On June 12, 2016 the Level One Trauma Center at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC), just blocks away from Pulse, was prepared and ready to handle the unimaginable, and care for those in their most extreme time of need. With the rapid influx of patients – the first 36 in 36 minutes – the trauma bays and patient beds within the Emergency Department quickly filled. The incredible teamwork of our dedicated physicians, nurses, and staff gave each victim their highest chance at survival and recovery – every victim who made it to our Operating Rooms survived.
Increasing Surge Capacity within the Region’s Only Level One Trauma Center
We have evaluated the lessons learned from that tragic event to be even more prepared should another mass casualty incident occur. It is clear we need greater ability to “surge” for a rapid influx of patients within the Trauma Bay. The expanded Trauma Bay will also provide significant surge space, allowing us to rapidly add 10 more treatment areas in a mass casualty situation, whether a car accident on I-4, a fire-related incident, or other tragedy.
This space will also help manage the flow of patients and resources in times of critical need while making it easier for members of our trauma team to move quickly between patients.