Disaster Simulation

doi:10.1017/9781009279024.003

Chapter 2 - Disaster Simulation

The Best Way to Prepare for the Worst

from Section 1 - Introductory Chapters

Published online by Cambridge University Press: 06 February 2026

David Ruby

Edited by

Andrew Milsten and

John Broach

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Andrew Milsten: Affiliation:
University of Massachusetts Medical Center
John Broach: Affiliation:
University of Massachusetts Medical Center

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Summary

This chapter covers the use of simulation as a method of disaster response preparation. It addresses case creation, high-fidelity techniques, and execution of a large, live action disaster simulation. It discusses how to build out a case from planned objectives, as well as pairing debriefing points for after the case is finished. It also gives advice on how to retain optimal control over the case to help ensure it runs smoothly. It gives advice on logistics and case flow, avoiding common pitfalls in planning such drills, and proper communication between instructors during the drill. It discusses how to implement a twist into the case to further constrain resources available to the learners and how to integrate such twists into the case without disruption.

Keywords

disaster simulation preparation case writing high fidelity

Information

Type: Chapter
Information: Cases in Simulated Disaster Medicine , pp. 6 - 9
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/9781009279024.003 [Opens in a new window]
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2026

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References

Alexander, AJ, Bandiera, GW, Mazurik, L. A multiphase disaster training exercise for emergency medicine residents: opportunity knocks. Acad Emerg Med. 2005;12:404–409. doi:10.1197/j.aem.2004.11.025.CrossRef Google Scholar PubMed

Bennett, RL. Chemical or biological terrorist attacks: an analysis of the preparedness of hospitals for managing victims affected by chemical or biological weapons of mass destruction. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2006 Mar;3(1):67–75. doi:10.3390/ijerph2006030008. PMID: 16823078; PMCID: PMC3785681.CrossRef Google Scholar PubMed

Smith, S, Farra, SL, Hodgson, E. Evaluation of two simulation methods for teaching a disaster skill. BMJ Simul Technol Enhanc Learn. 2020 May 18;7(2):92–96. doi:10.1136/bmjstel-2019-000572. PMID: 35520385; PMCID: PMC8936753.Google Scholar PubMed

Gable, BD, Misra, A, Doos, DM, et al. Disaster day: a simulation-based disaster medicine curriculum for novice learners. J Med Educ Curric Dev. 2021 Jun 8;8:23821205211020751. doi:10.1177/23821205211020751. PMID: 34164580; PMCID: PMC8191058.CrossRef Google Scholar

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