[Catastrophe medicine. General principles].

Catastrophe medicine is the organization of masses under difficult conditions. The present article is concerned with the competence and organization in the event of a catastrophe and describes the phasic course of a catastrophe situation. The most important element of effective first aid measures, screening for shock and pain treatment, and first surgical treatment and the principles of ballistic factors are dealt with. Particular attention is given to the evacuation of emergency patients from the scene of the catastrophe. A request is made for " Catastrophe medicine" to be included by the medical faculties and educational institutes in their course of study for paramedical personnel.