NCJ Number
190327
Date Published
April 1999
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This document reviews a workshop that focuses on the decision-makers’ thought processes as a hypothetical biological emergency unfolds.
Abstract
The purpose of this workshop was to improve the Biological Warfare Response Template. The specific objectives of the workshop were defining key decisions that must be made to respond to a potential biological terrorist incident; identifying “triggers” or “flags” that could be used to guide decision-makers; and determining how a response would differ for an announced vs. unannounced attack scenario. Key decisions during an unannounced attack are determining that an unusual event has occurred, a major health event is occurring, the potential cause and population at risk, medical prophylaxis and treatment measures, and appropriate activation of the modular emergency medical system. Key decisions during an announced attack are determining credibility; activating the modular emergency medical system; and making a media release. The purpose of the Biological Warfare (BW) Decision Tree is to address who makes the decisions, the sequencing of the decisions, and the types of information that need to be developed and considered when making the decision. To validate the BW Decision Tree, a tabletop exercise for an unannounced anthrax attack on Baltimore City was conducted. The workshop participants concluded that development of the BW Decision Tree was a significant aid in identifying and tracking the difficult but necessary decisions that must be made during an ongoing large-scale medical emergency. Also, it was concluded that the BW Decision Tree was extremely helpful in providing a quick overview of the BW Response Template, facilitating its use, and understanding the rationale for why it was needed. 2 figures