What information must be provided to the receiving hospital for a patient undergoing decontamination?

The requirement to state "DECON ALERT" alongside other specifics is crucial for effective communication when transferring a patient who has undergone decontamination. This alert informs the receiving hospital of the nature of the situation, allowing them to prepare adequately for the care and treatment of the patient. It signals that the patient may have been exposed to hazardous substances, which may necessitate special procedures and precautions on the part of the hospital staff to ensure safety and proper handling.

This information enables the hospital to activate the necessary protocols and allocate appropriate resources for dealing with potential contamination, thereby safeguarding both the healthcare team and other patients in the facility. The additional specifics mentioned would typically include details about the decontamination process itself, the substances involved, and any relevant symptoms exhibited by the patient, further assisting in the planning for their care.

In contrast, while a patient's medical history can be important, it is not as immediate or critical in the context of a decontamination alert. Similarly, the transporter’s route and the identity of the incident commander may have relevance in wider operational contexts but do not directly impact the urgent preparedness needed by the receiving hospital in response to a decontaminated patient.