Citation

Luther M, Gardiner F, Lenson S, Caldicott D, Harris R, Sabet R, Malloy M, Perkins J. Prehosp. Disaster Med. 2018; 33(2): 220-224.

Affiliation

St John Ambulance (ACT),Canberra,Australian Capital Territory,Australia.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2018, Cambridge University Press)

DOI

10.1017/S1049023X18000195

PMID

29560844

Abstract

Specific Event Identifiers a. Event type: Outdoor music festival. b. Event onset date: December 3, 2016. c. Location of event: Regatta Point, Commonwealth Park. d. Geographical coordinates: Canberra, Australian Capital Territory (ACT), Australia (-35.289002, 149.131957, 600m). e. Dates and times of observation in latitude, longitude, and elevation: December 3, 2016, 11:00-23:00. f. Response type: Event medical support. Abstract Introduction Young adult patrons are vulnerable to risk-taking behavior, including drug taking, at outdoor music festivals. Therefore, the aim of this field report is to discuss the on-site medical response during a music festival, and subsequently highlight observed strategies aimed at minimizing substance abuse harm.

METHOD: The observed outdoor music festival was held in Canberra (Australian Capital Territory [ACT], Australia) during the early summer of 2016, with an attendance of 23,008 patrons. First aid and on-site medical treatment data were gained from the relevant treatment area and service.

RESULTS: The integrated first aid service provided support to 292 patients. Final analysis consisted of 286 patients' records, with 119 (41.6%) males and 167 (58.4%) females.

RESULTS from this report indicated that drug intoxication was an observed event issue, with 15 (5.1%) treated on site and 13 emergency department (ED) presentations, primarily related to trauma or medical conditions requiring further diagnostics.

CONCLUSION: This report details an important public health need, which could be met by providing a coordinated approach, including a robust on-site medical service, accepting intrinsic risk-taking behavior. This may include on-site drug-checking, providing reliable information on drug content with associated education. Luther M , Gardiner F , Lenson S , Caldicott D , Harris R , Sabet R , Malloy M , Perkins J. An effective risk minimization strategy applied to an outdoor music festival: a multi-agency approach.

Language: en

Keywords

pharmacy; 4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine; ACT: Australian Capital Territory; ED: emergency department; FAQ: frequently asked question; MDMA: 3; education; emergency medicine; festival; first aid; risk reduction behavior