Development of the Aerial Remote Triage System using drones in mass casualty scenarios: A survey of international experts

Abstract

The use of drones for triage in mass-casualty incidents has recently emerged as a promising technology. However, there is no triage system specifically adapted to a remote usage. Our study aimed to develop a remote triage procedure using drones. The research was performed in three stages: literature review, the development of a remote triage algorithm using drones and evaluation of the algorithm by experts. Qualitative synthesis and the calculation of content validity ratios were done to achieve the Aerial Remote Triage System. This algorithm assesses (in this order): major bleeding, walking, consciousness and signs of life; and then classify the injured people into several priority categories: priority 1 (red), priority 2 (yellow), priority 3 (green) and priority * (violet). It includes the possibility to indicate save-living interventions to injured people and bystanders, like the compression of bleeding injuries or the adoption of the recovery position. The Aerial Remote Triage System may be a useful way to perform triage by drone in complex emergencies when it is difficult to access to the scene due to physical, chemical or biological risks.

Unmanned aerial vehicles and pre-hospital emergency medicine

“…This may easily detect mobile casualties [ 55 ] but more advanced techniques may also be able to detect more subtle signs of life in immobile victims [ 63 ]. Remote triage algorithms to complement standard triage techniques have been developed and the overall concept has been welcomed by experienced clinicians [ 64 ]. New methods of triage are a rapidly evolving area of major incident management and the incorporation of remote techniques utilising UAVs are likely to be an important addition to triage capability.…”

Logistic Red Flags in Mass-Casualty Incidents and Disasters: A Problem-Based Approach

“…27 Incidents involving the release of CBRN substances add complexity to the accessibility because of the need for area securement, decontamination from toxic materials, and the use of adequate personal protective equipment (PPE). 28 The use of drones in MCIs 29 has recently emerged as a promising technology for both remote triage 30 and first aid equipment delivery. 31…”

Impact of Using Drones in Emergency Medicine: What Does the Future Hold?

“…71 Álvarez-Garcia et al developed an aerial remote triage system. 74 Drones with loudspeakers can also address crowds, such as directing them to safety or to perform behaviors directed by emergency personnel staff. 75 One such application may be for direction of mass decontamination in chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) disasters.…”