2018 Trauma University: Active Shooter-Active Shooter

Active Shooter - handout

Pdf Summary

The document discusses the topic of active shooter situations in hospitals and provides recommendations for preparation and response. The speaker, Dr. Sydney Vail, emphasizes the importance of being proactive in preparing for active shooter incidents, even for healthcare professionals working in trauma centers. He highlights the need for needs assessments, training, and communication with relevant stakeholders such as law enforcement and local EMS. The document also mentions the overwhelming influx of "walking wounded" victims who self-transport to the nearest hospitals, bypassing on-site triage stations. It emphasizes the importance of having a well-prepared triage system and updated internal/external disaster policies and procedures.<br /><br />The document also discusses the response to active shooter incidents both within and outside of hospitals. It mentions the importance of tactical medical providers, improved communication, and institution-wide planning. It further highlights the need to ensure information accuracy and timeliness, properly identify the threat and location, and prioritize safety over heroism. The document provides statistics on active shooter incidents in healthcare facilities and the common locations within hospitals where such incidents occur.<br /><br />The document concludes by discussing issues related to active shooter situations, such as the importance of situational awareness, the potential impact on patient care, and strategies for personal safety. It emphasizes the need for situational awareness, lockable rooms, and effective communication systems to save lives. It discourages following linear thinking and advocates for being armed with alternative strategies as recommended by the Department of Homeland Security. Overall, the document aims to raise awareness about and provide guidance for addressing the threat of active shooter situations in hospitals.

Keywords

active shooter situations

hospitals

preparation

response

needs assessments

communication

triage system

situational awareness

patient care

Department of Homeland Security