CHEST Guidelines-Methodology

Methodology_chest

Pdf Summary

The "CHEST Consensus Statement," backed by the American College of Chest Physicians, addresses mass critical care during disasters and pandemics. This document provides crucial guidance for handling large numbers of critically ill or injured patients and is intended for practitioners, hospital administrators, public health officials, and government bodies.<br /><br />Given the lack of robust evidence in disaster medicine, the consensus statement was developed using a methodical approach centered on expert opinions, bypassing the strict standards typical in evidence-based guidelines. A diverse international panel of disaster medicine experts participated, identifying critical areas for discussion. These areas included business continuity, ethics, triage, and special populations, among others.<br /><br />In the absence of ample high-quality studies, the panel relied on lesser-quality observational data, literature reviews, expert testimony, and a structured Delphi consensus process to formulate 267 expert-opinion-based suggestions. The process was meticulous, involving systematic literature searches, consultations, and rigorous discussions with an emphasis on transparency and methodological rigor.<br /><br />External reviewers and multiple committees scrutinized the manuscripts for content and adherence to methodologies, ensuring reliability and relevance. These guidelines aim to be a reliable resource for those involved in disaster response, helping facilitate effective decision-making and care provision during crises.<br /><br />The consensus project, spanning several years and involving extensive international collaboration, highlights both the challenges of developing guidelines in an under-researched field such as disaster medicine and the importance of expert consensus when evidence is scarce. Endorsed by various organizations, the consensus statement stands as a critical document for guiding health care practices in emergency preparedness on a global scale.

Keywords

CHEST Consensus Statement

American College of Chest Physicians

mass critical care

disasters and pandemics

disaster medicine

expert opinions

Delphi consensus process

emergency preparedness

international collaboration

health care guidelines