Preparedness for the prehospital and hospital response to radiation emergencies

This publication deals with the preparedness of the prehospital and hospital care system to care for victims of nuclear and radiological emergencies that may arise as a result of technical incidents, natural disasters, accidents during transport, or environmental contamination. 

Preparedness for specialized medical response in the health sector is covered by the International Health Regulations (2005) and the IAEA’s safety requirements for emergency preparedness and response. Preparedness includes the designation of health facilities responsible for the specialized care of patients with radiation injuries, as well as the development and maintenance of such facilities’ capacities to respond effectively, including with regard to the clinical management of radiation injuries. 

This publication supports the selection of hospitals that could serve as national referral facilities for the care of patients affected by this type of emergency, as well as the development of action plans to strengthen the capacities of the prehospital and hospital care systems at referral facilities.