Rescue workers' reactions following the hyatt hotel disaster

Abstract

The collapse of the skywalks at the Hyatt-Regency Hotel in Kansas City was one of the most traumatic man-made disasters in this country's history. The workers and volunteers who participated in the rescue activities were exposed to numerous stressors that made them at risk for physical and emotional sequelae. The purpose of this study was to describe the physical and emotional reactions and the help-seeking behaviors of these rescue workers. Findings support the need for more primary prevention services for rescure workers.