Accidental Death and Disability: The Neglected Disease of Modern Society

Excerpt

During the past three years, Committees on Trauma, Shock, and Anesthesia, and special task forces of the Division of Medical Sciences, National Academy of Sciences–National Research Council, have reviewed with representatives of a large number of organizations the present status of initial care and emergency medical services afforded to the victims of accidental injury. These studies include reviews of ambulance services, voice communication systems, emergency departments and intensive care units of hospitals; appraisal of current research in shock, trauma, and resuscitation; revision of the first aid textbook for the American National Red Cross; preparation of a formal statement on cardiopulmonary resuscitation; and participation in disaster survey studies. A summary of these deliberations and a number of recommendations designed to reduce accidental death and disability are assembled in this paper.