What's Happening?
United Hatzalah's Psychotrauma and Crisis Response Unit was deployed to a daycare center in Jerusalem's Romema neighborhood following a tragic event involving children. The incident, initially reported as a cardiac arrest, escalated to multiple unresponsive
children, prompting concerns of a toxic threat. United Hatzalah provided psychological first aid to parents and children, addressing basic needs and preventing the onset of PTSD. The response included evacuating the daycare, providing warmth and privacy, and using a WhatsApp-based system to reunite parents with their children. The organization emphasized the importance of cultural fluency in managing the crisis effectively.
Why It's Important?
The response by United Hatzalah highlights the critical role of psychological first aid in crisis situations, particularly in preventing long-term psychological effects like PTSD. The incident underscores the need for rapid, culturally sensitive interventions in emergencies, which can significantly impact the well-being of affected families. The approach taken by United Hatzalah could serve as a model for similar organizations worldwide, emphasizing the importance of addressing both physical and psychological needs during crises.
