What is the purpose of a "mass casualty plan" in a CBRN response?

A "mass casualty plan" in a CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear) response serves the critical purpose of allocating resources effectively for treating a large number of injured individuals. In the context of a CBRN incident, where there may be a sudden influx of casualties, the plan is designed to optimize the use of available medical personnel, equipment, and facilities. This ensures that those who are most in need of immediate medical assistance receive appropriate care without overwhelming the healthcare system.

The plan typically includes triage protocols, which prioritize treatment based on the severity of injuries, and delineates responsibilities among responders. By having a structured approach, the mass casualty plan enhances the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the response, ensuring that care is provided in a timely manner to save lives.

Other options, such as managing public relations, ensuring equal training for responders, or tracking inventory of medical supplies, while important in their own right, do not directly address the immediate and critical need to effectively mobilize resources for patient care during a mass casualty event. Thus, the primary focus of a mass casualty plan is to ensure a coordinated and efficient medical response in the face of overwhelming needs.