Jaundice is a clinical manifestation characterized by the yellowish pigmentation of the skin and sclerae, resulting from elevated levels of bilirubin in the bloodstream. This condition may signal various underlying pathologies, including hepatic dysfunction, biliary obstruction, or hemolytic disorders. Not to be confused with other forms of skin discoloration, jaundice specifically indicates a disruption in bilirubin metabolism and excretion, which is critical for patient assessment during triage in emergency medical situations. 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.
Category context: Patient care, assessment, interventions, triage, and EMS system terms commonly used by firefighter/medics.