Five Fast Fixes

Abstract

Many simulation centers conduct emergency preparedness disaster simulation. Often these simulations incorporate participants from multiple disciplines. These simulations offer participants the opportunity to demonstrate multiple skills, such as communication, triage, crisis resource management, and safety. A well-conducted scenario will help to prepare students for multiple possible disasters. Many disaster simulations are conducted in the field. For example, a nuclear accident disaster may take place in a parking lot or field. Military bases and fire stations are also great locations for conducting emergency preparedness disaster training. For a recent mass casualty disaster simulation at Drexel University, rather than bringing the disaster victims to our simulated hospital, we decided to make the hospital the scene of the disaster. With careful planning and many brainstorming sessions with staff and faculty, we simulated a hospital unit that had suffered extensive damage as a result of a building implosion gone wrong. Most of the planning for our disaster was done in the weeks before the actual event. Other ideas came together during the set-up of the room. One of the first things we planned was to collect small boxes and cardboard tubes from items shipped to our department. The boxes and tubes would later be painted to simulate cinder blocks and pipes. We purchased gray and black paint and plastic drop cloths. We also scrounged old ceiling tiles that had been replaced by our maintenance department. A staff member brought in a fog machine to add to the atmosphere of confusion. Talcum powder was liberally dusted over people and objects to simulate construction dust. Red bicycle taillights were purchased and attached with Velcro to the existing fire alarms in the room. I brought in red LED Christmas lights, with no idea how