The public officials’ response to a crisis requires them to engage in mass care – healthcare services for people impacted by an incident. Mass care encompasses a range of elements, as those affected by adverse events require support for their mental well-being, physical health treatment, information, safety, water, food, and more (Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response, 2016). Visits to families and educational programs are a part of mass care as they prepare the community for potential future events (American Red Cross, n.d.). As an emergency response nurse and a leader, one must evaluate the specific needs of the population, select an appropriate location, and ensure that partners provide the necessary equipment and resources for the shelter.
I have never visited an emergency shelter, so I have to rely on reports about mass care events and shelter descriptions to consider the various points that professionals must plan for. For instance, I have always considered accessibility options such as comfortable entrances and ramps for people in wheelchairs, as well as signs and voice instructions for individuals with hearing and sight impairments. However, I did not consider special conditions for autistic persons and those who may become overstimulated by the stressful atmosphere during an emergency.
Another essential point in organizing mass care is the health and safety of responders – healthcare workers and other staff who help the community. The efficiency and quality of support depend on these professionals, as they distribute medications, provide guidance, care for pets, and provide other services (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2018). Thus, it is vital to prioritize the well-being of emergency responders so they can help others using their qualifications and expertise. Moreover, as responders work with the whole community, their risk of disease exposure is much higher than that of other citizens. They should be cared for to limit the spread of infections and protect the healthcare workforce. For instance, responders should receive personal protective equipment and other resources to keep them safe.
References
American Red Cross. (n.d.). Disaster preparedness volunteer.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2018). Public health emergency preparedness and response capabilities. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response. (2016). 2017-2022 Health Care Preparedness and Response. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.