Introduction

In a bioterrorism event, hospital workers and others who care for victims have many potential sources of stress. As members of the public, they and their families have the same fears and responsibilities as any other people. As hospital workers, they may be at heightened risk for contracting the disease. As caregivers, they may experience “vicarious trauma” from empathetic listening to patients’ tales of grief, fear, and loss. As rescuers, they may face guilt and confusion if they are unable to save victims.