Module Details

DISASTER MEDICINE

ST0075

Course
DISASTER MEDICINE
Code
ST0075
Academic Year
2025/2026
Curriculum Year
2025/2026
Degree Programme
DISASTER AND HEALTH CRISIS MANAGEMENT
Curriculum
000 - CORSO GENERICO
Course coordinator
Lecturers
Credits
4
Lecture Hours
32
Scientific Disciplinary Sector (SSD)
MED/41 - Anaesthesiology
Course Type
Single-subject learning activity
Course Delivery
OBB - Obbligatoria
Year
1
Teaching period
Primo Semestre
Campus
VERCELLI
Teaching language
English
Course Contents
-Introduction to disaster medicine
-Prehospital response
-Triage
-Hospital response
-Primary care
Reference Texts
Disaster Medicine - Koening & Schulz (Book)
Learning Outcomes
The course aims to provide students with an in-depth understanding of medical disaster management. Objectives include knowledge of the fundamental principles of disaster management, the ability to assess critical situations, and preparation to respond effectively in emergency contexts.
Prerequisites
Structure and functions of health systems in one's own country (basic knowledge)
Teaching Methods
The module uses a combination of lectures, interactive workshops, practical simulations, and case study discussions. Students actively participate in field exercises and practical training sessions.
Additional Information
Students with physical disabilities, Learning Disabilities or Special Education Needs can request specific services and tools via the Staff Sviluppo e Coordinamento Carriere e Servizi alle Studentesse e agli Studenti, consulting the University webpage: https://www.uniupo.it/en/services/services-students-physical-or-learning-disabilities. Students with disabilities, learning disabilities or special education needs, once they have contacted the University Staff, can refer to the tutor in charge of the course to define the examination modalities, concerning academic aspects.
Assessment Methods
The exam is written and in-person, and consists of a quiz with multiple-choice questions. The final grade is expressed in thirtieths, and to pass the exam, a student must achieve at least 18/30. To pass the exam, students must demonstrate knowledge and understanding of at least the fundamental concepts of the subject. To achieve a passing grade, students must be familiar with the context of disaster and health crisis management, and be able to demonstrate acquisition of the relevant basic notions of disaster and health crisis management. To achieve a high grade, students must demonstrate complete mastery of the topics covered.
Detailed Syllabus
Introduction to disaster medicine:

Definition and classification of disasters
History and evolution of disaster medicine
Fundamental principles of disaster medical management

Prehospital response:

Planning and preparedness for prehospital emergencies
Command and control structures in the field
Rescue and initial stabilization techniques
Communication and coordination among first response teams

Triage:

Principles and objectives of triage
Triage systems and methods (START, SALT, etc.)
Practical implementation of triage in the field
Case studies and practical simulations

Hospital response:

Preparation and planning of hospital facilities
Organization of emergency departments during a disaster
Management of resources and hospital logistics
Emergency protocols for handling large influxes of patients

Primary care:

Role of primary care in disaster situations
Continuation of care for chronic conditions
Expected Learning Outcomes
Students will be able to:

Understand the principles and practices of disaster medicine.
Assess and respond quickly and effectively in emergency situations.
Implement triage and victim management strategies.
Coordinate relief operations with other agencies and organizations.
Last update:09-09-2026 00:14:31