Hurricane Evacuation Shelter Operations
Author Information
Author(s): Luis Rios, Theresa Cullen
Primary Institution: Orange Park Medical Center, Department of Emergency Services
Hypothesis
How can disaster medical assistance teams effectively operate a hurricane evacuation shelter?
Conclusion
The partnership between DMAT and USPHS teams successfully addressed the diverse needs of hurricane evacuees.
Supporting Evidence
- The DMAT team included 35 members with various medical expertise.
- Approximately 40% of evacuees did not require medical attention.
- The shelter addressed the needs for privacy and socialization for evacuees.
Takeaway
When a hurricane happens, special teams help people who need medical care find a safe place to stay and get help.
Methodology
The teams used triage systems to assess and treat evacuees with various medical needs.
Limitations
No individual triage or needs assessment was conducted before evacuees arrived at the shelter.
Participant Demographics
The shelter served approximately 450 evacuees, including individuals with chronic and acute medical conditions.
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