worst day, mass casualties

Nurses General Nursing

Published

Today was, quite honostly, the worst day I've ever had. Not because of management or the usual bull. A local factory exploded. It was a mass casualty incident.

I've seen and smelled things today no one should ever have to. We got 30 patients, although the news is only saying 22, I know, I was in the ambulance bay triaging as they came off the trucks. We flew out 13 who had approx. 90% burns to their bodies, the only parts not burnt were their feet because of thick work boots that were melted.

I am shell shocked right now, don't know whether to keep crying or get really drunk, and I am not even a drinker. For those of you who pray, I ask you put these people in your prayers, at least 7 will most likely die, these were good hardworking people, mothers, fathers, people just trying to make a living like us every day we clock in and go to work.

God bless the EMS and firefighters, my sister is a medic and 8 months pregnant. Her truck was first on scene. She followed her first instinct as a medic and immediately went in with her partner and pulled critical patients out of a burning building. Thank God she is ok, didn't have any injuries, today was the start of her maternity leave, too.

Again, I ask you pray for the many victims and their families, If you belong to a prayer chain, then put them and the emergency workers in it. These were images we will never get out of our heads , we just have to find a way to get through it.

Thanks.

I haven't seen the news today, so forgive my ignorance but

What part of Kentucky was this?

I pray for you and all of the victims. I am sorry to hear of such tragedies. I have many family members there in Barbourville. I see mention of London and Corbin. Not so far from my family.

Defib queen...if you need to talk, send me an email....I'll be hear for ya...we can even talk on the phone or in person if you just need to cry to objective shoulder. We gotta stick together and be here for each other. Sincerely,Melissa

Specializes in ED staff.

So sorry... never had to experience anything like that myself so I can offer no advice, just prayers.

Specializes in Med-Surg.

OMG--my mom's family is from Corbin. What an awful thing to have happen--and for you to have to see also. Sending prayers that way.

Specializes in Med/Surg.

I'm sorry you had to go through that...my prayers are going out to everybody involved.

Specializes in Critical Care.

How horrible, my thoughts and prayers are with all the patients, families, rescuers, doctors, and nurses. I can't imagine the horror of receiving 30 patients with such severe injuries.

(((Defib)))) My thoughts & prayers are going out to everyone & their families.

What a horrible thing to go through for all involved. I have to agree with sanacruz. Debrief. Talk and talk and talk!

My FIL worked through something similar and never talked about it and has terrible PTSD.

We are all here for you! Unload!

I'm sorry to hear such tragic news. Please be sure to talk with others about this situation. Even if it is just venting on the board. Do not internalize it.

You and your sister seem to blessings in your assistance to the community. While not every life may be saved... do consider the ones that you by your actions have indeed saved!!!!!!

No words can really take away the pain your entire community is facing right now. But do know that thoughts and prayers are out there for you. God Bless.

Specializes in Telemetry, Case Management.

DeFibQueen, Saw it on the news tonight at work, was watching it in a patient's room. Have been through there more than once and recognized the area it showed on tv. They were saying no one was dead, but when they started describing the injuries, I knew that wouldn't be true for long.

Bless your heart. I am so sorry you and your sister had to go through this, but hopefully you have been a help and a blessing to those who were hurt, and their loved ones.

Specializes in Perinatal/neonatal.

Hi R (defib queen),

What a day this has been....I'm sorry girl. I am praying for all of us right now...this has been devastating to this community because everybody knows everybody around here and it's hard to see anyone in pain. I was driving into school when I heard it on the radio this morning and I have had it on my mind all day. Thank GOD for those of you that were able to provide care and comfort. I, for one, hope that you never have to see what you did today again.

I am also going to say a prayer for your sister and I'm sending well wishes to you both...can't wait to hear about the new baby! (Due April 14th, right?)

All My Best,

~Angie

Mass casualties and burns....never a nice combination. Cry because you need to, and talk with others who have gone thru the same day with you. Your hospital should offer crisis intervention.....take advantage of it. Hugs.

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