Preparedness in hospital for medical response to nuclear and radiological emergency

Abstract

Medical preparedness and response to radiation emergency are challenged by the fast development of nuclear energy and nuclear technology, the rapid use of radiological source and devices,and terrorist threats involving radiological material. Against this background, hospitals play a vital role in medical response to radiation emergency. In this article, we discussed the hospital's responsibility in medical response to radiation emergency, and raised a series of requirements to the medical bases engaged in radiation emergency, which cover the planning, personnel, facilities, equipments and drugs stockpiling, and medical management technique of such bases. Adequate preparedness in advance makes the best guard for such bases, to effectively handle nuclear and radiological emergency, minimizing casualties and health damage and protecting people's health and safety. Key words: Nuclear accident; Radiological accident; Emergency preparedness; Medical response