Radiation disasters and emergency department preparedness.

There are few radiation disasters that have occurred worldwide. These events, however, give some insight as to the potential for theoretical radiation disaster events of the future. Some of our current fears, such as terrorist uses of radiation, currently have no historical basis for planning guidance. Hospital facilities should assess the potential for radiation accidents and potential radiation disaster scenarios when in the process of disaster planning. Preparation and training will lead to confidence and improved emergency management of potentially chaotic events.