What is a Mass Casualty Incident (MCI)?

A Mass Casualty Incident (MCI) is defined as an event that produces more casualties than the resources available can adequately manage. This situation typically occurs during disasters or large-scale emergencies where the number and severity of injuries overwhelm standard emergency response capabilities. In such incidents, first responders may need to implement triage protocols to prioritize treatment based on the severity of injuries and the availability of medical assistance for those in need.

The definition encompasses a wide range of scenarios, including natural disasters, terrorist attacks, or significant accidents, where the scale of injury and disruption poses a serious challenge to the healthcare system and emergency services. Understanding this definition is crucial for effective emergency management and planning, as it allows agencies to prepare for and respond to situations that exceed normal operating procedures.

The other options do not accurately reflect the nature of an MCI. For instance, describing an event as affecting a small number of individuals or one resulting in manageable casualties does not align with the core characteristics of an MCI, which is about overwhelming the available resources. Additionally, while hazardous materials incidents can lead to mass casualties, they are not inherently synonymous with MCIs, making that option less specific in this context.