8. Man-Made Disasters

Objectives

  • Describe the appropriate management for possible toxic exposures in manmade disasters.
  • Recognize the main physical characteristics of toxins.
  • List the potential sources of toxic chemicals.
  • Describe the characteristics of biologic exposures.
  • Discuss the characteristics of radiation exposures.
  • Describe the clinical presentation and management of radiation exposures.
  • Discuss the features of thermomechanical disasters.

The likelihood of terrorism involving the use of biologic, chemical, or nuclear means is small, but if it does occur, the effects could be devastating. In man-made disasters, careful collection of data and reporting to the appropriate officials could be key to aiding in the detection and management of the disaster. Terrorist attacks could be extremely obvious, with reaction to the incident occurring almost immediately. On the other hand, both the attack and the onset of associated symptomatology can be more subtle. Thus, suspicions by health providers may prompt an investigation by authorities which will lead to the recognition of the terrorist act.