Orthopedic Activity in Field Hospitals Following Earthquakes in Nepal and Haiti

Abstract

The reasons for the variability in activities between the two hospitals include the magnitude of the disaster, the functionality of the local medical system which was relatively preserved in Nepal and destroyed in Haiti and the mode of operation which was independent in Haiti and collaborative with a functioning local hospital in Nepal. Emergency medical teams (EMTs) may encounter variable caseloads despite similar disaster scenarios. Advance knowledge of the magnitude of the disaster, the functionality of the local medical system, and the collaborative possibilities will help in planning and preparing EMTs to function optimally and appropriately. However, as this information will often be unavailable, EMTs should be capable to adapt to unexpected conditions.