Bethesda, Md., December 10, 2010 — Saving lives after a radiological or nuclear incident depends on an understanding of the magnitude of the situation and the resources needed to properly manage casualties during the first 72 hours of an event. To that end, the Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute (AFRRI) published the third edition of its handbook Medical Management of Radiological Casualties. The information was prepared by Ronald E. Goans, PhD, MD, and edited by the AFRRI Military Medical Operations staff.

Victims of radiation events, according to the handbook, require prompt diagnosis and treatment of conventional medical and surgical conditions and must be triaged with attention also to radiation exposure estimations.

"The handbook is designed to be used by emergency responders and medical professionals who may have minimal knowledge of the effects of ionizing radiation on the human body," said COL Anthony B. Mickelson MC, USA, director of AFRRI Military Medical Operations. "The handbook provides the latest guidance on identifying the type of radiation involved and estimating the extent of exposure."

The 3.75- by 5.5-inch, spiral-bound, laminated handbook fits readily in a pocket. It provides tabs to topics that include acute radiation syndrome, biodosimetry, skin injury, internal contamination, psychological support, delayed effects, and decontamination. Charts and photos provide at-a-glance detail. U.S. Department of Defense personnel may request the handbook by e-mailing MEIR@afrri.usuhs.mil or calling 301-295-0316. Others can purchase the handbook from Quick Series at http://www.quickseries.com/cart/custom-store-ul.php?viewprod=120

The information also is available free of charge in the AFRRI Online Third Edition of the handbook as a PDF (portable document format) file via the AFRRI Web site at http://www.usuhs.mil/afrri/outreach/pdf/3edmmrchandbook.pdf.

AFRRI, marking its 50th anniversary, is the Department of Defense's primary resource for radiobiology research and expertise. A component of the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, AFRRI also supports medical and graduate education in radiobiology.