Triage

What Is Triage?

Triage is the structured methodology for prioritizing patient care based on the severity of their conditions, particularly in scenarios such as mass casualty incidents. Utilizing systems like START (Simple Triage and Rapid Treatment), patients are categorized into immediate, delayed, minimal, and expectant groups to optimize resource allocation. Not to be confused with patient assessment, triage emphasizes the prioritization of treatment to ensure that critical patients receive timely care, especially in accordance with NIMS protocols. In EMS contexts, it is commonly framed alongside structured communication and triage concepts such as START (Simple Triage and Rapid Treatment) or SALT (Sort, Assess, Lifesaving interventions, Treatment/Transport) as shared terminology.

Why Triage Matters on the Fireground

Effective triage is essential in emergency medical services, as it significantly impacts patient outcomes and survival rates. By systematically directing resources to the most critically injured individuals, triage enhances the overall efficiency of emergency response operations and reduces the likelihood of preventable fatalities. Clear definitions improve handoffs, documentation clarity, and team alignment when multiple providers must prioritize tasks under time pressure.