The zero responder: a definition and report of current literature

TL;DR

This paper defines 'zero responders' as people who help injured people during emergencies before professionals arrive and suggests ways to better integrate them into emergency response systems.

Contribution

The paper provides a revised definition of zero responders in medical settings and proposes strategies for their integration into emergency response frameworks.

Findings

A literature review identified 16 papers defining zero responders.

A revised definition is proposed to clarify their role in mass casualty incidents.

Recognition, equipment, and collaboration with ambulance services are needed to support zero responders.

Abstract

The term ‘zero responder’ was initially devised in 2010 to describe those passing by or unharmed in a mass casualty incident, who provide life-saving care for injured persons before qualified professionals arrive. This review aims to determine how the literature defines the role of the zero responder and to explore how they can be better integrated into the emergency response.

Current definitions of the zero responder in a medical setting were found through a literature search of several databases and online libraries using defined search terms. Additionally, a manual search of citations in included articles was performed to yield more results. In total, 16 papers defining the zero responder were included. These definitions were evaluated, and a revised definition was suggested to clarify the role in a medical setting relating to mass casualty incidents.

The role of the zero responder can be facilitated through authority recognition and adequate equipment provision. Familiarisation with the term and role of zero responders among ambulance services is essential for effective collaboration. Further research and clarity on the integration of these two groups is necessary to facilitate effective and safe working between them.