triage

Triage is the systematic process of assessing and categorizing patients based on the urgency of their medical needs, particularly in high-stress environments such as mass casualty incidents. This process is essential for prioritizing treatment when resources are constrained, ensuring that those with life-threatening conditions receive immediate attention. Not to be confused with patient assessment, triage specifically focuses on the prioritization of care within frameworks like START or SALT, which guide responders in making rapid decisions.