Identifying the components of prehospital emergency preparedness in radiological and nuclear incidents: a scoping review

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INTRODUCTION: Despite the low probability of radiological and nuclear (RN) incidents, they can have severe consequences and require immediate response. Therefore, preparedness for them is important. In this regard, prehospital emergencies are important in reducing injuries and deaths from these accidents. AIM: This study aimed to identify the factors affecting prehospital emergency preparedness in RN incidents. METHOD: The study was conducted using a scoping review methodology. The research protocol followed the 2020 PRISMA-P checklist for systematic reviews and meta-analysis protocols. A search was conducted from 1970 to 2024 across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ProQuest, Google Scholar, and Persian databases such as SID and Magiran using "Medical Emergency Services," "EMS," "Preparedness," "nuclear," and "radiological" as keywords. Of the 9,330 articles, 39 were selected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. RESULTS: The study identified three main categories, 18 subcategories, and 125 codes for prehospital emergency preparedness in RN incidents. These include medical and non-medical care at the scene (triage, treatment surveillance, monitoring, decontamination, Psychosocial Support, and safety & Security), scene management aspects (command system & management, information & data management, documentation, communication, coordination, cooperation & collaboration, risk Assessment, evacuation, and surge capacity), resources and education (staff, equipment & stuff, finances, and training & exercises). CONCLUSION: The preparedness of the prehospital system in RN incidents is important in various aspects and includes various components addressed in this study. Paying attention to them can play a significant role in reducing the health effects of the mentioned accidents. These components include planning, resource provision, training and practice, and internal and external organizational coordination.

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