The Challenge of Allocating Scarce Medical Resources During a Disaster in a Low Income Country: A Case Study from the 2010 Haitian Earthquake
Journal Title: Palliative Medicine & Hospice Care – Open Journal - Year 2015, Vol 1, Issue 1
Abstract
Scarce medical resources during a natural disaster challenge the existing protocols for medical intervention. Triage decisions about which patient to care for can be extremely stressful for a medical team. This case analysis describes the experience of one mobile field hospital in Haiti in the aftermath of the January 12, 2010 earthquake. The medical team was confronted with the need to choose which of three critically ill patients should receive the remaining, dwindling oxygen supply. The ethical framework around these decisions is discussed. The development of an onsite ethics committee from team members is suggested to help lighten the burden of decision making off of the individual care provider.
Authors and Affiliations
Annekathryn Goodman
Keywords
Related Articles
- EP ID EP548623
- DOI 10.17140/PMHCOJ-1-105
- Views 248
- Downloads 0
Cultural Aspects of Palliative Cancer Care in Iran
Palliative care is a human need, which is essential for patients with chronic disorders such as cancer, and aims to prevent and relieve pain and improve the quality of life (QoL) of patients and their families. Since cul...
Cultural Challenges in Implementing Palliative Programs in Emerging Countries
Clinical approach of palliative care is beneficial during an individual’s journey with illness, and can be utilized through many care settings by all members of the health care team. Many complex cultural issues can affe...
Morphine Mouthwash in Oral Mucositis: A Mini Review
Oral mucositis is a frequent adverse effect of chemotherapy and radiation therapy in cancer patients. The mucositis impacts overall quality of life (QoL) by producing pain with variable intensity leading to difficulty in...
Spirituality and Religiosity During the Peri-Operative Period for Cancer Patients and their Family: An Integrative Systematic Review
Background: Religion and Spirituality (R/S) may influence cancer patient’s emotional distress, mental health and healing throughout their diagnosis and treatment. Objective: This systematic review examines studies explor...
Empowering Women Nurses Can Make a Difference
Women play an important role in the advancement of science, medicine, and health. The issue of gender is still a debatable item in many cultures and societies. However, despite remarkable advances in gender equality, the...