A nursing guide to surviving a radiological dispersal device.

A radiological dispersion device, or 'dirty bomb', is created by combining radioactive material and conventional explosives with the aim of causing both blast injuries and the psychological fear of lingering radiation. Future use of such a device by terrorist organizations operating in the UK is not unlikely. Both surgical and accident and emergency nursing staff may become involved in the management of patients involved in this type of disaster. This article summarizes the likely sequence of events, defines the nursing tasks emergency department personnel can expect to become involved with, and highlights specific issues of personal safety for this disaster scenario. Up-to-date, accurate information, and skills and training in this type of event can not be underestimated. Nursing teams equipped with the appropriate safety and procedural skills are more likely to respond positively to this type of event. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]