations. During an outbreak of a highly dangerous infectious disease, anesthesiologists must understand the mechanisms of transmitting the disease and act as a consultant in the development of optimal care pathways to minimize risk to patients and healthcare workers.