Having experienced the 2001 anthrax incidents, we are now very much aware of its lethal potential. This course not only introduces the reader to the disease but covers the various types and what signs and symptoms to look for once it enters the body. Diagnosis, treatment, and prevention are also discussed.

A bioterrorist event should activate an effective overall response plan in a healthcare or hospital facility in order to manage resources and allow the facility to provide the best services possible under extraordinary circumstances. Students will learn to recognize the signs of a bioterrorist event. Federal, State, and local response agencies/programs will be discussed to promote awareness of sources for rapid support and supplementing of facility resources and staff. Recommendations on communication, logistics, psychological aspects, laboratory support, decontamination, post-mortem, and a variety of other subjects are also covered.

The 911 attacks, Oklahoma City bombing and the 2001 anthrax incidents put emergency responders into new roles. Large scale campaigns, long in duration and presenting a wide array of unusual hazards are currently challenging responders methods and equipment. Students will learn what worked and what failed and have the opportunity to better prepare and protect themselves when responding to future incidents. Disaster/crime scene management and the application of PPE in terrorist disaster sites is discussed.

The important responsibility of the proper handling of the dead following large scale disasters requires coordinated action from many different professionals. Students will gain an excellent understanding of the preparation required for good medicolegal work. Approach and execution will be discussed with materials, transportation, communications, PPE, equipment and vital basic resources required. Handling, identification, preservation, removal, and disposition of remains and related material are covered. An awareness of disaster scene procedures and management as well as preserving and documenting evidence in support of subsequent investigations is also discussed. Recommendations on work site organization and operation are presented.

Approximately 11,000 Americans experience a spinal cord injury each year. Students will receive an excellent overview including a discussion on signs, symptoms, and causes. Readers will gain an increased awareness of this injury through discussions on complications, treatments, and preventative measures. Recommended methods of assisting someone suspected of a spinal cord injury are also presented.