Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) Casualty Management Principles

Abstract

Chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear (CBRN) weapons have been used since antiquity. Examples of their recent use include war fi ghting, ethnic confl ict, terrorism and assassination. In addition, CBRN incidents have also included accidental releases during peace time operations, and many of the principles for CBRN incident response can be applied to other hazardous material (HAZMAT) incidents. The impact of such weapons may have a range of implications for medical personnel both military and civilian. Objectives • To describe the characteristics and effects of CBRN agents • To outline the principles of CBRN casualty management • To outline the requirements for casualty hazard management including decontamination 748