Planning for major burns incidents by implementing an accelerated Delphi technique

Objective: This paper presents a series of practical guides for use in planning and responding to a major incident involving large numbers of burns casualties. Method: The guidance is based on the findings of an expert Delphi study published as an accompanying paper. Results: The guidance covers preparation and all aspects of the response from prehospital care and hospital care to resolution recovery. Emphasis is placed on the management of the secondary/tertiary care interface as this is the point at which significant difficulties may arise. The importance of local interpretation of guidelines is emphasised. Conclusion: This practical guide for emergency planners will improve the preparation and response to a major incident involving burns. (C) 2002 Published by Elsevier Science Ltd and ISBI.