Resource Optimization and Logistics Data Governance in Mass Casualty Incidents: A Review of Emergency Medical Services and Nursing Decision-Support Systems
Abstract
Background: Mass casualty incidents (MCIs) create immense strain on healthcare systems, requiring rapid, efficient mobilization of scarce resources. Effective coordination between field-based Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and receiving hospital nursing command is essential but often impeded by fragmented data systems.
Aim: This narrative review synthesizes literature on data-driven strategies and decision-support systems for optimizing MCI logistics, focusing on the EMS-nursing interface and the necessary data governance frameworks.
Methods: A thematic synthesis was conducted on peer-reviewed literature (2010-2024) from major databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, IEEE Xplore) using keywords related to mass casualty, resource management, decision-support, data governance, EMS, and nursing.
Results: The review identifies four key themes: 1) technological tools for real-time situational awareness; 2) predictive analytics for forecasting demand; 3) integrated decision-support systems for command decisions; and 4) foundational data governance models. Findings show a trend towards integrated dashboards and IoT-enabled tracking but reveal persistent gaps in system interoperability, governance protocols, and human-factor integration for high-stress deployment.
Conclusion: Optimal resource management in MCIs depends on interoperable, well-governed data systems that provide a shared operational picture. Advancing beyond technology to prioritize robust governance, standardized protocols, and human-centered design is crucial for transforming data into effective, ethical action that improves surge capacity and patient outcomes.
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Authors
Copyright (c) 2024 Ali Mohammed Ali Jabbari, Mousa Ahmed Aqeel Salhabi, Ali Shooy Ugdi, Khaled Hamad Alwan, Fawaz Shoei Hakami, Khaled Mossa Haqawi, Mohammed Ali Hazazi, Hussain Ali Jubran Shafei, Amnah Sayyaf Alanazi, Hanan Ashban Matar Al-Anzi
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