Medical services provided at the 1982 Southern Open Golf Tournament

Abstract

This study describes the medical services provided the players, players' families, caddies, Professional Golf Association (PGA) officials, tournament workers, and spectators during the 1982 Southern Open Golf Tour nament. One first aid center, staffed by one physician and one nurse, was available to approximately 12,000 people during the 7 day event. The facility was stocked with routine diagnostic and therapeutic supplies, as well as routine and emergency drugs. Of the 92 patients seen, only one, who presented with a seizure, required hospital management. Spectators accounted for 20% of the visits. The remaining visits were by the tourna ment population for acute care. It was concluded that additional orthopaedic supplies needed to be readily available. Additional emergency equipment and drugs are recommended. The available and needed supplies should provide a reference for stocking first aid stations at future similar outdoor events that attract large crowds with varied medical needs.