Which type of disaster event can typically be managed by an individual hospital's disaster plan?

The choice of a motor vehicle accident involving multiple cars reflects a type of disaster that is usually localized and can be effectively managed by an individual hospital's resources and disaster plan. Such incidents typically result in a number of injured individuals requiring medical attention, but they fall within the scope of what a hospital prepares for in everyday operations.

Hospitals generally have protocols for triaging patients in emergencies, and a multi-vehicle accident is a scenario that aligns with these procedures. The response often involves activation of the emergency department, deployment of on-call staff, and coordination with local emergency services, all of which are integral components of a hospital's disaster preparedness.

In contrast, the other scenarios present challenges that exceed the capacity of a single hospital's disaster plan. A small-scale chemical spill may be manageable by the hospital, but it often requires specialized hazmat teams and coordinated efforts with local agencies. An earthquake affecting multiple regions could overwhelm resources and necessitate a broader, regional response, involving multiple hospitals and emergency services. Similarly, a large-scale terrorist attack would likely require an integrated effort across various facilities and agencies to handle the influx of casualties and provide comprehensive care. Thus, while the motor vehicle accident can be managed within the framework of a single hospital's capabilities, the other