Wildfires have posed a historic danger in California, and they are projected to increase throughout the state due to current climate conditions. To help Rady Children’s Hospital in the San Diego better prepare for the wide range of risks associated with wildfire outbreaks, Julia Bathen, Kelsey Patterson, and Tiffanie Sims have developed an emergency response plan.
The Rady Children’s Hospital Emergency Response Plan outlines protocols for various emergency departments in the event of a wildfire emergency. The plan emphasizes monitoring procedures while a wildfire is active, such as watching the air quality index (AQI). Preparation for wildfires is also a consideration, such as designating hospital beds to accommodate potential increases in adult and child patients suffering from respiratory issues during a wildfire. With the outlined plan in place, Rady Children’s Hospital will be able to improve its overall response effectiveness.