Using the Service Regulation DV 100 to Organize the Hospital Incident Command System at University Hospital Heidelberg

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are exploring the organizational structure of the Hospital Incident Command System ICS using the Service Regulation DV 100, a continental staff system-based approach recommended by the German Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance. This study aims to provide new insights into how this system functions within hospitals, focusing on communication and transition processes during emergencies. The study addresses a gap in scientific evidence about ICS functionality in hospital settings. The study involves University Hospital Heidelberg staff who may be involved in the hospital incident command system. It is an observational study with no interventions, focusing on staff experiences during a table-top exercise scheduled for May 26 and 27, 2025. The exercise will simulate the transition from routine operations to emergency situations using the DV 100 framework. Participants will be observed during the exercise to assess leadership communication, training effects, operational confidence, and communication behaviors within command functions. Researchers will also evaluate the advantages and challenges of using the structured ICS model. The study includes semi-structured interviews with consenting employees and aims to gather qualitative data on the ICSs applicability and participant experiences. The study runs until October 31, 2026.

DV 100 as a Framework for the Hospital Incident Command System