decontamination. This is true even if a liquid agent is present. It is imperative to remember that in a mass casualty situation triage is essential to provide the greatest good to the greatest number of people. This means that some casualties will be beyond the treatment capabilities of the location. If these casualties can be stabilized without jeopardizing the mission of the treatment facility, they should be treated. Otherwise, treatment priority is to those who can be returned to duty the quickest.

Medical personnel must take all reasonable precautions to protect themselves while handling contaminated casualties. This means wearing full protective gear, including the mask and gloves.

Mass casualty decontamination and triage is discussed in the chapter of the HM 1 & C Rate Training Manual entitled “Medical Aspects of Chemical, Biological, and Radiological Defense.”