Mass‑Casualty Readiness in a Lebanese Hospital

A recent review examined how well a large government hospital in Lebanon can handle big emergencies, focusing on the “Code Orange” plan—its official emergency response guide.

Key Findings

• Document Assessment
• The team cross‑checked the plan against international standards.

• Gaps identified: unclear departmental roles and missing training schedules.

• Staff Survey
• Doctors, nurses, and support staff were surveyed.
• Most understand what a mass casualty incident (MCI) is, but many are uncertain about specific procedures—especially during the first hour after a disaster.

Recommendations

1. Regular Drills

   • Conduct frequent, realistic exercises to build confidence and refine procedures.

2. Clear Communication Channels

   • Establish defined lines of authority and information flow for rapid decision‑making.

3. Plan Updates

   • Integrate new technologies for triage and patient tracking to streamline care.

Conclusion

While the hospital has a solid foundation, tightening its emergency plan and boosting staff training are essential to ensure safe, efficient care during large‑scale emergencies.