Minneapolis hospital official: Currently treating 9 pediatric patients

Incident Overview - A mass shooting occurred at a Catholic church in Minneapolis, resulting in 17 injuries [1] - 11 patients were admitted to Hennepin County Medical Center, a level one trauma center [1][8] - Among those admitted, 7 patients were in critical condition, including children with gunshot wounds from a high-velocity weapon [1][2] Medical Response and Resources - The hospital's emergency medicine head described the situation as a mass casualty event, especially concerning due to the high-velocity weapon involved [3] - Damage control surgery is typically required in such events, involving bullet removal, bleeding control, and patient stabilization [5] - Blood donation is critical in mass casualty events to replenish blood supplies [5][6] - Level one trauma centers are equipped with specialized trauma surgeons and resources for handling severe injuries [8][10] - These centers have expertise in stabilizing patients, triaging, and performing damage control surgery [9][10] - Level one trauma centers usually have close proximity to or in-house blood banks to mobilize blood products [10] Bystander Actions - Bystanders should ensure their safety and alert authorities before attempting to help victims [7] - Checking for a pulse and ensuring an open airway are critical first steps in providing assistance [7] Weapon Impact - High-velocity weapons, such as semi-automatic rifles, cause more damage, inflammation, and organ dysfunction due to the velocity of the bullet [4]