Mass Casualty Triage and Early Stabilization Following a Bus Crash

This case presents a detailed scenario involving a mass casualty incident resulting from a bus crash during a snowstorm. The scenario unfolds at an academic hospital and trauma center where the emergency department is alerted to receive 15 to 20 victims of the crash. The chapter emphasizes the importance of mass casualty preparedness, activation of disaster response protocols, and the critical role of triage in managing incoming patients. The teaching objectives focus on utilizing the START triage system, assigning roles, and coordinating between emergency and ancillary teams such as trauma surgery and radiology. Learners are tasked with prioritizing lifesaving interventions, managing resources, and handling the emotional impact on family members. Through a combination of moulage, rapid assessments, and critical actions, this scenario challenges emergency care providers to maintain situational awareness, adapt to evolving conditions, and ensure optimal patient outcomes during high-stress, resource-limited situations.