Disaster reanimatology potentials : A structured interview study in Armenia : I. Methodology and preliminary results

ABSTRACT

In general preparations for disasters which result in mass casualties do not incorporate a modern resuscitation approach. WE explored the life-saving potencial of and time limits for life-supporting first aid (LSFA), advanced trauma life support (ATLS) resuscitative surgery, and prolonged life support, Following the earthquake in Armenia on 7 december 1988. We used a structured retrospective interview method applied previously to evaluation of emergency medical services (EMS) in the United States. A total of 120 survivors of and participants in the earthquake in Armenia were interviewed on site (49 lay eyewitnesses, 20 search-search-rescue personnel, 39 medical personnel and records and 12 administrators).